Strategic Supply Chain Leader with over 15 years of distinguished success in transforming Procurement, Logistics, Inventory Management, and Category Management into agile, cost-effective, and future-ready functions. Recognized for driving operational excellence, I go beyond managing processes - I cultivate systems that foster performance, innovation, and sustainable growth. Backed by a solid foundation in technical expertise and commercial insight, I have consistently delivered significant cost savings, expanded operational capacity, and guided teams to surpass performance targets in dynamic and high-pressure environments. My leadership approach combines decisive execution with data-informed strategy, underpinned by a thorough understanding of customs regulations and compliance frameworks. From optimizing multi-regional supply chains and securing critical contracts to maximizing inventory value, I bring clarity, strategic foresight, and momentum to every initiative. Resilient under pressure and collaborative by nature, I excel at turning complex challenges into opportunities - driving both immediate impact and long-term value for the organizations I serve.
Overview
25
years of professional experience
1
Certification
Work History
Post Fiji (PTE) Limited
Suva
Team Leader Logistics Operations
05.2023 - Current
Job overview
Spearhead the end-to-end logistics and supply chain operations across 58 postal stations nationwide, driving service efficiency, timely replenishment, and alignment with national distribution strategies.
Lead procurement and logistics coordination for 59 retail outlets Fiji-wide, ensuring seamless stock movement, optimized replenishment cycles, and strategic sourcing aligned with operational needs.
Deliver robust inventory forecasting and cost-benefit analysis, minimizing variances and enhancing accuracy in stock reconciliation, significantly reducing discrepancies and operational waste.
Compile and present high-level inventory audit reports to the Board's Audit Subcommittee, providing strategic insights and actionable recommendations to reinforce internal controls and compliance.
Successfully negotiated and managed third-party logistics (3PL) agreements, ensuring optimal balance between service quality, regulatory compliance, and cost efficiency.
Champion continuous improvement initiatives and data-driven decision-making to streamline logistics workflows and elevate supply chain resilience in a dynamic and fast-paced environment.
Empowered team members by delegating responsibilities according to individual strengths and areas of expertise.
Managed conflict resolution among team members, fostering a positive and collaborative work environment.
Set performance expectations for the team, monitoring progress towards goals and providing constructive feedback as needed.
Pacific Blue Star
Majuro
Stock & Customs Manager
11.2019 - 12.2022
Job overview
Managed retail operations, category management, and customer service while overseeing import consignments Logistics, Costings and Customs clearance from the USA, Philippines, China, and India.
Directed end-to-end management of retail operations, category planning, and customer service, while orchestrating the import logistics, costing, and customs clearance of consignments from strategic international suppliers across the USA, Philippines, China, and India.
Led the import supply chain process, ensuring smooth coordination between sourcing, freight forwarding, customs brokerage, and final delivery to retail outlets - all while maintaining strict adherence to regulatory standards and documentation accuracy.
Drove stock turnover improvement by implementing data-informed marketing strategies, synchronizing efforts with procurement and sales teams, and optimizing SKU performance based on sales velocity and margin analysis.
Spearheaded customs compliance initiatives, ensuring full alignment with local and international trade regulations while proactively identifying opportunities to reduce import costs and enhance gross margins.
Conducted regular pricing reviews and profitability analysis to support effective pricing strategies and inventory movement, enabling faster sell-through and minimizing stock aging.
Played a pivotal role in strengthening cross-functional collaboration, enhancing operational visibility, and aligning inventory levels with demand patterns to improve overall retail efficiency and financial performance.
Implemented innovative training programs for staff, resulting in increased knowledge and expertise in customs management.
Optimized internal processes to maximize efficiency in the handling of import/export documentation and related tasks.
Coordinated closely with various departments to ensure alignment between company objectives and customs requirements throughout import/export processes.
Conducted thorough audits of company''s customs activities to identify areas for improvement and ensure full compliance with regulations.
Collaborated with supply chain partners to ensure seamless movement of goods across international borders, minimizing costly delays.
