Akeem Ishola Aro

Dynamic and results-oriented Supply Chain and Logistics Professional with over 10 years of progressive experience across the Power & Energy, FMCG, and Engineering industries. Adept at leading end-to-end supply chain functions, including international trade (import/export), procurement, warehousing, inventory management, and logistics operations. Proven ability to drive cost optimization, enhance operational efficiency, and ensure regulatory compliance in highly regulated environments.

Demonstrates a consistent track record of supplier performance management, contractual risk mitigation, and aligning procurement strategies with business goals. Skilled in cross-functional collaboration, ERP and data-driven decision-making, with a deep understanding of clearing, documentation, compliance (SON, NAFDAC, NESREA), and international shipping protocols. Passionate about transforming supply chain operations through innovation, process improvement, and strategic sourcing to support organizational growth and customer satisfaction.

Supply Chain Manager - Africa Consulting Office Energy Nigeria Ltd (ACO) - Lagos, Nigeria

(2025-06 - 2026)

• Reviewed and optimized end-to-end supply chain operations in compliance with company policies, regulatory standards (SON, NAFDAC and The NCS - B'Odogwu, NSW), and international trade laws (WTO, GATT, HS CODES, Incoterms 2020 etc.)
• Processed Form M and PAAR applications via the Nigerian Customs B'Odogwu Portal, National Single Window (NSW) with accurate documentation including LETTER OF CREDIT, BILL of LADING, PFI, SONCAP, SONPC, NAFDAC Permit and Insurance Certificates.
• Coordinate with vendors, forwarders and customs agents on real-time status of shipments throughout importing seamless process without delays and timely resolution of issues
• Enhance clearing productivity by effectively managing monthly SLA meetings with clearing agents.
• Prepare cost estimations for landed costs and prepare variance between estimated and actual clearance cost.
• Coordinate pickups & deliveries with customers, warehouse logistics companies and internal department to ensure correct delivery without delays or errors
• GIT insurance processing and Truck & Driver validation to ensure correct pre-documentation
• All inbound and outbound goods are logged in real time and reported same day with reporting counting identical to physical stock count
• Overseeing compliance for customs audits and manage key relationships with OEMs, Customs, banks, and regulatory bodies to support smooth operations
• Overseeing clearing agents and other vendors payments within 14 days working days of job completion.
• Resolve documentation gaps in imports and purchases to prevent excess duties or clearance delays.
• Resolve delivery issues from OEM's and user departments.
• Act as the Single Point of contact for Custom clearing activities for SCM across stakeholder departments
• Develop a collaborative working relationship with all 3PL vendors and manage multiple teams across department and units

Supply Chain Manager - SURECHILL NIGERIA - Lagos, Nigeria

(2024-09 - 2025-04)

• Reviewed and optimized end-to-end supply chain operations in compliance with company policies, regulatory standards (SON, NAFDAC and The NCS - Trade Portal), and international trade laws (WTO, GATT, HS CODES, Incoterms 2020 etc.)
• Processed Form M applications via the Nigerian Customs Trade Portal with accurate documentation including LETTER OF CREDIT, BILL of LADING, PFI, SONCAP, SONPC and Insurance Certificates.
• Oversaw global import/export operations, improving customs clearance efficiency, ensuring delivery timelines, and reducing delays across EPC project logistics.
• Designed and implemented logistics strategies from origin to final warehouse destination, enhancing visibility, traceability, and delivery accuracy.
• Led cross-functional collaboration between diverse teams to streamline materials flow and supply continuity.
• Mitigated operational risks by applying demand forecasting, scenario planning, and integrating new supply chain technologies.
• Managed nationwide inventory and last-mile distribution, reducing stock-outs and achieving optimal inventory turnover ratios.
• Reduced procurement cycle time through process re-engineering, automated requisitioning, and improved vendor responsiveness.
• Enforced strict budget adherence, aligning procurement spend with financial forecasts and achieving 10–15% cost savings through strategic sourcing.
• Identified and mitigated contractual and supplier risks, ensuring compliance, performance, and timely delivery on large-scale infrastructure projects.
• Evaluated and tracked supplier and EPC contractor performance against SLAs, quality KPIs, and contractual benchmarks to drive accountability.

