Trade Compliance Manager

Trade Compliance Manager

Portsmouth Full-Time 43200 - 72000 £ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead trade compliance activities across the UK and EU, ensuring regulatory alignment.
  • Company: Join a global leader in industrial products with over 150 years of innovation.
  • Benefits: Enjoy remote work flexibility, competitive pay, and opportunities for professional growth.
  • Why this job: Be part of a collaborative environment that values innovation and continuous improvement.
  • Qualifications: Bachelor's degree and 5-10 years in trade compliance required; strong analytical skills essential.
  • Other info: This is a senior-level role reporting directly to the Director of Global Trade Compliance.

The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.

About the Company

We are a global leader in highly engineered industrial products and automated payment technologies. With over 150 years of heritage and a footprint in 100+ countries, our organization is trusted across a diverse range of sectors including financial services, retail, transportation, and gaming. Our solutions include advanced bill and coin validation technologies, secure cash handling systems, and integrated software platforms—delivering innovation, reliability, and value.

The Opportunity

We are seeking an experienced and proactive Global Trade Compliance Manager to lead all trade compliance activities across the United Kingdom and European Union. This is a senior-level position reporting directly to the Director of Global Trade Compliance. You will play a key role in ensuring regulatory alignment, optimizing customs processes, and partnering with both internal stakeholders and external authorities to uphold best practices in import/export compliance.

Key Responsibilities

  • Manage all aspects of import/export compliance across UK and EU sites
  • Serve as the primary contact for customs authorities and regulatory bodies
  • Conduct internal audits, risk assessments, and continuous improvement initiatives
  • Maintain up-to-date product classifications, export control records, and tariff codes
  • Lead the development of compliance programs, procedures, and training materials
  • Collaborate with freight forwarders, customs brokers, and logistics providers
  • Support licensing applications, regulatory submissions, and trade documentation

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in a related field
  • Minimum 5–10 years of relevant experience in trade compliance or import/export operations
  • Strong knowledge of UK/EU customs regulations, EAR, HTS codes, and export licensing processes
  • Proven experience working with SAP and/or other ERP systems
  • Excellent organizational, analytical, and communication skills
  • Ability to lead cross-functional initiatives and influence without direct authority

What We Offer

  • A competitive senior-level compensation package
  • A high-impact role within a global organization
  • Remote or hybrid working flexibility
  • Opportunities for professional growth and cross-border collaboration
  • A collaborative, innovation-driven environment

If you are a strategic thinker with a deep understanding of trade compliance and a drive for continuous improvement, we encourage you to apply.

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Contact Detail:

Approach People Recruitment Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Trade Compliance Manager

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with the latest UK and EU customs regulations. Staying updated on changes in trade compliance laws will not only enhance your knowledge but also demonstrate your commitment to the role during interviews.

✨Tip Number 2

Network with professionals in the trade compliance field. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with others who can provide insights and potentially refer you to opportunities at our company.

✨Tip Number 3

Showcase your experience with SAP or other ERP systems in conversations. Being able to discuss specific projects where you've utilised these tools effectively can set you apart from other candidates.

✨Tip Number 4

Prepare to discuss your approach to leading cross-functional initiatives. Think of examples where you've influenced teams without direct authority, as this is a key skill for the Trade Compliance Manager role.

We think you need these skills to ace Trade Compliance Manager

Knowledge of UK/EU customs regulations
Understanding of EAR and HTS codes
Expertise in export licensing processes
Experience with SAP and/or other ERP systems
Strong analytical skills
Excellent organisational skills
Effective communication skills
Ability to conduct internal audits and risk assessments
Proficiency in developing compliance programs and procedures
Experience in collaborating with freight forwarders and customs brokers
Capability to lead cross-functional initiatives
Influencing skills without direct authority
Attention to detail
Problem-solving skills

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in trade compliance, particularly focusing on your knowledge of UK/EU customs regulations and any specific achievements in import/export operations.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for trade compliance and detail how your skills align with the responsibilities outlined in the job description. Mention your experience with SAP or ERP systems to stand out.

Highlight Key Achievements: When detailing your work experience, focus on specific accomplishments that demonstrate your ability to manage compliance activities and lead cross-functional initiatives. Use metrics where possible to quantify your impact.

Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for a compliance role.

How to prepare for a job interview at Approach People Recruitment

✨Know Your Regulations

Make sure you have a solid understanding of UK and EU customs regulations, EAR, HTS codes, and export licensing processes. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show your expertise and readiness for the role.

✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills

As this is a senior-level position, be prepared to showcase your ability to lead cross-functional initiatives. Share examples from your past experiences where you influenced teams or drove compliance improvements without direct authority.

✨Prepare for Scenario Questions

Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills in trade compliance. Think about potential challenges you might face in the role and how you would address them, particularly in relation to customs authorities and regulatory bodies.

✨Highlight Your Technical Skills

Since experience with SAP or other ERP systems is required, be ready to discuss your proficiency with these tools. Provide specific examples of how you've used technology to enhance compliance processes or improve efficiency in your previous roles.

Trade Compliance Manager
Approach People Recruitment
Location: Portsmouth
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