Senior Customs and Trade Compliance Manager
Senior Customs & Trade Compliance Manager
Location: Germany (Hybrid)
Industry: Retail / Consumer Goods
Level: Senior Manager
Function: Customs, Trade Compliance, Import/Export, Global Trade
About the Role
We're supporting a leading retail organisation in Germany that is expanding its global supply chain and strengthening its Customs & Trade Compliance capabilities. As part of this growth, we are seeking an experienced Senior Customs & Trade Compliance Manager to lead the company's customs strategy, regulatory adherence, and cross‑border trade operations across key markets.
This is a fantastic opportunity to step into a high‑impact, visible role shaping compliance frameworks, driving optimisation, and supporting the business through continued international expansion.
Key Responsibilities
As Senior Manager, you will own and elevate the company's Customs & Trade Compliance function. Your responsibilities will include:
Strategic Leadership
- Develop, implement, and continuously improve customs & trade compliance strategies across Germany and EU operations
- Act as the primary point of contact for customs authorities, external partners, and internal senior stakeholders
- Lead initiatives related to regulatory changes, risk mitigation, and compliance governance
Operational Excellence
- Oversee import/export processes to ensure full alignment with German law, EU customs legislation, and the Union Customs Code (UCC)
- Manage HS classification, valuation, preferential origin, and tariff optimisation
- Supervise customs declarations and documentation, ensuring accuracy and efficiency
Compliance Maturity & Governance
- Drive internal audits, controls, and compliance monitoring
- Lead or support AEO certification, renewals, and related improvement programs
- Ensure robust record‑keeping and documentation in line with legal standards
Process & Cost Optimisation
- Identify and implement customs duty-saving opportunities and process efficiencies
- Support digitalisation and automation projects within customs operations
- Collaborate cross‑functionally with Supply Chain, Logistics, Finance, Procurement & Legal
Leadership & Stakeholder Management
- Mentor and support junior and mid‑level compliance specialists
- Provide clear guidance, training, and communication to wider business teams
- Partner with senior leadership to influence strategic decisions and supply chain design
About You
Required Experience
- 7+ years of experience in Customs, Trade Compliance, Import/Export, or Global Trade roles
- Strong knowledge of EU customs law, UCC regulations, and German customs procedures
- Advanced experience with HS classification, origin, valuation & customs optimisation
- Proven success interacting with customs authorities and managing audits
- Previous experience in retail, consumer goods, or high-volume supply chain environments preferred
Skills & Attributes
- Strategic thinker with detail-oriented compliance mindset
- Ability to influence stakeholders across all business levels
- Strong analytical skills and process improvement mindset
- Excellent communication skills in German and English
- Experience leading projects or teams
What's On Offer
- 📌 Hybrid working in Germany/Austria
- 📈 Critical leadership role within a growing organisation
- 🌍 Exposure to global supply chain expansion projects
- 🤝 Collaborative culture with strong investment in compliance
- 🚀 Opportunity to build and shape the future of the function
How to Apply
If you're a senior-level customs & trade compliance professional looking for your next step in a dynamic retail environment, we'd love to hear from you.
Please send your CV or reach out directly for a confidential discussion.
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