Purpose:The Manager - Global Trade oversees the day-to-day import and export compliance operations for a U.S.-based multinational with significant global trade activity. This role ensures compliant execution of customs processes, accurate classification and documentation, effective broker management, and timely response to internal and external inquiries. The manager drives process improvements, develops KPIs, supports duty-savings programs, and partners closely with logistics, procurement, finance, and legal teams.
The position requires strong technical knowledge of customs and trade regulations, analytical and problem-solving abilities, excellent communication and management skills, and the capacity to manage multiple operational workflows and priorities in a fast-paced, dynamic global trade environment.
Job Responsibilities:Daily Import & Export Operations- Serve as the primary contact for import/export inquiries from internal teams, customs brokers, and government agencies.
- Oversee customs broker activities: manage key performance indicators (KPIs) to evaluate performance, enforce SOPs for all brokers to ensure adherence to data quality and customs requirements.
- Oversee all HTS and ECCN classification processes and procedures, ensuring accuracy, consistency and defensibility with CBP and act as final point of escalation on classification determinations.
- Ensure proper application of Incoterms across global shipments and support internal teams in selecting appropriate terms.
- Coordinate export control processes, including screening requirements, export license applications, and recordkeeping.
Compliance & Regulatory Execution- Maintain compliance with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), BIS, OFAC, and other regulatory bodies' rules and regulations.
- Conduct periodic internal compliance audits and partner with external auditors as needed.
- Support the development and delivery of trade compliance training for employees and functional partners.
- Monitor regulatory changes and update internal procedures accordingly.
Trade Programs & Duty Optimization- Manage duty drawback activities, including data collection, claim preparation, and coordination with brokers or service providers.
- Oversee free trade agreement (FTA) programs such as USMCA, KORUS, etc. and ensure all products eligible for FTAs are claimed.
- Support tariff engineering, valuation reviews, and other duty-savings initiatives in partnership with finance and other business functions.
Process Improvement & Performance Management- Identify workflow inefficiencies and lead process improvement initiatives across import/export operations.
- Support implementation and maintenance of trade compliance systems and automation tools.
- Maintain SOPs, work instructions, and internal controls for trade compliance processes.
Cross-Functional Collaboration- Partner with sales, logistics, supply chain, procurement, finance, and legal teams to ensure trade compliance is embedded in daily operations.
- Provide clear, timely communication on compliance requirements, shipment issues, and regulatory changes.
Technical / Functional Skills:- Strong working knowledge of U.S. import/export regulations, HTS classification, valuation, country of origin, duty drawback, foreign trade zones, Incoterms, and FTA programs.
- Experience managing customs brokers and/or outsourced trade compliance providers.
- Familiarity with export screening tools, denied party lists, and export licensing processes.
- Experience designing and implementing business processes and controls within SAP with an eye towards continuous improvement.
- Strong analytical and financial skills, including comfort working with data, KPIs, and duty calculations.
- Excellent communication skills with the ability to support cross-functional teams and explain regulatory requirements clearly.
- Demonstrated success leading trade compliance team and collaborating cross-functionally.
- Experience with trade automation tools and digital compliance platforms.
- Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree or professional certifications (e.g., JD, LCB, CCS, CUSECO) preferred.
- Ability to travel as necessary - 0% to 5%
Basic Qualifications:- Bachelor's degree in Business Admin, Logistics, Accounting/Finance, Economics or International Business
- 5+ years of experience in global trade, compliance, customs, or international trade law within multinational environment
This position may require access to United States export controlled technical data ("CTD") and hardware under the Departments of US State (ITAR) and/or Commerce (EAR). Eligible candidates are; US Citizens, Green Card holders, Asylees or others eligible to receive US export license authorizations. Candidate must be authorized to work in the US.
