Assistant Tax Manager - Customs/Exports
Assistant Tax Manager - Customs/Exports

Assistant Tax Manager - Customs/Exports

Full-Time 36000 - 60000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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Debenhams Group

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Manage customs support for international deliveries and ensure compliance with regulations.
  • Company: Join Debenhams Group, a leader in online fashion with bold ambitions and innovative strategies.
  • Benefits: Enjoy competitive bonuses, discounts, gym access, and a comprehensive wellbeing package.
  • Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team driving change in retail and shaping the future of fashion.
  • Qualifications: Experience in international logistics and a basic understanding of customs regulations required.
  • Other info: Opportunity for ongoing learning and career progression in a fast-paced environment.

The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.

About us

At Debenhams Group, we don’t stand still. We lead, evolve, and redefine online fashion. With bold ambitions and big energy, we’re on a mission to get back to our very best, delivering the strongest propositions to our customers in the most engaging, innovative, and efficient ways possible.

Your Team

Reporting to the Group Customs Manager, you will manage an area providing customs support excellence to all aspects of Debenhams group’s supply chain, from B&M guidance & the customs support for delivery of international customer parcels & returns as well as product & documentation compliance to our wholesale partners.

The department has successfully managed the implementation of a customs bonded warehouse operation at our Burnley DC and will soon embark on a similar project for the Sheffield facility.

The Role

This newly created role, will play a pivotal role in ensuring compliance with international customs regulations and optimising duty costs. This role involves collaborating with suppliers to ensure accurate information for customs declarations whilst educating them on customs requirements and changes. You\’ll handle international customs-related issues, disputes, and investigations as well as developing strategies to resolve trade-related challenges.

You must have a good understanding of global trade regulations and tariff classifications and be able to provide insights on market access and regulatory implications whilst also identifying opportunities for process enhancement and trade process automation.

What you\’ll be doing

With support from the Group Customs Manager you will collaborate with various teams to:

  • Ensure accurate documentation.
  • Ensure Customs duty compliance across the group
  • Minimise duty expenses.
  • Take ownership of the export documentation process in conjunction with wholesale partners and international customs requirements
  • Contribute to the development of international trade strategies and policies
  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives within the customs and global trade function
  • Audit and ensure compliance of relevant import/export customs procedures as well as conducting regular periodic reviews of the procedures to ensure that they are current and are within applicable legal requirements
  • Support Carrier and Freight Forwarder compliance queries and resolving these in a timely manner
  • Maintaining SOP’s for the function in line with HMRC requirements.
  • Facilitate the smooth movement of goods across borders.
  • Identify opportunities to streamline customs procedures, automate tasks, and enhance efficiency.
  • Stay informed about emerging customs and trade regulations that could impact the business.
  • Prepare for and support customs audits, inspections, and verifications as needed.

What we\’re looking for

  • Previous experience of supporting international logistics.
  • Familiar with Shipping documents such as Commercial Invoices and Packing Lists and supporting customs compliance and duty optimisation in an import/export operation.
  • Basic understanding of global customs regulations, trade agreements, optimisation strategies, Incoterms and international logistics.
  • Analytical skills to interpret tariff schedules, trade agreements and customs valuation methods.
  • Detail-oriented mindset for accurate data entry and documentation preparation.
  • Communication skills to collaborate with cross-functional teams, suppliers, and customs authorities.
  • Strong organisational skills to manage multiple tasks and deadlines.
  • Problem-solving skills and the ability to make informed decisions under pressure.
  • Attention to detail and accuracy in customs declarations and compliance documentation.

Working with us

At Debenhams Group, we are a diverse portfolio of five core brands (boohoo, boohooMAN, PrettyLittleThing, Karen Millen, and Debenhams) alongside a dynamic marketplace model and a growing financial services division, it keeps us pretty busy!

We don’t stand still, we lead, evolve, and redefine online fashion. With bold ambitions and big energy, we’re on a mission to be the best, delivering the strongest propositions to our customers in the most engaging, innovative, and efficient ways possible.

We thrive on change, innovation, and pace. Every challenge is an opportunity, and every day is a chance to push boundaries. If you’re someone who embraces the unknown, thrives in a fast-moving, high-growth environment, and is ready to shape the future of retail, you’ll love it here. We want visionaries, disruptors, and doers, people who bring fresh thinking, relentless energy, and the drive to make an impact.

Be bold. Be creative. Be a community.

