Senior Customs & Trade Compliance Manager
Location: Germany (Hybrid)
Industry: Retail / Consumer Goods
Level: Senior Manager
Function: Customs, Trade Compliance, Import/Export, Global Trade
About the Role
We're supporting a leading retail organisation in Germany that is expanding its global supply chain and strengthening its Customs & Trade Compliance capabilities. As part of this growth, we are seeking an experienced Senior Customs & Trade Compliance Manager to lead the company's customs strategy, regulatory adherence, and cross‑border trade operations across key markets.
This is a fantastic opportunity to step into a high‑impact, visible role shaping compliance frameworks, driving optimisation, and supporting the business through continued international expansion.
Key Responsibilities
As Senior Manager, you will own and elevate the company's Customs & Trade Compliance function. Your responsibilities will include:
Strategic Leadership
* Develop, implement, and continuously improve customs & trade compliance strategies across Germany and EU operations
* Act as the primary point of contact for customs authorities, external partners, and internal senior stakeholders
* Lead initiatives related to regulatory changes, risk mitigation, and compliance governance
Operational Excellence
* Oversee import/export processes to ensure full alignment with German law, EU customs legislation, and the Union Customs Code (UCC)
* Manage HS classification, valuation, preferential origin, and tariff optimisation
* Supervise customs declarations and documentation, ensuring accuracy and efficiency
Compliance Maturity & Governance
* Drive internal audits, controls, and compliance monitoring
* Lead or support AEO certification, renewals, and related improvement programs
* Ensure robust record‑keeping and documentation in line with legal standards
Process & Cost Optimisation
* Identify and implement customs duty-saving opportunities and process efficiencies
* Support digitalisation and automation projects within customs operations
* Collaborate cross‑functionally with Supply Chain, Logistics, Finance, Procurement & Legal
Leadership & Stakeholder Management
* Mentor and support junior and mid‑level compliance specialists
* Provide clear guidance, training, and communication to wider business teams
* Partner with senior leadership to influence strategic decisions and supply chain design
About You
Required Experience
* 7+ years of experience in Customs, Trade Compliance, Import/Export, or Global Trade roles
* Strong knowledge of EU customs law, UCC regulations, and German customs procedures
* Advanced experience with HS classification, origin, valuation & customs optimisation
* Proven success interacting with customs authorities and managing audits
* Previous experience in retail, consumer goods, or high-volume supply chain environments preferred
Skills & Attributes
* Strategic thinker with detail-oriented compliance mindset
* Ability to influence stakeholders across all business levels
* Strong analytical skills and process improvement mindset
* Excellent communication skills in German and English
* Experience leading projects or teams
What's On Offer
* 📌 Hybrid working in Germany/Austria
* 📈 Critical leadership role within a growing organisation
* 🌍 Exposure to global supply chain expansion projects
* 🤝 Collaborative culture with strong investment in compliance
* 🚀 Opportunity to build and shape the future of the function
How to Apply
If you're a senior-level customs & trade compliance professional looking for your next step in a dynamic retail environment, we'd love to hear from you.
Please send your CV or reach out directly for a confidential discussion.