Customs Manager

The Role:

The Customs Manager will oversee all customs-related operations across the UK and several European markets, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and optimising processes to support seamless cross-border logistics. Reporting to the senior executive team, you will lead a team of c. 5 employees through a direct report and play a key role in shaping the strategy for customs and trade compliance.

This role works to a hybrid model, requiring travel to Midlands based sites., predominately in Leicestershire for c. 3 days per week, with 2 days from home.

Key Responsibilities:

• Leadership & People Management: Lead, mentor, and develop a diverse team of country heads and customs professionals, fostering a culture of high performance, collaboration, and continuous development.
• Compliance & Regulation: Ensure all customs operations comply with international, European, and local regulations, including customs declarations, duty optimisation, and Goods Taxation. Manage risk and ensure adherence to relevant trade laws.
• AEO Accreditation's: Drive the accreditation, renewal, and management of AEO (Authorised Economic Operator) status in relevant countries, maintaining strong relationships with customs authorities to facilitate trade and streamline processes.
• Customs Declarations & Documentation: Oversee the accurate and timely submission of customs declarations, working closely with internal and external stakeholders to ensure smooth and compliant border crossings.
• Cross-Border Operations: Collaborate with global and regional logistics teams to manage the complexity of cross-border trade, ensuring the efficient movement of goods while mitigating risks associated with customs and taxation.
• Process Improvement & Optimisation: Drive continuous improvement initiatives across all customs processes, identifying areas for optimisation and implementing solutions that enhance service delivery.
• Customs Software & Tools: Ensure the effective use of customs management systems and tools to automate processes, improve accuracy, and increase visibility of customs operations.
• Market Awareness & Trends: Stay abreast of changes in customs regulations, trade policies, and market trends, adapting strategies to mitigate risks and capitalise on opportunities.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Build and maintain strong relationships with customs authorities, clients, and internal teams to ensure smooth customs clearance and alignment with the company's broader logistics strategy.

The Candidate:

The successful candidate for the Customs Manager will have the following skills & experiences:

• A Logistics Distribution and Supply Chain Background - Essential.
• Degree educated, with a preference in Business Management, Economics, Supply Chain, Logistics, Engineering or Tax Law - Advantageous.
• Proven experience in a senior cross border customs leadership role, ideally within a 3PL, logistics or manufacturing environment - Essential.
• 5+ Years in-depth knowledge of customs regulations, compliance, and trade laws across multiple European countries - Essential.
• Strong understanding of AEO accreditation and experience in managing these relationships with customs authorities - Essential.
• Excellent leadership and people management skills, with the ability to lead large teams across multiple locations - Essential.
• Experience in process development, innovation, and driving continuous improvement within customs operations - Essential.
• Ability to develop and implement a strategic vision for customs compliance and operations - Essential.
• Exceptional communication and stakeholder management skills - Essential.
• Proficiency in customs management systems and associated software tools - Essential.
• Commutable to the Leicestershire area for 2-3 days per week - Essential.

The Package:

• Salary - £65,000 to £75,000
• Car Allowance (£5,000)
• Company Holiday Package
• Private Medical Insurance
• Death In Service Cover
• An opportunity to join a globally renowned logistics leader at a senior level

If you're ready to take your career to the next level and make a significant impact on this UK customs operations, this could be the perfect role for you!