Streamlined customs processes by implementing efficient procedures and documentation standards.
Designed comprehensive risk assessment strategies for potential trade issues, mitigating financial impact on the organization.
Championed the use of technology in customs management processes, resulting in increased efficiency and resource optimization.
Developed strong relationships with government agencies, facilitating smoother customs transactions and issue resolution.
Managed complex customs operations for successful product clearance, ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations.
Reduced import/export delays through proactive monitoring of regulatory changes and timely communication with stakeholders.
Spearheaded initiatives to streamline classification process of imported products, reducing errors and improving accuracy.
Negotiated favorable agreements with freight forwarders and carriers, achieving cost savings while maintaining service levels.
Performed rigorous analysis of company''s duty spend, identifying opportunities for cost reduction through tariff engineering or other strategies.
Assisted in developing global trade strategy by providing expert insights on tariff rates, quotas, and other trade-related matters affecting business decisions.
Led cross-functional teams in resolving complex customs-related challenges, resulting in expedited clearance times for critical shipments.
Established effective record-keeping systems to maintain accurate documentation needed for compliance purposes during audits or inspections.
Drove continuous improvement initiatives within the customs department by analyzing performance metrics and implementing best practices.
Provided timely and accurate customs-related advice to internal stakeholders, mitigating potential risks and ensuring compliance with all regulations.
Lawfully cleared merchandise through customs per client and government requirements.
Stayed abreast of regulatory changes impacting customs enforcement and other import-impacted agencies.
Determined harmonized tariff classifications by referencing tariff schedules outlined by national and international government officials.
Calculated daily exchange rates and taxes due for goods and commodities.
Lead facilitator for customer issue resolution related to service performance and cargo issues.
Verified rejected cargo and advised on steps to take for avoiding repeat denial.
Tracked and monitored incoming transportation weight and volume forecast data for accuracy.
Provided colleagues and direct reports with management and performance reviews.
Identified and gathered commercial and international data, documents and rulings upon clients' requests.
Maintained customer bond and power of attorney records in case of emergencies.
Provided expert advice on Custom laws, describing government requirements for transporting imported goods.
Prepared and processed import and export documentation according to customs regulations, laws or procedures.
Tracked shipments processing through customs and other agencies and obtained clearances.
Maintained open communication with customers and overseas partners to update all parties on order and shipping changes.
Developed and maintained relationships with customs brokers, freight forwarders and customers.
Advised customers on transportation options, types of carriers or shipping routes.
Obtained necessary import and export licenses and permits for shipments.
Coordinated with shipping and transport companies on behalf of clients.
Prepared and submitted Harmonized Tariff Schedules (HTS) codes to US Customs.
Pacificomm New Zealand (PTE) Limited
National Sales Representative - Samsung
01.2018 - 10.2019
Job overview
Collaborated closely with Samsung Electronics New Zealand to execute nationwide channel briefs, ensuring strict adherence to Samsung's global retail and compliance standards across all major dealership and retail partners in Fiji, including Vodafone Fiji PTE Limited, Digicel Fiji, Tappoos Fiji Limited, and Value Fones.
Successfully drove retail and trade compliance initiatives, overseeing in-store execution, branding, promotional alignment, and team training, resulting in elevated brand consistency and enhanced customer experience across key retail channels.
Spearheaded sales and marketing campaigns for Samsung's mobile, tablet, wearables, and vision product categories - delivering high-impact product training to front-line retail staff, improving product knowledge, and increasing engagement and conversion at point of sale.
Played a strategic role in market intelligence and competitor analysis, supplying real-time insights via Samsung's MCS (Market Communication System) platform to inform forecasting accuracy, product positioning, and inventory planning from Fiji to Samsung NZ regional teams.
Contributed directly to market share growth in Fiji by enhancing partner compliance, sales, and aligning retail performance with Samsung's regional commercial objectives.
