Position Summary:
We are seeking an accomplished and strategic Global Vice President of Customs & Trade Compliance to lead and enhance our global compliance operations. This executive will develop and oversee the company’s global customs, import/export, and trade compliance programs to ensure adherence to all applicable regulations while enabling efficient and secure international trade. The role is pivotal to mitigating regulatory risks, optimizing cross-border trade, and aligning compliance with our broader supply chain and business objectives.
Key Responsibilities:
- Strategic Leadership:
- Define and implement the global customs and trade compliance strategy in alignment with corporate goals and international regulatory requirements.
- Lead a high-performing global compliance team across multiple regions and functions.
- Policy & Governance:
- Establish global policies and standards for import/export compliance, including HTS classifications, valuation, origin determinations, and export controls.
- Develop and maintain robust internal controls, audit programs, and continuous improvement initiatives to ensure compliance and operational efficiency.
- Regulatory Compliance & Risk Management:
- Ensure compliance with U.S. CBP, EAR, ITAR, OFAC, and global customs authorities.
- Act as the senior point of contact for customs authorities, trade agencies, and regulatory bodies worldwide.
- Proactively assess trade-related risks and implement mitigation strategies.
- Operational Excellence:
- Drive operational improvements to facilitate faster customs clearance and cost savings through preferential trade programs, FTZs, and duty optimization initiatives.
- Collaborate with supply chain, logistics, procurement, and legal teams to ensure seamless cross-border operations.
- Training & Communication:
- Develop and deploy global training programs to build compliance awareness across the organization.
- Provide executive leadership with regular updates on compliance performance, risks, and global trade dynamics.
Qualifications:
- Education:
- Bachelor’s degree in International Business, Supply Chain, Law, or related field; Master’s or JD preferred.
Experience:
- Minimum of 15 years in customs and trade compliance within multinational environments, with at least 7 years in a senior leadership role.
- Deep expertise in U.S. import/export regulations and global customs laws.
- Proven success in managing complex compliance programs across multiple geographies and industries (e.g., manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, or consumer goods).
- Skills:
- Strong leadership, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.
- Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
- Ability to navigate and influence in a highly regulated, fast-paced global environment.