International Forest Products (UK) is one of the world’s largest forest products commodities traders and a global leader in the paper and packaging industry. As a subsidiary of the Kraft Group of Companies, IFP has a diverse heritage spanning sports and entertainment, real estate, paper & packaging, and global forest product trading.
Operating from its headquarters in Foxborough, Massachusetts, and supported by a worldwide network of offices and exclusive sales representatives, IFP is ranked as the fifth largest exporter in the United States. With around 5,000 employees globally, we embody the philosophy of "think global, act local" in everything we do.
About the Role – A New and Exciting Growth Opportunity
This newly created and highly autonomous role offers the rare chance to support a Sales Manager based in Italy as they work to expand and strengthen our presence in the Italian market. You will play a critical part in opening new commercial pathways, acting as a bridge between high-volume export logistics and the specific cultural, regulatory, and communication requirements of doing business in Italy.
This is an opportunity for someone with a growth mindset, strong commercial awareness, and a collaborative communication style to make a meaningful impact. You’ll build relationships with key stakeholders, contribute to the development of the Italian export pipeline, and enjoy genuine scope for progression as the region grows.
Key Responsibilities
*Preparing, reviewing, and processing all export documentation, including sales orders, purchase orders, commercial invoices, packing lists, bills of lading, and customs declarations, with complete accuracy and compliance with Italian and wider European regulations.
*Arranging transportation with freight forwarders, shipping lines, and carriers, including rate negotiation, booking cargo space, and managing high-volume shipments.
*Ensuring strict adherence to international trade laws, customs procedures, and export control regulations, including the correct application of HS codes and Incoterms 2020.
*Acting as the central point of communication for the Italy-based Sales Manager, internal teams (sales, finance, logistics), and a wide network of external stakeholders. This includes managing the cultural and operational nuances of communication across Italy and Europe.
*Managing an order book in collaboration with the UK sales team, ensuring customer and supplier requirements are met consistently.
*Monitoring shipment progress, proactively identifying issues, and resolving delays or discrepancies during transit or customs clearance.
*Managing translations and Italian-language communication, ensuring accurate handling instructions and clear interaction with customers, partners, and authorities.
*Maintaining well-organised records of all export transactions and producing shipping and performance reports for internal use.
Key Skills & Experience
*Fluent Italian: Essential for handling documentation, calls, and stakeholder communication.
*Export Expertise: Proven experience exporting out of Italy, with a strong understanding of related regulations and best practices.
*Commercial Awareness: Able to support market development and understand the wider commercial impact of logistics decisions.
*Growth Mindset: Eager to learn, contribute ideas, and grow with an expanding territory.
*Collaborative Communication Style: Skilled at building effective relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
*Organisational Strength: Highly structured, with the ability to manage high-volume, fast-moving shipment schedules.
*IT Proficiency: Comfortable with ERP systems (such as SAP or Oracle) and Microsoft Office.
*Attention to Detail: Critical for maintaining accurate documentation and preventing costly errors.
Location & Travel
This role offers flexible working and can be performed from anywhere in the UK. Monthly in-person meetings in Newbury will be required, along with occasional travel to Italy.
Compensation: c: £45,000 + 20 days holiday + public holidays + pension + growth opportunity