Led end-to-end inventory operations, ensuring full compliance with company protocols, optimizing stock accuracy, and consistently achieving monthly KPIs tied to line planning, production schedules, and supply chain alignment.
Spearheaded a comprehensive job evaluation initiative, identifying performance gaps and workflow inefficiencies, which directly resulted in operational improvements, streamlined team structures, and a fast-track promotion within seven months.
Played a key role in aligning inventory systems with production demand, enhancing forecast reliability and material availability while reducing stockouts and excess holding.
Coordinated dispatching of 3PLdrivers to accomplish daily delivery requirements.
Seeto Kui Holdings Limited
POM
Supply & Distribution Manager
11.2012 - 12.2014
Job overview
Conducted inventory control and implemented Capacity building training programs to enhance operational standards.
Managed Supply Chain Purchasing, Costing, Inventory and central distribution operations, logistics, and security for high-risk deliveries and routes.
Directed inventory operations, ensuring compliance with protocols and achieving monthly KPIs pertaining to Line plans and production schedules.
Initiated a job evaluation exercise leading to improved efficiency and a promotion within seven months.
Collaborated with cross-functional teams to optimize warehouse layout and improve product handling procedures.
Trained and mentored staff members in best practices for supply distribution management operations.
Established key performance indicators to monitor team productivity, driving continuous improvement initiatives.
Maintained compliance with all relevant industry regulations governing the storage and distribution of goods.
Spearheaded efforts towards sustainable practices in packaging material selection, reducing environmental impact from waste generation.
Coordinated customer orders, ensuring on-time delivery while minimizing shipping costs.
Evaluated vendor performance regularly, identifying areas for improvement and addressing issues proactively.
Reduced order processing time with the adoption of advanced inventory management software.
Implemented robust demand forecasting models for accurate inventory planning and replenishment.
Conducted regular inventory audits to identify discrepancies and implement corrective actions swiftly.
Improved supply chain efficiency by streamlining processes and implementing organizational changes.
Optimized warehouse space utilization by designing efficient storage solutions that maximized available capacity.
Led process improvement projects that contributed to higher levels of customer satisfaction and retention rates.
Promoted a safety-first culture within the warehouse environment, reducing workplace accidents and injuries.
Developed and executed procurement strategies to ensure a reliable supply of necessary materials.
Analyzed transportation options, selecting carriers that provided the best balance of cost, speed, and reliability.
Managed supplier relationships, negotiating contracts for cost savings and timely deliveries.
Oversaw budgets for purchasing supplies, labor costs, equipment maintenance> ensuring proper allocation of resources while meeting fiscal goals.
Built and maintained relationships with key suppliers and customers to support seamless operations.
Controlled inventory transactions to reconcile ordering processes with demand forecasts.
Improved operational efficiency by recruiting and developing top talent to drive growth initiatives.
Developed standard and emergency operating procedures for receiving, handling, storing, shipping and salvaging products.
Developed and managed operating budget, meeting department goals.
Implemented strategic plans as well as contributed to evaluation and analysis of business objectives.
Documented safety action plans, quality initiatives and team performance into computer system.
Increased client retention by providing superior customer service.
Drove revenue through effective sales strategy while evaluating and correcting profit loss areas .
Cultivated member loyalty by delivering flawless service to foster client retention.
Identified and solved complex strategy obstacles to promote growth and guide business direction.
Organized financial reporting, scheduling and inventory systems to enhance productivity.
Negotiated contracts with suppliers and customers to provide best cost and delivery terms.
Trained new staff on job duties, company policies, and safety procedures for rapid onboarding.
Coordinated driver dispatch to accomplish daily delivery requirements.
Organized records of vehicles, schedules and completed orders.
Developed and maintained knowledgeable and productive team of employees.
Reduced worker accidents by implementing improved safety standards and monitoring procedures.
Maintained established levels of goods based on sales forecasts and demand to fulfill orders on time.
Oversaw warehouse staff and maintained efficiency in fast-paced environment.
Integrated warehouse operations with existing and new business processes.
