Director Global Trade & Compliance

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Global Trade Compliance & Customs Director will be responsible for developing and executing global trade compliance strategy across all of our client s international markets and ensuring ongoing operational excellence.

This dynamic role combines strategic direction of sanctions and export control compliance with practical oversight of customs compliance, security protocols, and international trade regulations, focusing on minimizing compliance and financial risk while optimizing global trade operations.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

KEY STRATEGIC RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Execute and oversee comprehensive global strategies to comply with export controls and trade regulations
• Oversee all aspects of implementation of key trade compliance functions across all business units and across all jurisdictions (including part tracking and jurisdiction and classification, end use and end user evaluations, and customer and supplier screening)
• Interact with internal business stakeholders to implement best practices in trade compliance
• Develop and be responsible for operating procedures for numerous channels of international trade
• Oversee global customs and trade agreement compliance programs, including CTPAT certification and security initiatives and global customs valuation strategies
• Establish and maintain strategic relationships with global export, sanctions and customs authorities and trade organizations
• Serve as primary contact for all trade-related software systems, overseeing operations, training, and development initiatives
• Drive innovation in trade compliance processes and technology adoption
• Provide strategic input and program and process modifications to reflect evolving legal requirements and best practices

OPERATIONAL LEADERSHIP:

• Oversee global import/export compliance
• Lead and develop trade compliance professionals across global operations, including in the EU, US, Canada, China and India
• Conduct ongoing training of both the trade compliance team members and key business stakeholders (sales, services, Executive team, etc.)
• Provide periodic guidance to commercial and operations teams on compliance with laws and policies, including updated guidance to reflect changes
• Manage relationships with customs brokers, trade consultants, and service providers
• Direct the implementation of new legislative and regulatory requirements and trade regulation obligations
• Work with external export, sanctions and custom agencies (US, Canada, and other jurisdictions)
• Guide global teams in standardizing international trade processes and compliance practices
• Direct documentation management protocols, including system optimization, staff training, and compliance verification processes

COMPLIANCE AND RISK MANAGEMENT:

• Ensure organizational compliance with international trade regulations and agreements
• Direct the development of compliance training programs for suppliers and customers
• Lead risk assessment and mitigation strategies for global trade operations
• Manage relationships with government agencies and trade associations
• Oversee customs audit preparations and responses
• Develop and coordinate internal and external self-assessments and audits and manage government inquiries and audits in collaboration with the Legal Department and outside attorneys

QUALIFICATIONS:

• 10+ years of Trade Compliance experience (with a strong focus on global sanctions and export control management), at least 4 years of which must have been in a senior leadership position
• Prior customs related experience, preferably in a leadership role
• Proven track record of developing and implementing global trade compliance strategies
• Advanced degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration or related field and/or Certified Customs Specialist (CCS) designation preferred
• Law degree and relevant legal experience are both an asset (although not a prerequisite)
• Additional international trade compliance certifications valued

CORE COMPETENCIES:

• Strategic thinking and business acumen
• Global leadership and team development
• Risk management and problem-solving
• Advanced negotiation and relationship management
• Executive-level communication skills
• Change management expertise
• Advanced proficiency in ERP systems, trade compliance and customs documentation software, and EDI platforms required
• Comprehensive practical knowledge of international trade logistics, agreements and customs legislation

PROFESSIONAL SKILLS:

• Expert knowledge of sanctions and export controls (US, Canada and EU in particular)
• Strong knowledge of Sanctions, Export Controls, Trade Agreements and Customs laws and regulations
• Proven ability to manage and motivate people
• Excellence in stakeholder management and communication
• Detail-oriented with superior organizational skills
• Ability to develop effective global relationships

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