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Export Manager

An Export Manager understands the product needs of outside markets and oversees the arrangements to export products, including both the shipping logistics and the sale of the products to the end buyer.

In forestry, Export Managers work on behalf of the forestry company to obtain timber domestically and supervise the sale of timber goods abroad. They handle global business responsibilities such as sales, compliance with regulations, and communicating directly with the buyer.

The Export Manager serves as an intermediary between foreign buyers and domestic wood sellers.

Dylan Longino

Export Operations Manager, Rayonier

“As an export manager, you’re constantly keeping up with what’s going on around the world. It all affects this job, from global conflicts to ever-changing foreign policies and laws. These things can be challenging to navigate, but at the same time it’s what makes the position extremely interesting and exciting to be in."

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in a business field such as Business Administration or International Business.

Helpful courses to take in high school: a foreign Language, such as Spanish or French. Business Management, Marketing and Mathematics courses all set a good foundation while in high school. Agricultural classes and clubs are highly recommended to gain industry insight.

Tools of the Trade

  • Basic computer applications such as email, Microsoft Word and Excel.
  • Inventory management and project management software may be used.
  • A basic knowledge of log scaling, which is a method used to determine the volume of logs.

Important Skills

The Export Manager needs to be an expert in the products - in this case, timber - the company provides. In addition, export managers need to be familiar with exportation and transportation management systems. 

Full knowledge of any regulations the company needs to abide by during the export process. Tariff schedules, trade agreements, and international quality standards are among the regulations the Export Manager will monitor on a regular basis.

Because business is primarily conducted online, basic to advanced computer skills are necessary. Programs such as email, Microsoft Word and Excel are examples of the types of computer programs the Export Manager might utilize.

Job Responsibilities

Typically an Export Manager’s job responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

  • Meet with both the buyer and seller to conduct product sales
  • Coordinate the procurement of wood
  • Process the wood to prepare it for export
  • Oversee delivery of the wood to the port for export
  • Maintain knowledge and compliance with foreign and domestic quality standards
  • Seek out new sales opportunities for the forestry company
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