Created and enforced detailed organization processes to increase quality and service standards.
Collaborated with manufacturing and supply chain management.
Led improvement initiatives to advance operational efficiencies and increase revenue.
Tracked production and quality control systems to proactively identify deficiencies.
Negotiated contracts with outside providers and rates for facility leases to minimize costs to company.
Reviewed and negotiated contracts with carriers to optimize shipping costs.
Courts Fiji Limited
Samabula
Procurement & Export Shipping Coordinator
01.2011 - 01.2012
Job overview
Managed category portfolios, including stock allocation, costing and pricing analysis, promotional strategies, and advertising initiatives.
Conducted competitor analysis and price comparisons through media monitoring and surveillance; implemented pricing strategies within allocated gross profit margins.
Monitored sales performance for assigned categories, reviewed margins, and analyzed stock performance using New Vision and Snapshots reports.
Sourced vendors and negotiated pricing, terms, and minimum order quantities (MOQs) for local and overseas suppliers.
Coordinated stock movements, including inland transportation, shipping to all Fiji branches, and export logistics to regional branches in Tonga and other Pacific outlets.
Oversaw stock inventory control, monitored replenishment of continued lines, and recommended pricing adjustments to minimize aged stock.
Conducted stock age analysis and implemented contingency measures to optimize inventory levels.
Prepared range plans during branch visits and managed both local and overseas purchase orders.
Collaborated with suppliers to ensure timely product delivery and maintained up-to-date purchasing records.
Coordinated inter-branch deliveries and worked with the inventory manager on planning, forecasting, and inventory management.
Liaised with suppliers, branch managers, and supervisors on procurement and SKU allocation.
Managed import and export processes, liaising with the Fiji Islands Revenue and Customs Authority (FIRCA).
Prepared duty drawback schedules and coordinated with freight forwarders for logistics compliance.
Fosters Group Pacific Limited
Walu Bay
Group Procurement Officer Sales & Operations Planning Logistics & Distribution
01.2010 - 01.2011
Job overview
Managed category portfolios, including stock allocation, costing and pricing analysis, promotional strategies, and advertising initiatives.
Conducted competitor analysis and price comparisons through media monitoring and surveillance; implemented pricing strategies within allocated gross profit margins.
Monitored sales performance for assigned categories, reviewed margins, and analyzed stock performance using New Vision and Snapshots reports.
Sourced vendors and negotiated pricing, terms, and minimum order quantities (MOQs) for local and overseas suppliers.
Coordinated stock movements, including inland transportation, shipping to all Fiji branches, and export logistics to regional branches in Tonga and other Pacific outlets.
Oversaw stock inventory control, monitored replenishment of continued lines, and recommended pricing adjustments to minimize aged stock.
Conducted stock age analysis and implemented contingency measures to optimize inventory levels.
Coordinated inter-branch deliveries and worked with the inventory manager on planning, forecasting, and inventory management.
Liaised with suppliers, branch managers, and supervisors on procurement and SKU allocation.
Managed import and export processes, liaising with the Fiji Islands Revenue and Customs Authority (FIRCA).
Built relationships with vendors to negotiate ideal terms for purchases.
Maintained detailed records of all procurement activities for reference purposes as well as for auditing and compliance.
Developed strong partnerships with vendors to secure favorable pricing, payment terms, and delivery schedules.
Managed procurement projects from initiation to completion, ensuring timely delivery of goods and services.
Developed and strengthened supplier relationships.
Improved supplier relationships through regular communication, timely payments, and transparent dealings.
Reduced costs with meticulous supplier negotiation and strict adherence to budget constraints.
Monitored market trends closely to identify potential shifts in pricing or availability that could affect procurement decisions.
Evaluated internal needs and developed plans for maintaining optimal supply levels.
Achieved cost savings by conducting thorough market research before initiating the purchasing process.
Prepared accurate purchase orders using relevant software applications, ensuring clear communication of requirements to suppliers.
Maintained current understanding of pricing structures, market conditions and trends in industry.