What happens next

  1. If we believe you could be a great fit for the role, we’ll invite you for an informal conversation via phone or Microsoft Teams with a member of our Talent Team (Please note we won\’t be reviewing applications until w/c 2nd June but will do our best to get back to you asap after that date)
  2. If successful, you’ll then meet with the Line Manager to discuss your experience in more detail and explore the value you can bring to the team
  3. Most of our hiring processes consist of two stages. You may also be asked to meet with Senior Leadership and/or present a task/project

Why join us

2025 is a year for making bold moves, delivering real results, and driving forward with unstoppable momentum. If that excites you, then you belong at Debenhams Group.

Let’s lead the change together.

Benefits Include: (subject to level and eligibility)

  • Highly competitive bonus scheme, company pension, share schemes, private medical cover, and life assurance
  • Access to an on-site gym (Techno Equipment) and free weekly yoga and fitness classes
  • 40% discount across four brands and 20% off at Debenhams
  • A comprehensive wellbeing package to support your health and lifestyle
  • Some of our offices are dog-friendly, so your furry friend can join you at work
  • Ongoing learning and development opportunities with great internal career progression
  • On-site canteen serving breakfast, lunch, snacks, and hot drinks daily
  • Free season ticket loan

#LI-LF1 #LI-onsite #LI-customs

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Assistant Tax Manager - Customs/Exports employer: Debenhams Group

At Debenhams Group, we pride ourselves on fostering a dynamic and innovative work culture that thrives on change and creativity. As an Assistant Tax Manager in our Burnley or Sheffield locations, you will benefit from a highly competitive bonus scheme, extensive learning and development opportunities, and a supportive environment that encourages personal and professional growth. With perks like a comprehensive wellbeing package, on-site gym, and a dog-friendly office, we ensure our employees feel valued and engaged while contributing to our mission of redefining online fashion.
Debenhams Group

Contact Detail:

Debenhams Group Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Assistant Tax Manager - Customs/Exports

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with the latest global trade regulations and customs compliance requirements. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to staying updated in a fast-evolving field.

✨Tip Number 2

Network with professionals in the customs and international logistics sectors. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with others who can provide insights and potentially refer you to opportunities at Debenhams Group.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've optimised duty costs or improved customs processes in previous roles. Being able to share concrete achievements will set you apart during the interview process.

✨Tip Number 4

Research Debenhams Group's current customs operations and any recent news related to their supply chain. Showing that you understand their business model and challenges will impress the hiring team and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.

We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Tax Manager - Customs/Exports

Knowledge of global trade regulations
Understanding of tariff classifications
Experience with customs compliance
Familiarity with shipping documents (e.g., Commercial Invoices, Packing Lists)
Analytical skills for interpreting tariff schedules and trade agreements
Attention to detail for accurate documentation
Strong communication skills for collaboration with cross-functional teams
Organisational skills to manage multiple tasks and deadlines
Problem-solving skills under pressure
Ability to develop international trade strategies
Experience in customs audits and inspections
Proficiency in process enhancement and automation
Knowledge of Incoterms and international logistics

Some tips for your application 🫡

Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Assistant Tax Manager - Customs/Exports position. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experience in customs compliance and international logistics.

Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise any previous roles that involved customs documentation, compliance, or international trade. Use specific examples to demonstrate your analytical skills and attention to detail.

Showcase Your Skills: Make sure to mention your communication and organisational skills, as these are crucial for collaborating with cross-functional teams and managing multiple tasks. Provide examples of how you've successfully navigated challenges in past roles.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should not only express your enthusiasm for the role but also explain why you are a great fit for Debenhams Group. Mention their commitment to innovation and how your background aligns with their goals.

How to prepare for a job interview at Debenhams Group

✨Know Your Customs Regulations

Make sure you have a solid understanding of global customs regulations and tariff classifications. Brush up on the latest changes and be ready to discuss how they impact the role and the company.

✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills

Prepare to demonstrate your analytical skills by discussing past experiences where you've interpreted tariff schedules or trade agreements. Be specific about how your insights led to improved compliance or cost savings.

✨Communicate Effectively

Since this role involves collaboration with various teams and suppliers, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Prepare examples of how you've successfully communicated complex information in previous roles.

✨Emphasise Problem-Solving Abilities

Be ready to share examples of how you've tackled challenges in customs compliance or logistics. Highlight your ability to make informed decisions under pressure and how you approach problem-solving strategically.

Assistant Tax Manager - Customs/Exports
Debenhams Group
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