Senior Customs Consultant

£61,600 - £88,000 per annum | 35 days holiday (pro rata) | 10% in-store discount | Pension scheme

Everyone who works at Lidl brings something unique to the table – but we also have a whole lot in common. We’re assertive, adaptable, and always go the extra mile to support our team. Our Customs department has an exciting opportunity for a Senior Customs Consultant to join our dynamic team. In this pivotal role, you will lead the successful operation of the Customs team, collaborating closely with the Customs Team Manager, Tax colleagues, and our broader Finance Department at Lidl GB.

Responsibilities

• Lead end‑to‑end customs compliance strategies to ensure full adherence to all regulatory requirements and operational efficiency.
• Serve as the subject‑matter expert and primary escalation point for complex trade queries, including Rules of Origin, Valuation, and Tariff Classification.
• Proactively monitor and analyse geopolitical trade shifts, FTAs, and legislative updates (e.g., UK‑EU TCA, CDS) to optimise business processes.
• Design, implement, and audit robust internal customs compliance frameworks aligned with AEO criteria and HMRC standards.
• Oversee the management of special trade programmes, including new authorisations and updates to existing permissions.
• Partner with SAP GTS teams to provide expert regulatory guidance and ensure system‑wide compliance.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to deliver practical trade guidance that supports commercial objectives.
• Assist with internal audits, including quarterly reviews of import/export entries, Excise, CSDP, and AEO compliance.
• Support the development and maintenance of comprehensive import/export policies, procedures, and internal organisational guidelines.
• Manage large‑scale import/export projects and lead process design to optimise the logistics chain and ensure timely customs procedures.

Qualifications

• Hold a CILT Level 6, MCIEX Grad, or a Degree in International Trade Compliance or Law.
• Proven experience in advisory and audit roles, specifically with HMRC or large consultancies.
• Deep expertise in operational customs clearance, including process design and logistics optimisation.
• Thorough understanding of customs and excise regulations, including AEO, HMRC, and Border Force requirements.
• Demonstrated background in customs bonded warehousing, duty optimisation, and import/export operations within the retail or FMCG sector.
• Extensive experience using customs software and electronic reporting systems.
• Working knowledge of SPS and/or BTOM controls is highly advantageous.
• Ability to design and maintain robust import/export frameworks and organisational policies.
• Capability to interpret complex trade legislation to drive business process improvements.
• A proactive approach to partnering with cross‑functional teams and external stakeholders to achieve compliance goals.

Benefits

• Competitive salary £61,600 – £88,000 depending on experience, plus company car allowance.
• 35 days holiday per year (pro rata).
• Hybrid working model: up to three days a week in the office with on‑site gym, restaurant, and barista bar, and up to two days working from home.
• 10% in‑store discount card and 10% non‑contractual London weighting allowance.
• On‑site car parking, including electric charging.
• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP).
• Company pension scheme.
• Additional benefits as outlined on our benefits page.

We value diversity, equity, and inclusion, welcoming applicants from all backgrounds. Join us to celebrate individuality and grow in a fair, respectful, and inclusive environment.

Please note your employment is conditional upon the Company's receipt of satisfactory references and, if requested by the Company, a satisfactory Disclosure and Barring Service check.

Disclaimer: due to the high volume of applications we receive, we reserve the right to close a vacancy earlier than the advertised date. Once a vacancy has closed, we are unable to consider further applications.