Employee Spotlight Interview – Elvis
Elvis Bernard - Customs Manager
Tell us about your role with IFC and how long you have been with the business.
I oversee the whole Customs clearance process/operation for the company including compliance with all Customs related laws. I started as licensed Customs Broker with IFC on the 6th of October 2006 and have been the Customs Manager since June 2011.
What do you enjoy most about working at IFC?
The work environment is quite unique in that it is a more friendly environment compared to where I’ve worked before.
What drew you to work in the supply chain industry?
Like most Customs brokers of my generation, it was mostly by the need to have a job and then I developed a passion for it.
Tell us a little about your background and experience.
I started in Customs clearance as a Customs clerk in 1986 with an importer in Mauritius. After successfully completing an examination, I was granted my Customs broker license in July 1997 in Mauritius.
I migrated to Australia with my family (wife and three very young children) in October 2002. I completed a Certificate IV in International Trade Facilitation (Customs Broker course) between 2003 and 2004, passed the Customs Broker national exam in October 2004 and obtained my Customs Broker license in January 2005.
I’ve worked at two major international freight forwarders before joining IFC.
In your experience working in the industry, what are the biggest challenges and opportunities you’ve come across so far?
The biggest challenges in my opinion were to be always up to date to changes both technological and legislative. Keeping up with those changes gave me the opportunity to be professionally who I am today.
How do you think IFC differentiates from competitors?
There’s no old way of doing things at IFC. We are always at the forefront.
For aspiring professionals interested in a career in the supply chain industry, what advice would you give them to kickstart their journey?
You must be dedicated and willing to make sacrifices.
What are your hobbies or favourite interests that you enjoy pursuing in your free time?
I spend most of free time with my family and do a bit of gardening. I’m a big soccer fan.
Describe your life’s motto in a few words!
I value a lot my integrity.