Global Trade Compliance Specialist

Position Overview:

We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Import & Export Officer/Manager to join our team. This role is critical in ensuring the smooth import and compliance of finished products across the UK and EU. The ideal candidate will possess extensive knowledge of customs processes, regulatory requirements, and strong relationships with agents, freight forwarders, and customs authorities. They will play a key role in finding solutions to import hurdles, ensuring seamless customs clearance, and maintaining compliance with all relevant regulations.

Key Responsibilities:

Import Operations:

• Oversee the import processes for finished products from countries like India, China, the USA, the UK, and the EU into our UK and EU warehouses.
• Ensure accurate and timely documentation, including invoices, packing lists, bills of lading, and certificates of origin.

Customs Clearance & Regulatory Compliance:

• Manage customs clearance processes for various types of food supplements, including organic products, ensuring compliance with UK and EU import regulations.
• Ensure adherence to specific import/export regulations, including vet inspections, CHED (Common Health Entry Document) requirements, health certificates, and compliance with bonded warehouse procedures.
• Monitor and manage postponed VAT duties, VAT declarations, and any other tax obligations.
• Work directly with customs authorities to resolve issues and ensure swift clearance of goods.

Solution-Oriented Approach:

• Proactively identify and implement the best methods to ensure smooth customs clearance into the UK and EU.
• Develop strategies to address and resolve import challenges efficiently.
• Act as the primary point of contact for troubleshooting regulatory and logistical hurdles, ensuring minimal disruption to operations.

Stakeholder Coordination:

• Build and maintain strong relationships with freight forwarders, customs agents, and other logistics partners to ensure efficient operations.
• Liaise with manufacturers in different countries to ensure proper packaging, labeling, and documentation for export.
• Coordinate with internal teams, including procurement, warehouse, and compliance, to streamline operations and mitigate potential bottlenecks.

Risk Management:

• Identify and mitigate risks related to customs delays, regulatory non-compliance, and logistical disruptions.
• Stay updated on changes in import/export regulations across the UK, EU, and other regions.

Process Optimization:

• Continuously review and improve import/export processes to enhance efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
• Maintain detailed records of shipments, compliance documents, and inspection reports for audit purposes.

Required Skills and Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, International Trade, Logistics, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in import operations, with a strong focus on the UK and EU markets.
• In-depth knowledge of UK and EU customs regulations, including those specific to food supplements / Nutraceuticals, organic products, vet inspections, CHED, health certificates, and bonded facilities.
• Familiarity with VAT duties, postponed VAT processes, and import/export tax compliance.
• Strong network of agents, freight forwarders, and customs officers.
• Excellent negotiation and communication skills to manage relationships with various stakeholders.
• Proficiency in ERP systems and tools for managing import documentation and processes.
• Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and a proactive approach to addressing operational challenges.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in retail ecommerce or a product-based company dealing with end consumers.
• Familiarity with international trade agreements and customs protocols across multiple regions.
• Knowledge of handling complex supply chains with multiple 3PLs and bonded warehouse operations.
• Candidates with knowledge in the Nutraceuticals industry, will be given the preference.