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- Tasks: Lead a dynamic team in trade documentation services and enhance customer experience.
- Company: Join a respected organisation supporting UK businesses in international trade.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, hybrid work model, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Shape the future of documentation services while making a real impact on global trade.
- Qualifications: Experience in team leadership, customer service, and operational management is essential.
- Other info: We value diversity and encourage applications from all backgrounds.
Merrifield Consultants are delighted to be partnering with a networking and business support organisation to recruit a Deputy Head of Trade Documentation and Services. This is a fantastic opportunity to join a respected institution playing a pivotal role in supporting UK businesses trading internationally. You will lead a high-performing team and help shape the future of documentation services.
Summary of the Role: Lead daily operations and team management across a broad range of trade documentation services. Drive process improvement, compliance and customer service excellence. Support strategic service development while acting as deputy to the Head of Department.
Details of the Role:
- Location: Central London
- Salary: 50,000 - 55,000 per annum
- Contract: Full-time, permanent
- Team size: 13 direct reports
Responsibilities:
- Line manage and develop a team responsible for issuing trade documentation, ensuring high standards and regulatory compliance.
- Maintain service quality, monitor KPIs, and support ongoing workflow improvements.
- Lead recruitment, onboarding, and performance reviews in collaboration with supervisors.
- Liaise with internal teams (IT, Finance, etc.) and external stakeholders including software providers and industry regulators.
- Support system upgrades, user testing, and the rollout of new digital documentation services.
- Take an active role in risk management, including claims handling and audit preparation.
- Assist in business development by nurturing relationships with key clients and identifying service growth opportunities.
- Coordinate daily operations including Certificates of Origin, ATA Carnets, Legalisation and Customs Declarations.
Person Specification:
Essential:
- Demonstrable experience in team leadership or operational management.
- Strong working knowledge of customer service excellence and stakeholder engagement.
- Experience with claims handling and/or debt collection.
- Skilled in decision-making, time management, and problem-solving.
- Confident in using CRM systems and Microsoft Office applications.
- High attention to detail, able to work under pressure and manage competing priorities.
- Experience managing third-party suppliers.
Desirable:
- Technical experience with trade documentation (e.g., ATA Carnets, Certificates of Origin, Customs Declarations).
- Project management experience, particularly with system implementation or service improvements.
If you’re a proactive and experienced operations or service delivery professional with a background in trade or compliance, we’d love to hear from you. Merrifield Consultants are committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion. Applications are encouraged from all sections of the community.
We practice a diverse and inclusive recruitment process that ensures equal opportunity for all we work with, irrespective of race, sexual orientation, mental or physical disability, age or gender. As an organisation, we encourage applications from all backgrounds and will ensure measures are met when required, to allow a fair process throughout.
Deputy Head of Trade Documentation and Services employer: Merrifield Consultants
Contact Detail:
Merrifield Consultants Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Head of Trade Documentation and Services
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific trade documentation services mentioned in the job description, such as ATA Carnets and Certificates of Origin. Understanding these processes will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the trade documentation field. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with others who can provide insights into the role and potentially refer you to opportunities at StudySmarter.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and experiences in managing teams. Think of specific examples where you've driven process improvements or enhanced customer service, as these are key aspects of the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the organisation's values and recent initiatives in trade documentation. Being able to articulate how your skills align with their mission will set you apart during the interview process.
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Head of Trade Documentation and Services
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in team leadership and operational management. Emphasise your skills in customer service excellence and stakeholder engagement, as these are crucial for the role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the position and the organisation. Discuss your experience with trade documentation and how it aligns with the responsibilities of the Deputy Head of Trade Documentation and Services.
Highlight Relevant Achievements: When detailing your work history, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to lead teams, improve processes, and manage compliance. Use metrics where possible to quantify your success.
Prepare for Potential Questions: Anticipate questions related to your experience with claims handling, project management, and system implementation. Be ready to discuss how you've managed competing priorities and improved service delivery in previous roles.
How to prepare for a job interview at Merrifield Consultants
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Deputy Head, you'll be leading a team, so it's crucial to demonstrate your leadership experience. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams in the past, focusing on your approach to developing talent and maintaining high standards.
✨Understand Trade Documentation
Familiarise yourself with key trade documentation processes such as Certificates of Origin and ATA Carnets. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show your expertise and commitment to the role.
✨Highlight Customer Service Excellence
Since the role emphasises customer service, be ready to share specific instances where you've improved customer satisfaction or resolved issues effectively. This will illustrate your ability to drive service excellence.
✨Prepare for Stakeholder Engagement
The position involves liaising with various internal and external stakeholders. Think about your experiences in stakeholder management and be prepared to discuss how you build and maintain these relationships.
