Director Global Trade Compliance and Controls (m/w/d)

Hillenbrand is looking for a Director, Global Trade Compliance and Controls (m/w/d) to join our European team in Germany. As a Director, Global Trade Compliance and Controls, you will have a strong legal background or be a trade attorney with proven expertise in global trade compliance and controls. You will be responsible for developing, implementing, and overseeing comprehensive trade compliance programs, organization structure, CSDDD/EUDR/Forced Labour Act and operating model to ensure adherence to applicable laws, regulations, and company policies across our global operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and fully execute with accountability all global trade compliance policies, procedures, and controls in alignment with relevant laws and regulations, including but not limited to import controls, export controls, sanctions, customs regulations, and anti-bribery laws, inclusive of country specific policies.
• Accountable for timely and accurate filing of all regulatory and governmental requirements.
• Accountable for proper classifications, duties, and filings for all imports and exports globally.
• Understand and manage all dual use applications including appropriate licensing.
• Accountable for all relevant sanction screenings and actions to drive compliance and mitigate risk.
• Provide strategic leadership and guidance on trade compliance matters to management, operating companies, and cross-functional teams.
• Conduct regular assessments and audits of trade compliance programs to identify areas of improvement and ensure ongoing effectiveness.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders, including legal, finance, supply chain, and operations teams, to address trade compliance issues and mitigate risks.
• Build and sustain strong alignment and relationships with operating companies ensuring role clarity on policy adherence as applicable.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for government agencies, industry associations, and external partners on trade compliance-related inquiries and initiatives.
• Stay abreast of changes in global trade regulations and industry best practices, and proactively communicate updates and implications to relevant stakeholders.
• Lead and mentor a team of trade compliance and control professionals, providing coaching, development, and performance management support.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to streamline processes, enhance efficiency, and optimize resource allocation within the trade compliance function.
• Represent the company in trade compliance-related forums, conferences, and working groups to promote thought leadership and industry engagement.
• Ensure timely and accurate reporting of trade compliance metrics, trends, and issues to management and board of directors.
• Develop and manage the Global Trade Compliance and Controls budget, identifying opportunities for cost savings without compromising service levels.
• Accountable for all trade compliance tools, including evaluation, implementation, and sustaining functionality.

Skills & Experience Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree, Juris Doctor (JD) degree or equivalent legal qualification required; additional certification in trade compliance (e.g., Certified Global Trade Compliance Professional) preferred.
• Minimum of 10-15+ years of experience in trade compliance, export controls, customs regulations, and related areas, preferably in a multinational corporation or legal consultancy firm.
• Strong understanding of international trade laws and regulations, including but not limited to ITAR, EAR, U.S and EU sanctions, EU Dual-Use Regulation, and WCO Harmonized System.
• Demonstrated track record of building and leading high-performing trade compliance and controls teams, with a focus on driving results and fostering a culture of compliance.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively engage and influence stakeholders at all levels of the organization.
• Proven ability to think strategically, analyze complex issues, and develop practical solutions in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Fluency in English required, German and other languages preferred.

Join Hillenbrand and take on a leadership role in shaping our global trade compliance strategy and driving our commitment to ethical and responsible business practices.

Who we are:
Hillenbrand (NYSE: HI) is a global industrial company that provides highly-engineered, mission-critical processing equipment and solutions to customers in over 100 countries around the world. Our portfolio is composed of leading industrial brands that serve large, attractive end markets, including durable plastics, food, and recycling. Guided by our Purpose — Shape What Matters For Tomorrow — we pursue excellence, collaboration, and innovation to consistently shape solutions that best serve our associates, customers, communities, and other stakeholders. To learn more, visit: www.Hillenbrand.com.

EEO: The policy of Hillenbrand Inc. is to extend opportunities to qualified applicants and employees on an equal basis regardless of an individual's age, race, color, sex, religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression or veteran status. Additionally, Hillenbrand Inc. and our operating companies are committed to being an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Employer and offers opportunities to all job seekers including individuals with disabilities.