At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead global trade compliance strategy and ensure robust regulatory adherence.
- Company: Smith+Nephew, a leading FTSE100 medical technology company.
- Benefits: Generous bonuses, flexible vacation, health plans, and employee discounts.
- Other info: Hybrid working model and a culture that values inclusion and collaboration.
- Why this job: Shape the future of trade compliance in a dynamic, impactful role.
- Qualifications: 8+ years in global trade compliance with strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ 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. You bring:
- 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.
Global Trade Compliance Director – EMEA & APAC in Watford employer: Smith & Nephew
At Smith+Nephew, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that champions innovation and collaboration within the medical technology sector. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through tailored training programmes, mentorship opportunities, and a culture that values inclusion and belonging. With a flexible hybrid working model, generous benefits including private health plans, and a focus on work-life balance, we empower our team to thrive both personally and professionally in a dynamic and impactful environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Global Trade Compliance Director – EMEA & APAC in Watford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts on LinkedIn or attend trade compliance events. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its trade compliance challenges. We want you to show up ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their needs, especially in navigating complex regulations.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! You need to be able to clearly articulate your value as a trade compliance leader. We suggest rehearsing answers to common questions and highlighting your strategic impact in previous roles.
✨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 are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Global Trade Compliance Director – EMEA & APAC in Watford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Global Trade Compliance Director role. Highlight your relevant experience in trade compliance and how it aligns with the job description. We want to see how you can make compliance a competitive advantage!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:This role is all about leadership, so don’t hold back! Share examples of how you've led teams or projects in the past, especially in complex regulatory environments. We’re looking for someone who can influence without authority and drive strategic initiatives.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Use bullet points where possible to make your achievements stand out. We appreciate straightforward communication, especially when it comes to complex topics like trade compliance.
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 you need 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 MedTech and Life Sciences sectors. Be ready to discuss how you've navigated complex regulatory landscapes in your previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This role is all about leadership, so prepare examples that highlight your experience in managing teams and influencing stakeholders. Think about times when you’ve successfully led compliance initiatives or driven change within an organisation.
✨Understand the Business Impact
Be prepared to articulate how trade compliance can be a competitive advantage for the company. Discuss how your strategies can support business growth, patient access, and innovation while ensuring compliance with regulations.
✨Engage with Real-World Scenarios
Expect scenario-based questions that test your problem-solving skills. Prepare to discuss how you would handle specific trade compliance challenges, such as dealing with customs authorities or managing regulatory audits.
