Senior Customs Director (North America)
Overview
We are seeking a Senior Customs Director to lead and transform our customs and trade compliance function across North America. This is a high-impact, ground-floor opportunity to build internal capabilities, ensure regulatory compliance, and optimize import operations at scale.
Key Responsibilities
Customs Compliance & Oversight
- Own end-to-end customs compliance across North America
- Ensure accurate HTS classification for all imported products
- Oversee and manage customs brokers and freight forwarders
- Maintain compliance with all U.S. customs regulations
Risk Management
- Identify and mitigate compliance risks
- Ensure proper documentation and audit readiness
- Monitor for exposure to penalties, duties, or chargebacks
Process Optimization
- Evaluate and redesign customs and import processes
- Improve efficiency, accuracy, and cost control
- Implement best practices in trade compliance
Strategic Initiatives
- Assess feasibility of in-house customs clearance
- Identify cost-saving opportunities (e.g., duty drawback programs)
- Build roadmap for internal customs function
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Partner with operations, logistics, and procurement teams
- Provide expertise on tariffs, duties, and trade regulations
- Support inbound supply chain decision-making
Qualifications
Required
- 10+ years in customs, trade compliance, or import/export operations
- Deep expertise in:
- HTS classification
- U.S. customs regulations
- ACE portal
- Broker/forwarder management
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Preferred
- Experience in distribution or manufacturing environments
- Experience scaling or building a customs function
- Knowledge of duty drawback programs
Skills & Competencies
- Technical depth in customs and trade compliance
- Independent, self-starter mindset
- Strong stakeholder management
- Ability to build processes from the ground up
Location
- U.S.-based (remote eligible)
- Preferred: Philadelphia area
- Travel as needed to U.S. and Canadian locations