Input, analyzed and reported on data covering all aspects of procurement operations.
Supported sustainability efforts within the organization by procuring environmentally friendly materials whenever possible.
Optimized procurement processes by implementing streamlined strategies and efficient communication methods.
Evaluated vendor performance regularly to maintain reliable supply chain operations and address issues promptly.
Contributed to company profitability by identifying innovative ways to cut costs without compromising essential business functions or stakeholder satisfaction levels.
Set up and negotiated contracts to obtain favorable pricing and delivery structures.
Collaborated cross-functionally to identify opportunities for improving efficiency in purchasing procedures.
Enhanced inventory management by implementing a well-organized system for tracking stock levels and reorder points.
Assisted in the development of annual budgets by forecasting procurement needs accurately based on historical data analysis.
Participated in professional development opportunities to stay current with industry best practices and continuously improve procurement skills.
Ensured compliance with organizational policies, legal requirements, and industry standards in all procurement activities.
Sourced high-quality products by establishing stringent selection criteria for potential suppliers based on quality, price, and service reputation.
Organized competitive bidding processes among suppliers to ensure fair pricing opportunities while maintaining high product quality standards.
Conducted risk assessments for supply chain disruptions and implemented contingency plans accordingly to minimize impact on business operations.
Procured materials for squadron maintenance and repair services.
Negotiate contracts with vendors, securing best prices and terms for materials, equipment and services.
Managed database of vendor details and pricing information to maintain organization.
Utilized software to order, track and invoice product shipments.
Provided accurate and up-to-date records of leading procurement procedures.
Implemented policies and procedures for optimal purchasing methods and cost control.
Made valuable contributions to planning of promotions, pricing and inventory levels, enhancing inventory flow, revenue, and profits.
Performed yearly store audits in collaboration with managers, designers, and sales associates to provide feedback.
Reduced production downtime by overseeing quality control and assembly.
Fiji Islands Revenue & Customs Authority
Walu Bay
Customs Officer
11.2000 - 01.2009
Job overview
Served in various capacities within the Customs Department, including the Revenue Division.
Served in multiple strategic divisions within the Customs Department, including Revenue, Risk & Compliance, Enforcement & Border Control, Investigations, and Intelligence, gaining holistic exposure to Fiji's border protection and trade compliance framework.
Seconded to the Joint Fiji Customs and Police Transnational Crime Unit (TCU), supporting collaborative enforcement initiatives targeting transnational smuggling, illicit trade, and customs-related offenses.
Enforced the Customs Act 1986, ensuring strict compliance with import/export regulations, safeguarding Fiji's borders, and deterring illicit activities through surveillance, interdictions, and intelligence-led operations.
Accurately calculated and collected import duties, VAT, and other applicable taxes on commercial consignments and passenger luggage in line with the Harmonized Customs Tariff (HCT).
Performed reconciliation of aircraft ship stores, identifying discrepancies, surcharging duty-free losses, and holding airline operators accountable through thorough verification protocols.
Issued clearances for aircraft, exports, and flight crew, ensuring full compliance with aviation and border entry protocols.
Reported directly to the Manager of Investigations & Intelligence, conducting formal investigations into customs breaches and assisting in the preparation and presentation of cases for prosecution under the Customs Act.
Led investigative activities including surveillance, search warrants, raids, and evidence handling, ensuring full integrity of the chain of custody and legal compliance in all enforcement actions.
Coordinated closely with regional and international enforcement bodies including the Regional Intelligence Liaison Organization (RILO), Transnational Crime Unit (TCU), Fiji Police Force, and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) to support cross-border enforcement and successful prosecution of customs violations.
Improved inter-agency communication by maintaining open lines of dialogue with partner organizations such as the Department of Homeland Security, Border Patrol, and Immigration Services.
Supported national security objectives by enforcing import/export regulations and ensuring compliance with trade agreements.
Facilitated efficient processing of foreign visitors by verifying visas and ensuring adherence to immigration requirements.
