Background
Sanofi has decided to invest in new, state-of-the-art production facilities for insulin API as part of the InsuLINK program, to ensure a future-oriented, sustainable, and reliable long-term supply for diabetes patients worldwide.
Beijing, China (IFB = Insulin Facility Beijing) and Frankfurt, Germany (IFF = Insulin Facility Frankfurt) have been selected as the locations for the two facilities.
The new production facilities will be designed as fully automated, environmentally friendly, and state-of-the-art biologics facilities that consider the specific process requirements for insulin API.
Position Overview
We are looking for a Logistics Lead who will be responsible for ensuring the smooth and efficient import/export operations and customs clearance for all materials and equipment required for the IFB project. This includes raw materials, single-use materials, consumables, and especially machinery/equipment delivered from around the world during the project phase.
This position plays a crucial role in supporting the construction, start-up phase, and routine operation of our new state-of-the-art insulin production facility in Beijing, with a primary focus on customs compliance and trade facilitation.
The successful candidate will work in close partnership with Engineering, Operations, Quality, Supply Chain/Procurement teams, and external customs authorities to ensure seamless logistics operations.
Responsibilities
Lead all import/export compliance activities for the IFB project, ensuring adherence to Chinese customs regulations and international trade requirements
Manage customs clearance processes for all incoming shipments including raw materials, single-use materials, consumables, and equipment from global suppliers
Serve as the primary point of contact with custom related IFB topics and represent the IFB project during customs inspections and AEO (Authorized Economic Operator) audits
Complete mandatory onboarding training with certification before executing any import/export related activities
Act as key user of the Beijing pharmaceutical import/export community, owning all logistics activities for the IFB project
Manage shared logistics accounts (e.g., DHL) and serve as the owner for trade & customs compliance matters
Respond to all customs Q&A sessions and handle inquiries related to the IFB project during AEO inspections
Develop and maintain customs documentation, procedures, and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) in compliance with Chinese regulations
Coordinate with international suppliers to ensure proper documentation, labelling, and packaging for customs clearance
Monitor and optimize customs processes to minimize delays and ensure timely delivery of critical materials and equipment
Identify and mitigate customs-related risks; develop contingency plans for potential delays or compliance issues
Maintain accurate records of all import/export activities and ensure proper documentation for regulatory compliance
Collaborate with Quality Assurance to ensure imported materials meet both customs and GMP requirements
Support cost optimization through efficient customs procedures and duty management
Participate in cross-functional project meetings and represent logistics/customs interests
About You
Experience
Bachelor's or Master's degree in Logistics, International Trade, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field
Alternatively, equivalent qualification with extensive experience in customs/import-export operations within pharmaceutical or regulated industries
More than 5 years of professional experience in logistics, customs clearance, or international trade, preferably in a pharmaceutical or GMP-regulated environment
Proven expertise in Chinese customs regulations, import/export procedures, and AEO requirements
Experience with customs documentation, tariff classifications, and duty management
Knowledge of international shipping terms (Incoterms) and trade compliance
Experience with ERP systems and customs management software
Skills
Fluent in Chinese (Mandarin) and English – both written and spoken (required)
Strong knowledge of Chinese customs laws, regulations, and procedures
Experience with AEO (Authorized Economic Operator) requirements and customs audits
Understanding of GMP guidelines and their application to material imports
Excellent organizational and planning skills with attention to detail
Ability to work under high pressure in a constantly changing project environment
Ability to work in a highly matrix-driven project environment with strong functional reporting lines
Excellent communication and negotiation skills for dealing with customs authorities
Ability to collaborate closely and build cross-functional bridges with internal teams and external partners
Analytical mindset with problem-solving capabilities
Willingness to complete required import/export certification training
Willingness to travel to Europe for knowledge transfer and alignment with global teams
We Offer
An exciting opportunity to be part of a groundbreaking greenfield project
A dynamic, international work environment with global collaboration
Professional development opportunities within a leading pharmaceutical company (Top Employer of the year 2026 in China)
The chance to contribute to ensuring reliable insulin supply for diabetes patients worldwide
Comprehensive training and certification in import/export compliance