At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead customs compliance and optimise trade strategies for John Lewis and Waitrose.
- Company: Join the John Lewis Partnership, a trusted name in retail.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic role with significant responsibility and career advancement potential.
- Why this job: Be the go-to expert in customs and make a real impact on trade operations.
- Qualifications: Strong knowledge of customs regulations and experience in trade compliance.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 72000 £ per year.
About the role We are looking for a Customs Compliance Lead within the Trading Optimisation Profession.
This key role will serve as the Partnership’s authoritative expert and principal point of contact for HMRC across both John Lewis and Waitrose Brands for the John Lewis Partnership.
In the role, you will lead strategic and operational trade compliance, driving end-to-end import and export controls, Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) governance, complex Excise duty regimes (specifically across Waitrose Beers, Wines, Spirits, and food/non-food imports), and the oversight of the Partnership’s multi-hundred-million-pound duty deferment accounts.
Combining sharp commercial acumen with deep regulatory insight, you will act as a trusted advisor to Heads of Merchandising, Buying, Supply Chain, and Finance.
You will ensure commercial importing and sourcing strategies are legally compliant, duty-efficient, and optimised to protect margins and cash flow while safeguarding stock availability and speed-to-shelf.
You will lead the evolution of the combined Customs
Customs Compliance Lead employer: John Lewis & Partners
John Lewis & Partners is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee development and customer satisfaction. Located in Milton Keynes, the company provides comprehensive training for its In-Store Customer Experience Specialists, ensuring that all team members have the skills needed to excel in their roles while fostering a sense of community and collaboration among staff.
