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 working, health plans, and employee discounts.
- Other info: Join a culture that values collaboration, inclusion, and personal growth.
- 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 100000 - 150000 £ per year.
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.
Senior Director, Trade Compliance EMEA and APAC in Watford 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 real strategic impact in the field of 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 mentorship and training. Join us in a dynamic environment where your contributions will help shape the future of healthcare technology and improve patient outcomes across diverse markets.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Director, Trade Compliance EMEA and APAC in Watford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to connections in the trade compliance field, especially those who work at Smith+Nephew or similar companies. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insider info on the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by diving deep into the company's values and recent news. Show how your experience aligns with their mission of making compliance a competitive advantage. We want to see that passion!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your storytelling skills! Be ready to share specific examples of how you've tackled complex trade compliance challenges. This will help us see your strategic mindset in action.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team at Smith+Nephew.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Director, Trade Compliance EMEA and APAC in Watford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in global trade compliance. We want to see how your skills align with the specific requirements of the Senior Director role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your achievements!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:This role is all about leadership and influence. Use your application to demonstrate how you've successfully led teams and driven compliance strategies in the past. We love seeing examples of how you’ve made a real impact in your previous roles.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your key points stand out. This will help us quickly understand your qualifications and fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application 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 customs, import/export controls, and sanctions. This role is all about navigating complex regulations, so being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're the right fit for the job.
✨Show Your Strategic Thinking
Prepare examples of how you've previously developed and executed trade compliance strategies. Highlight your ability to turn regulatory challenges into opportunities for operational excellence, as this is key for the Senior Director role.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
Be ready to talk about your experience in leading teams and influencing stakeholders without direct authority. This position requires strong leadership, so share specific instances where you've successfully guided teams through complex compliance issues.
✨Engage with Real-World Scenarios
Think of some recent geopolitical events or regulatory changes that could impact trade compliance. Discussing these during your interview will demonstrate your awareness of the industry landscape and your proactive approach to risk management.