Reduced instances of human trafficking through vigilant observation, identification of red flags, and immediate reporting to appropriate authorities.
Assisted in the development of policies and procedures to improve overall customs operations and increase efficiency at ports of entry.
Safeguarded economic interests by monitoring compliance with trade agreements, identifying potential violations, and initiating appropriate enforcement actions.
Protected public health by identifying prohibited food products during agricultural inspections, preventing the spread of harmful diseases or pests.
Conducted outreach efforts to educate businesses and travelers about customs regulations, fostering a culture of compliance among stakeholders.
Mentored junior officers, sharing expertise in inspection techniques, document verification, and risk assessment methodologies to enhance team performance.
Detected fraudulent documents and impersonations through expert knowledge of passport verification techniques, leading to the arrest of numerous identity thieves and fraudsters.
Enhanced border security by conducting thorough inspections and investigations of suspicious cargo and individuals.
Prevented the smuggling of illegal goods through diligent inspection of vehicles, luggage, and cargo containers.
Assisted in the development of comprehensive training programs for new customs officers, improving overall team performance and expertise.
Conducted risk assessments on incoming shipments, prioritizing those requiring further examination based on potential threat levels.
Ensured accurate collection of duties and taxes on imported goods through meticulous record-keeping procedures related to tariffs classifications.
Collaborated with local and federal law enforcement agencies to apprehend criminals attempting to cross borders illegally.
Identified potential threats by analyzing intelligence reports and data on high-risk individuals and organizations.
Streamlined customs clearance process for legitimate travelers, reducing wait times at ports of entry.
Provided exceptional customer service to international travelers while maintaining a professional demeanor during stressful situations.
Upheld intellectual property rights by seizing counterfeit merchandise before it could enter the market, preserving brand integrity for affected companies.
Performed intelligence analysis and law enforcement activities such as apprehension, detention and arrest.
Examined baggage and personal items upon entering or leaving country to verify adherence to customs requirements and identify suspected violations.
Validated immigration documents, asked questions and reported discrepancies to authorities for further review.
Summoned law enforcement to detain persons found to be in violation of customs or immigration laws and arrange for legal actions.
Prevented illegal trafficking of people and narcotics.
Identified and seized contraband, undeclared merchandise and vehicles or boats containing such merchandise.
Supported law enforcement agencies by providing accurate and timely data regarding illegal activity and testimony to facts related to cases.
Detailed persons violating duly established laws and followed orders for further processing.
Developed, planned and participated in tactical operations.
Explained laws and regulations to travelers and distributors and promoted comprehension to foster adherence to requirements.
Interacted with carriers, agencies and foreign entities to provide guidance on admissibility and compliance.
Evaluated shipments to determine duty and taxes due, completed applicable paperwork and informed individuals of expected liabilities.
Initiated civil and criminal prosecutions and cooperated with law enforcement agencies in investigation and prosecution of persons in violation of immigration or customs laws.
Identified contraband items and seized according to customs laws.
Completed investigations of applications for refunds of duties or mitigation of assessed penalties.
Located and procured undeclared items or contraband and processed according to protocol to prevent entry into sovereign soil.
Documented activities in reports and testified in court proceedings to actions.
Reported seized contraband or attempts to illegally transport goods to proper authorities and documented observations and evidence for future actions.
Conducted K-9 inspections to detect drugs, explosives and cash.
Collected samples of import merchandise for additional testing, examination and appraisal.
Mr. Sushant Krishna, Former Operations Manager, Seeto Kui Holdings Limited, PNG, (+679) 999 1146, Sushant.Chetty@gmail.com
Mr. Augustine Sokimi, Legal Counsel, Permanent Mission of the Republic of the Marshall Islands to the United Nations, Geneva, +417602902929, Sokimi@rmiembassygeneva.org
Mr. Gihan K Arachchi, Supply Chain Operations Manager, Betacraft NZ Limited, New Zealand, +64 63768456, gihan@betacraft.co.nz