At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead customs compliance strategies and resolve complex trade queries.
- Company: Join Lidl, a dynamic and inclusive retail giant.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 35 days holiday, gym access, and employee discounts.
- Other info: Diverse workplace with excellent career progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in customs operations while enjoying a hybrid work model.
- Qualifications: CILT Level 6 or equivalent experience in customs and trade compliance.
The predicted salary is between 61600 - 88000 £ per year.
Summary
£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 Customs department.
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.
As the subject matter expert and escalation lead, you will report to the Head of Customs, ensuring our high‑volume, just‑in‑time imports and exports are compliant, cost‑effective, and efficient.
You will oversee the end‑to‑end trade journey, resolving border delays and regulatory issues, while maintaining strict adherence to HMRC and Border Force standards.
At Lidl, we offer a hybrid working model to give you the best of both worlds.
Spend three days or more in our state‑of‑the‑art office, where you can enjoy an on‑site gym, restaurant, and more of the perks you deserve.
And with up to two days at home, you’ll find the work/life balance you need to thrive.
What you'll do
- 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.
- What you'll need
- 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.
- What you'll receive
We give you extensive training and career progression.
Competitive salary starting from £61,600 - £88,000 (plus company car allowance) and 35 days' holiday per year (pro rata).
The salary includes a 10% non‑contractual London weighting allowance.
- Barista bar, restaurant, and free onsite gym
- On‑site car parking (including electric charging in each space)
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
- 10% in‑store discount card
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.
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