The growth of the trade sector and globalization have led to the establishment of import and export departments and related business branches. The import and export department consists of individuals who create regular plans and charts to carry out international trade activities, establish the necessary connections for product transactions with foreign countries, and deliver schedules to the business in general. The department, which maintains constant contact with foreign entities, undertakes all tasks regarding product and customer tracking. In the import section, it deals with necessary payments by discussing contracts and product pricing with foreign partners. It organizes financial tracking of the products to be purchased and necessary discussions with foreign firms. The export section of the department is responsible for elements related to the sale of the company's products abroad. Individuals in the export department price the products and monitor payments received from international connections.

Overall, it can be said that the import and export department is responsible for the company's international operations. Global movements are always monitored in this department, and work is done to make necessary strategic decisions based on developments in foreign trade. The import and export department offers the most beneficial options for the business to stand out in the face of global competition.

How to Establish an Export Department?

Like any department, the export department needs to be established according to certain planning. Having qualified, industry-aware personnel who are well-versed in foreign trade would be a good starting point for such an overseas and world-focused department. While experience in foreign trade is a significant advantage for those who will work in the export department, there are many factors that non-experienced personnel can learn quickly. Therefore, instead of experience, adaptability to global standards should be prioritized. Additionally, the number of personnel is another important factor in the export department. To manage various topics such as product tracking, payment controls, customs regulations, and marketing methods, several foreign trade personnel working under the supervision of a manager are needed. The export department, where qualified personnel work well together with the correct division of labor, elevates your company's foreign trade image and transforms it into a globally competitive business.

Of course, the division of labor should be done equally and separately; however, in general, the team should work in harmony with each other and manage joint projects. Proper job planning in this regard is of utmost importance. The team leader must closely monitor their personnel and be able to handle potential problems. In this context, having long years of experience in the sector will facilitate the work. Additionally, team members supporting each other within the team is one of the first stages of achieving successful projects. Foreign trade is, in fact, a whole made up of smaller parts; therefore, it is important for the export department to work as a cohesive unit that brings together its components.

Who Comprises the Import and Export Department?

The import and export department should consist of individuals who are knowledgeable about foreign trade, keep up-to-date with global developments, and strengthen foreign connections. These individuals should be carefully selected for work and placed in the correct work groups. The relevant job branches comprise several groups and serve as puzzle pieces that complete the team.

The personnel in the import and export department can be listed as import and export manager, operations specialist, operations staff, assistant specialist, manager, director, and supervisor. These personnel form a team by completing projects according to their divisions of responsibility. The import and export department is essentially a whole made up of these personnel.

What are the Job Descriptions of Personnel in the Import and Export Department?

Personnel working in the import and export department can engage in various tasks. While the tasks undertaken by working groups may vary, foreign trade activities are generally carried out in this department. The tasks and responsibilities of personnel working in this department are as follows:
● Import-Export Responsible: This personnel is responsible for preparing the necessary contracts for the execution of import and export operations and collecting the relevant documents. They should generally monitor the operation and deal with any issues within their competence. This person must have a good level of foreign language proficiency and be able to communicate with customers. They should also be aware of foreign trade regulations to use business channels effectively.
● Operations Specialist: The primary duty of the operations specialist is to closely monitor the transportation of products abroad or to the company. They are responsible for following up the process from the moment the imported product leaves abroad until it arrives at the company and resolving any issues that arise. If the operations specialist is the export manager, they should closely oversee the process of the product reaching the customer. They should manage the transportation and receiving process of the product in cooperation with supporting staff. The operations specialist should have an analytical perspective and possess advanced planning and communication skills.
● Operations Staff: The operations staff works under the operations specialist. They are generally on the field to carry out tasks and are directly connected to the customer.
● Assistant Specialist: The assistant specialist is a personnel involved in the research, examination, and preparation aspects of the work. They are responsible for reporting necessary information to their superiors based on the examinations and analyses they conduct. When necessary, assistant specialists can represent the specialist in every department.
● Manager: Managers in the scope of import and export oversee the smooth progress of foreign trade activities and the company's logistics process. The Import-Export Manager establishes international connections and communicates with customers. They are also responsible for ensuring communication between managers and personnel, as well as team order, and should be able to monitor all foreign trade-related tasks.
● Director: The director is responsible for managing the department as a whole and overseeing the dynamics among the team. Directors who plan and conduct research can work in every department.
● Supervisor: Supervisors, known as personnel supervisors, generally handle the staff's files and rights. They are responsible for making arrangements regarding legal processes and personal rights, ensuring that the department conducts its operations in a disciplined and healthy manner.

How to Become an Employee in the Import and Export Department?

If you graduate from relevant departments at universities, you can start your career in import-export departments. Generally, individuals studying in the International Trade department can assume many roles in this department. Additionally, people who have graduated from business, international relations, foreign trade, and economics departments can also start working in import-export departments. Research shows that 55% of individuals graduating from these departments work in import-export jobs.

What is the Salary Scale in Import and Export Departments?

Salaries in the import and export department may vary depending on personnel and their duties. While the salaries of department managers can range from the minimum wage up to 15,550 TL, this amount may increase further in certain positions. Generally, salaries can start around 7,000 TL and increase up to 20,000 TL.