Import and Export Coordinator - SUNKING NIGERIA LTD - Lagos, Nigeria

(2023-04 - 2024-08)

• Tracked and followed up on international shipments from origin to destination, ensuring on-time delivery, customs compliance, and minimal demurrage.
• Processed Form M applications via the Nigerian Customs Trade portal with accurate documentation including LETTER OF CREDIT, BILL OF LADING, PFI, SONCAP, SONPC and insurance certificates.
• Coordinated with certified insurance brokers, ensuring timely issuance of certificates and shipment risk coverage.
• Liaised with local banks for pre-shipment documentation, ensuring completeness and compliance with financial and trade regulations.
• Prepared and processed annual import licenses and permits (SON and NESREA) in line with statutory requirements.
• Engaged foreign vendors to ensure compliance with Nigeria's import/export procedures, avoiding regulatory breaches and delays.
• Collaborated with procurement to onboard new international suppliers, guiding them through the full Impex and compliance onboarding process.
• Validated PFI and shipping document details against Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) requirements to ensure alignment and approval readiness.
• Managed Form M, PAAR number dissemination, ensuring accurate references across all supplier invoices, BLs, and shipping documents.
• Oversaw the pre-clearing process, enabling smooth dispatch to operations and avoiding unnecessary warehousing charges or delivery delays.
• Maintained real-time updates on internal systems and dashboards, ensuring project stakeholders had visibility on clearance and delivery progress.
• Ensured risk-free delivery and zero liability from shipment errors or customs delays by maintaining process integrity and vendor complaint

Senior Associate, Warehouse & Logistics - SUNKING NIGERIA LTD - Lagos, Nigeria

(2019-05 - 2023-03)

• Directed end-to-end warehouse operations including inbound/outbound logistics, order fulfillment, and shipment tracking for enhanced productivity.
• Designed and implemented optimized warehouse layouts, racking systems, and SOPs to improve space utilization and workflow efficiency.
• Implemented and enforced safety protocols, equipment maintenance procedures, and emergency response plans to maintain a safe working environment.
• Monitored key performance indicators (KPIs) such as order accuracy, on-time delivery, inventory turnover, and labor productivity.
• Analyzed warehouse performance data, identified trends and areas for improvement, and implemented corrective actions as needed.
• Prepared regular reports and presentations on warehouse performance, operational metrics, and project status for management review.
• Managed inventory levels through regular cycle counts, audits, and reconciliation processes to reduce shrinkage and eliminate stock variance.
• Led a team of warehouse personnel; conducted recruitment, onboarding, performance reviews, and ensured adherence to KPIs.
• Built a culture of continuous improvement, accountability, and lean warehousing among team members for operational excellence.
• Raised requisitions and purchase orders for warehouse materials, handling equipment, and safety gear in line with operational requirements.
• Collaborated with vendors, freight forwarders, and 3PL partners to coordinate timely goods movement and optimize last-mile delivery.
• Scheduled and monitored inbound and outbound logistics, managed route optimization, and ensured on-time delivery to customers.
• Ensured strict compliance with health, safety, and environmental (HSE) regulations and ISO quality standards within the warehouse.
• Utilized WMS tools and data-driven tracking systems for real-time visibility and enhanced inventory control and reporting.

Supervisor, Warehouse & Logistics - ORIFLAME COSMETICS (SWEDEN) NIGERIA LTD - Lagos, Nigeria

(2014-08 - 2019-03)

• Achieved high customer satisfaction by ensuring accurate order fulfillment, quality checks, and on-time dispatch of goods.
• Oversaw inventory control, maintained accurate records, and used forecasting tools to track and project warehouse performance.
• Conducted regular stock audits, reconciled variances, and ensured alignment of physical stock with system records.
• Identified process bottlenecks and implemented LEAN practices and workflow enhancements to improve warehouse efficiency.
• Collaborated cross-functionally with sales, procurement, and finance teams to synchronize operations and demand planning.
• Strategically planned warehouse layouts and DC operations to optimize space utilization and increase throughput.
• Led end-to-end logistics operations, including freight coordination, route planning, and vendor engagement for timely deliveries.
• Managed the movement of goods from supplier to customer using cost-effective transport and tracking mechanisms.
• Executed and monitored logistics plans, keeping deliveries within SLA while controlling freight and handling costs.
• Ensured quality and compliance standards across all logistics processes, adhering to both internal policies and regulatory requirements.

Degree - History and International Studies - Lagos State University (2010-12)