Trade Compliance Specialist Lead

The Trade Compliance Specialist Lead plays a critical part in building, stabilizing, and advancing a global trade compliance function. This is a newly created position designed for a hands-on expert who can operate effectively in an unstructured environment by assessing gaps, organizing complex data, and establishing scalable processes from the ground up.

The individual will serve as a key subject matter expert across import/export regulations, classification, documentation, and compliance controls. This role partners cross-functionally with Supply Chain, Logistics, Legal, Procurement, and Finance to ensure adherence to all regulatory requirements. The ideal candidate is a proactive problem-solver who thrives in ambiguity and drives continuous improvement while building a strong compliance foundation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and rebuild daily trade compliance operations, establishing standardized procedures and improving outdated processes

• Serve as the primary subject matter expert on complex import/export compliance matters

• Develop and maintain scalable processes ensuring accurate and compliant entry records

• Create and standardize product classification processes using HTS, Schedule B, and HS codes; cleanse and validate existing data to ensure accuracy and optimize duty savings

• Provide hands-on training and guidance to internal stakeholders on import/export requirements and compliance standards

• Develop and implement documentation workflows (e.g., Certificates of Origin, Manufacturer Affidavits); identify and resolve process gaps

• Review and correct import/export documentation, improving accuracy, consistency, and compliance; identify duty drawback opportunities

• Support and enhance post-entry correction processes, ensuring audit readiness and documentation integrity

• Build reporting frameworks and KPIs to monitor compliance performance, audit readiness, and operational efficiency

• Partner with internal teams (including Legal) to ensure adherence to regulatory requirements such as sanctioned party screening

• Monitor regulatory and legislative changes, recommending and implementing process updates as needed

• Manage relationships with customs brokers and freight forwarders, including Power of Attorney processes and documentation governance

• Drive corrective actions stemming from audits and compliance issues, implementing sustainable improvements

Education & Certifications

Required:

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, International Business, Supply Chain, Logistics, or related field

Preferred/Required Certifications:

• Certified Customs Specialist (CCS) or Licensed Customs Broker
• Strong advanced Excel/data analysis capability (e.g., pivot tables, VLOOKUP/XLOOKUP, data cleansing)

Preferred:

• Certified International Trade Professional (CITP)
• Lean Six Sigma (Green Belt or higher)

Required Experience & Skills

• 7+ years of experience in logistics/trade compliance with deep expertise in import/export regulations

• Strong knowledge of U.S. trade regulations (CBP, BIS, EAR, OFAC, FTA rules, valuation, origin, duty programs)

• Proven expertise in HTS, Schedule B, and HS classification systems

• Experience cleansing, organizing, and validating large datasets (ERP, broker data, classification records)

• Demonstrated success building or improving trade compliance programs, SOPs, and workflows from scratch

• Experience working with ERP systems (Oracle, SAP, or similar), including trade compliance modules

• Ability to design compliance reporting tools, dashboards, and audit metrics

• Hands-on experience managing import/export documentation (COOs, affidavits, invoices, packing lists)

• Knowledge of duty drawback, post-entry corrections (PSC), protests, and reconciliation processes

• Familiarity with restricted party screening and escalation procedures

• Strong problem-solving mindset with focus on root cause analysis and continuous improvement

• Ability to operate effectively in an unstructured environment and bring clarity and standardization

• Strong communication skills, with the ability to translate complex regulatory topics to non-experts

• Proven ability to collaborate cross-functionally and influence stakeholders

Additional Details

• Primarily on-site role with some flexibility
• Occasional domestic and international travel may be required
• Fast-paced environment requiring strong prioritization and adaptability