At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead global trade compliance strategy and ensure robust regulatory adherence.
- Company: Join Smith+Nephew, a leading FTSE100 medical device organisation.
- Benefits: Generous bonuses, flexible working, health plans, and employee discounts.
- Other info: Embrace a culture of inclusion, collaboration, and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on global trade compliance in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: 10+ years in trade compliance with strong leadership and communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 120000 - 150000 £ per year.
At Smith+Nephew, we design and manufacture technology that takes the limits off living. 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:
- 10+ years experience in global trade compliance within a multinational environment (MedTech, Life Sciences, Manufacturing or complex regulated industries preferred).
- Strong knowledge of global customs, import/export controls, sanctions, FTAs, and global trade regulations.
- Proven ability to operate at senior leadership level, influencing without authority.
- Experience leading 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.
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, Global Trade Compliance in England employer: Smith+Nephew
Smith+Nephew is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work culture that values flexibility and employee well-being. Located in Watford, the company provides comprehensive health plans, flexible working hours, and ample training opportunities for professional growth, making it an ideal place for those looking to thrive in the medical device industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Director, Global Trade Compliance in England
✨Join Compliance Communities
Get involved in compliance and risk communities — both online and offline. Look for forums, LinkedIn groups, or even local meetups where compliance pros hang out. You never know who might drop a job opportunity your way!
✨Attend Industry Conferences
Keep an eye out for compliance and risk management conferences and workshops in your area. These events are a goldmine for networking, and they often have job boards or recruiters on-site looking for new talent. Plus, it’s a chance to learn what's trending in the field.
✨Leverage Your University Career Services
If you’ve recently graduated or are still studying, head over to your university's career services. Many companies, including those in compliance, actively recruit fresh talent through these services, so make sure you tap into that resource.
✨Showcase Your Knowledge Online
Start writing articles or blog posts about compliance topics that interest you. Share them on platforms like LinkedIn to demonstrate your knowledge and passion. This not only builds your presence in the field but can also catch the attention of companies like Smith+Nephew looking for candidates who are engaged and informed.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Director, Global Trade Compliance in England
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Understanding of Compliance:In the compliance-risk field, it's super important to showcase your understanding of regulations and risk management frameworks. Highlight any relevant coursework, certifications (like ICA or AML), or even projects that demonstrate your knowledge and commitment to this area. We want to see how you can navigate this complex landscape!
Quantify Your Achievements:When detailing your experience, try to quantify your achievements. For example, if you've previously worked on a project that improved compliance metrics or reduced risk exposure, give us the numbers! This data-driven approach really stands out to hiring managers in compliance-risk roles.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Relevant Skills:Make sure your CV highlights skills that are particularly relevant to compliance, like attention to detail, analytical thinking, and report writing. Ensure these are easy to spot – consider using bullet points to break down your responsibilities and achievements for maximum impact!
Craft a Motivating Cover Letter:In your cover letter, let us know why you’re excited about the compliance-risk role at Smith+Nephew. Share what motivates you about compliance, and how you believe you can contribute to our mission. This is your chance to showcase not only your skills but also your passion for this important field!
How to prepare for a job interview at Smith+Nephew
✨Master the Regulations
Brush up on key compliance regulations relevant to the industry you're applying to. Familiarising yourself with specific laws and frameworks used in your field will give you an edge during technical questions. Show that you’re not just aware of them but can also apply them—think real-life scenarios!
✨Show Your Analytical Skills
Compliance roles really focus on analytical skills, so be prepared for case studies or situational questions during the interview. We've got to demonstrate how we approach risk assessments or compliance audits, possibly drawing on examples from past experiences or university projects. Bring some thoughtful case scenarios to discuss!
✨Know Your Tools
Get comfortable with commonly used compliance software and tools. Familiarity with platforms like RSA or MetricStream can really impress during your interview, as it shows you're ready to hit the ground running. If you’ve had any experience with them, make sure to highlight that!
✨Align with Company Culture
Since it's a full-time position, show your long-term commitment and interest in the company’s mission and values. Dive into how your ethics and professional philosophy align with Smith+Nephew’s stance on compliance. A shared vision can really resonate with interviewers looking for fit as much as skill!
