Assistant Manager, UK Customs Center of Excellence

As Assistant Manager, UK Customs Center of Excellence, your key responsibilities will include:

• Overseeing daily customs operations for all UK affiliates, ensuring compliance with HMRC regulations and global trade policies.
• Leading and mentoring a team of four, providing guidance, training, and support to ensure smooth and compliant operations.
• Managing import/export processes, ensuring timely and accurate documentation and clearance.
• Identifying and mitigating customs and trade compliance risks.
• Driving continuous improvement initiatives to enhance customs processes and operational efficiency.
• Preparing and reviewing reports on customs activities, compliance status, and team performance for senior management.
• Coordinating with internal and external stakeholders, including suppliers, customs authorities, logistics providers, and brokers.
• Developing and delivering customs training programs for internal teams across UK affiliates.
• Managing documentation in line with divisional retention policies and maintaining risk registers.
• Supporting product classification, country of origin reviews, and the use of customs special procedure codes.
• Ensuring broker due diligence, including SLA and KPI reviews, with feedback to senior leadership.
• Acting as a subject matter expert on classification, valuation, and customs procedures in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• A bachelor’s degree in International Trade, Business Administration, or a related field (preferred but not essential).
• Equivalent knowledge or practical experience in customs operations and compliance.
• Strong understanding of UK Customs regulations and international trade laws.
• Experience working in cross-functional, international environments.
• Proficiency in customs software, Microsoft Office Suite, and ERP systems such as SAP, SAGE, or AS400.
• Relevant certifications (e.g., Certified Customs Specialist) are desirable.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and organizational skills.
• A detail-oriented, problem-solving mindset with the ability to manage complex compliance issues and lead a collaborative team.

About Abbott

Abbott is a global leader in healthcare innovation, with a diverse network serving customers in more than 160 countries. Abbott Diabetes Care designs, develops, and manufactures leading-edge blood glucose monitoring technology for use in both home and hospital settings, including our Freestyle Libre system. The role is based at our Centre of Excellence in Witney, supporting all UK affiliates and driving process improvements, regulatory compliance, and collaboration with global teams.

Join us and shape your career as you help shape the future of healthcare. We offer a competitive package including a defined-contribution pension scheme, share ownership opportunities, private healthcare and life assurance, a flexible benefits package, a dynamic and inclusive work environment, and wellness initiatives at our Witney site.