Behzad Kanchwalla

A seasoned Export/Import leader with over 20 years of progressive experience managing high-value Export/Import operations worth PKR 8–9 billion annually. Known for building and leading cross-functional teams, driving compliance across international regulatory frameworks within the seafood export/import industry, and maintaining strong working relationships with banks, shipping lines, customs authorities, and insurers. Brings a disciplined, process-driven approach to documentation, Letters of Credit, export refinance, and end-to-end logistics — consistently delivering on time and within scope.

Now seeking to channel this depth of expertise into a Head of Exports/Imports leadership role within the FMCG sector in Pakistan.

Billing and Accounts Executive (Part-Time) at UNIVERSAL SHIPPING, INC. (2024 – Present)

• Process and reconcile freight invoices, debit/credit notes, and shipping billing statements across multiple carrier accounts.
• Manage accounts payable/receivable cycles, ensuring timely collections and accurate ledger postings.
• Coordinate with shipping agents and clients to resolve billing discrepancies and expedite payment settlements.
• Utilise CargoWise cloud-based application for generating debit/credit invoices and managing freight billing documentation.
• Operate Extensiv 3PL Warehouse Manager for order closing, stock management reporting, and warehouse operations oversight.

Head of Exports and Imports at KANPA INTERNATIONAL SALES (2007-10 – Present)

Seafood Export/Import Company (FMCG)

• Operations and Compliance
• Manage end-to-end shipping documentation including Commercial Invoices, Packing Lists, Bills of Lading, Certificates of Origin, and GSP Forms.
• Scrutinise and draft Export/Import Letters of Credit; liaise with banks for Export Refinance documentation and exchange rate negotiation with Treasury.
• Ensure compliance with local and international trade laws, SBP regulations, Export Facilitation Scheme (DTRE) and HACCP/seafood quality standards.
• Coordinate with shipping lines, freight forwarders, Customs Authorities, and insurance companies for smooth cargo movement.
• Establish and monitor end-to-end procedures for export/import clearances covering documentation, Letters of Credit, insurance coverage, bank liaison for logistic fulfilment, Export Refinance documentation and exchange rate negotiations with Treasury.
• Maintain MIS reports, monitor order delivery schedules and act as liaison between production, operations and commercial units to ensure seamless shipments.
• Leadership and Strategy
• Lead a team of five export/import professionals, setting KPIs, conducting performance reviews, and driving departmental excellence.
• Oversee trade worth PKR 8–9 billion per annum across global markets, ensuring end-to-end shipment execution and client satisfaction.
• Prospect and negotiate contracts with key buyers, distributors, and department stores across Asia, Middle East, Europe and USA.

Assistant Manager – Exports and Imports at KANPA INTERNATIONAL SALES (2005-12 – 2007-09)

• Managed movement of seafood products in/out of the country in compliance with organisational policy and local/ international law.
• Prepared and submitted export/import documentation accurately and on time; supervised signatory processes.
• Liaised with government authorities, customers, and suppliers in relevant territories to ensure efficient trade operations.
• Supervised stock control, warehousing, and distribution activities linked to export/import operations.
• Recruited, trained, and evaluated direct reports; maintained departmental IT systems and MIS.
• Ensured all sales/purchase inquiries and orders were processed correctly and in an expedited manner.
• Monitored and ensured adherence to order delivery schedules across all active shipments.
• Expedited export/import arrangements and maintained current knowledge of export/import tariffs, licenses, and restrictions.
• Liaised with other departments to establish and maintain effective export/import activities across the organisation.

Senior Executive Assistant at MAHI SEAFOODS (2002-07 – 2005-11)

• Supported CEO and senior management in operational and administrative functions across the export division.
• Assisted in preparation of export documents: Pro-forma Invoices, Commercial Invoices, Packing Lists, Certificates of Origin, and GSP forms.
• Reorganised departmental filing systems, implemented Wi-Fi infrastructure, and contributed to the design of an interoffice web portal.
• Assisted in formulation of FASIS payroll system and conducted IT training for management staff.

Diploma in International Trade Management and Import/Export Procedures – Pakistan Institute of Management Studies (PIMS) (2024-01 – 2024-06)

Bachelor of Commerce (B.COM) – University of Karachi