Customs assistant manager

The Assistant Manager, UK Customs Team, will support the UK Customs Compliance Manager in overseeing the daily operations of the UK Centralised Customs team for all UK Affiliates. This role involves ensuring compliance with all relevant customs regulations, managing import and export processes, and providing guidance and support to team members. The Assistant Manager will also play a key role in process improvement and efficiency initiatives.

Key Responsibilities:

• Compliance Management: Assist in ensuring all customs activities comply with UK HM Revenue and Customs regulations and trade laws, as well as Global Trade Compliance policies.
• Team Management: Directly responsible for a team of 4, providing guidance, training, and support.
• Process Oversight: Oversee import and export processes, ensuring timely and accurate documentation and clearance within the UK Customs team.
• Risk Management: Identify and mitigate risks related to customs and trade compliance.
• Process Improvement: Lead in continuous improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency and effectiveness of our customs operations.
• Reporting: Prepare and review reports on customs activities, compliance status, and team performance. Share these reports with Senior management.
• Stakeholder Communication: Liaise with internal and external stakeholders, including but not limited to external suppliers, customs authorities, and logistics providers & brokers.
• Training and Development: Assist in developing and delivering Customs training programs for the Customs team and general staff of all UK Affiliates.
• Documentation Management: Maintain and store documentation in alignment with divisional retention policies. Maintain risk register for each UK Entity coordinating with Management and Customs team to address any issues. Review Local Customs Procedures and process changes when required.
• Customs Classification, Country of Origin determination & Customs Special Procedures: Perform classification of products and prepare a related diligence document. When required perform country of origin reviews. Understand and support the team with the use of Customs Special Procedure Codes.
• Broker Management: Ensure broker due diligence and controls are in place, including SLAs and regular KPI reviews. Feedback to Senior management.
• Continuous Improvement: Foster a culture of continuous improvement within the team, aligning with the vision for the Customs Centre of Excellence in the UK.
• Subject Matter Expertise: Provide guidance on classification, valuation, and country of origin decisions & customs procedure codes within a dynamic environment.

Qualifications:

• Education: A Bachelor's degree in International Trade, Business Administration, or a related field is preferred but not required. Candidates should possess equivalent knowledge or experience in the customs field. Practical experience and familiarity with industry practices are highly desired.
• Experience: Experience working in a collaborative and cross-functional environment, both domestic and international. Minimum of 4-5 years of experience in Customs and Trade compliance, with at least 2 years in a Supervisory or Assistant managerial role.
• Knowledge: Strong understanding of UK Customs regulations and International Trade laws. Extensive knowledge and experience of Global customs regulations and administrations. Rules of origin with the ability to apply the knowledge into a written reasonable care decision. Customs valuation rules and the ability to apply the knowledge within the company's business practices. Application of free trade agreements.
• Skills: Excellent communication, leadership, and organizational skills. Ability to manage complex compliance issues as they arise. Experience with Customs software, Microsoft Office Suite, and various ERP systems such as SAP, SAGE, and AS400. Ability to effectively utilize these tools to streamline operations and enhance productivity.
• Certifications: Relevant certifications (e.g., Certified Customs Specialist) are desired.
• Personal Attributes: Detail-Oriented: Strong attention to detail and accuracy. Problem-Solver: Ability to identify issues and develop effective solutions. Team Leadership: Foster a collaborative and supportive team environment, encouraging open communication and teamwork to achieve common goals. Adaptable: Ability to adapt to changing regulations and business needs.

Note: This job description is not to be considered an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or requirements and does not limit the assignment of additional duties for this role.