At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead global trade compliance strategy and ensure robust regulatory adherence.
- Company: Smith+Nephew, a leading FTSE100 medical device organisation.
- Benefits: Generous bonuses, flexible working, health plans, and employee discounts.
- Other info: Join a community that values collaboration, inclusion, and personal growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a high-visibility leadership role with strategic influence.
- Qualifications: 8+ years in global trade compliance with strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 90000 - 120000 £ per year.
Life Unlimited. At Smith+Nephew, we design and manufacture technology that takes the limits off living.
Make Compliance a Competitive Advantage
At the intersection of global trade, geopolitics, and business growth, this role gives you the opportunity to shape and lead the Trade Compliance agenda at a leading FTSE100 medical device organisation. We are seeking a senior strategic Trade Compliance leader to own and drive end‐to‐end global trade compliance strategy enabling compliant, resilient, and efficient cross‐border operations that support business growth, patient access, and innovation. This is not a “check‐the‐box” compliance role. It is a visible leadership position, partnering closely with Supply Chain, Manufacturing, Commercial, Legal, Finance, Digital and External Authorities to turn regulatory complexity into operational excellence.
Your Impact
- Set and execute global Trade Compliance strategy, evolving the Global Trade Compliance road map, global standards and horizon scanning within a complex regulatory landscape
- Act as a trusted advisor to senior leadership on trade risk, regulatory change, and geopolitical impacts
- Ensure robust compliance with import, export, customs, sanctions, and preferential trade programs across diverse markets
- Drive simplification, standardisation, and digitalisation of trade compliance processes
- Strengthen governance, controls, and risk management while enabling speed‐to‐market and supply continuity
- Represent the organisation with Customs Authorities, Government Agencies, and external partners across the regions
- Manage the Global Trade Compliance team, including developing centres of excellence for customs activities, export controls and global training and education.
What You Will Lead
- Global Compliance Framework + Implement and continuously improve global trade compliance policies, procedures, and controls + Oversee key pillars such as HS classification, country of origin, valuation, denied party screening, and broker governance
- Risk, Controls & Audits + Lead compliance risk assessments, internal reviews, and regulatory audits + Proactively identify gaps and execute remediation plans
- Strategic Enablement + Support complex supply chain initiatives, new market entries, product launches, and network transformations + Drive alignment with global digital initiatives (e.g. ERP / customs systems)
- Leadership & Influence + Lead, coach, and develop the Global Trade Compliance team and subject‐matter experts + Build strong cross‐functional partnerships across Operations, Legal, Finance, and Commercial teams
What We’re Looking For
You are a seasoned trade compliance leader who combines deep technical expertise with strong business acumen and executive presence.
- 8+ years experience in global trade compliance within a multinational environment (MedTech, Life Sciences, Manufacturing or complex regulated industries preferred)
- Strong knowledge of customs, import/export controls, sanctions, FTAs, and global trade regulations
- Proven ability to operate at senior leadership level, influencing without authority
- Experience leading regional or global compliance programs and managing regulatory risk at scale
- A pragmatic, solution‐oriented mindset with the confidence to navigate ambiguity and change
- Strong communication skills and the ability to engage regulators, external partners, and internal executives
Why Join Us
- A high‐visibility leadership role with real strategic impact
- Exposure to complex, global trade challenges in fast‐growing and diverse markets
- Opportunity to shape the future of Trade Compliance through digitalisation and transformation
- A culture that values collaboration, accountability, and courageous leadership
You. Unlimited. We believe in creating the greatest good for society. Our strongest investments are in our people and patients we serve.
Inclusion and Belonging: Committed to Welcoming, Celebrating and Thriving on Inclusion and Belonging.
Your Future: Generous annual bonus and pension schemes, Save As You Earn share options, and a car allowance.
Work/Life Balance: Flexible vacation and time off, paid holidays and paid volunteering hours, so we can give back to our communities!
Your Wellbeing: Private health and dental plans, healthcare cash plans, income protection, life assurance and much more.
Flexibility: Hybrid working model (for most professional roles).
Training: Hands-on, team-customised, mentorship.
Extra Perks: Discounts on gyms and fitness clubs, salary sacrifice bicycle and car schemes and many other employee discounts.
Stay connected by joining our Talent Community. We're more than just a company - we're a community!
Sr. Director, Global Trade Compliance (UK) employer: Smith & Nephew
At Smith+Nephew, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a high-visibility leadership role that allows you to make a significant impact in global trade compliance. Our culture fosters collaboration and accountability, while providing generous benefits such as flexible working arrangements, comprehensive health plans, and opportunities for professional growth through tailored training and mentorship. Join us in Watford, where you can thrive in a supportive environment dedicated to innovation and inclusion.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sr. Director, Global Trade Compliance (UK)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to connections in the industry, attend trade compliance events, and engage with professionals on LinkedIn. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that dream role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its trade compliance challenges. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their needs. Show them you’re not just another candidate, but the perfect fit!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! You want to be able to clearly articulate your value and how you can help shape their trade compliance strategy. Keep it concise and impactful—first impressions matter!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Sr. Director, Global Trade Compliance (UK)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Sr. Director, Global Trade Compliance. Highlight your experience in global trade compliance and any leadership roles you've held. We want to see how your skills align with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this position. Share specific examples of how you've driven compliance strategies in the past and how you can bring that expertise to us.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:Since this is a senior role, we’re looking for strong leadership qualities. In your application, mention instances where you've led teams or influenced stakeholders. We want to know how you can inspire and guide our Global Trade Compliance team!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, you’ll find all the details about the role and our company culture there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Smith & Nephew
✨Know Your Trade Compliance Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of global trade compliance regulations, especially those relevant to the medical device industry. Be ready to discuss how you've navigated complex regulatory landscapes in the past and how you can apply that experience to this role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This position is all about leadership, so be prepared to share examples of how you've led teams and influenced stakeholders without direct authority. Highlight your ability to build strong cross-functional partnerships and how you've driven compliance initiatives in previous roles.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you'd handle specific trade compliance challenges or regulatory changes. Think through potential scenarios and have a structured approach ready to demonstrate your problem-solving skills and strategic thinking.
✨Engage with the Company’s Values
Familiarise yourself with Smith+Nephew's mission and values, particularly around inclusion and collaboration. Be ready to discuss how your personal values align with theirs and how you can contribute to their culture of accountability and courageous leadership.
