Lead and refine trade compliance operations in Germany with a focus on EU regulations governing military, strategic, and dual-use goods. This role is central to maintaining compliance across customs, export controls, and audit functions, ensuring alignment with both European and international standards.
Key Responsibilities
- Streamline customs and export control processes across regions, with a focus on efficiency and adherence to regulatory requirements.
- Design and enhance compliance programs covering export controls, Incoterms, product valuation, country of origin, and tariff classification in accordance with EU and global trade laws.
- Assign accurate Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) codes and Export Control Classification Numbers (ECCN) based on EU Dual-Use Regulation (Council Regulation (EC) No 428/2009).
- Review product specifications to determine proper ECCN and HTS classifications, working closely with engineering, legal, and product teams to ensure accurate licensing and documentation.
- Track changes in EU customs, dual-use, and sanctions regulations, and update internal procedures to maintain compliance.
- Identify opportunities for duty savings through strategic classification and effective use of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs).
- Coordinate with customs officials, logistics providers, and freight forwarders to ensure timely clearance and prevent disruptions to supply chain operations.
- Maintain comprehensive records of customs submissions, classification decisions, and compliance documentation, including filing Binding Tariff Information (BTI) applications when necessary.
- Advise on licensing obligations for controlled items, including screening for restricted destinations and end-users.
- Deliver training through documented procedures, webinars, and workshops; support internal and external audits related to ECCN and HTS classifications.
- Lead Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) initiatives, manage large-scale audits, and support broader compliance programs.
- Conduct internal audits of customs documentation, classification records, and filings to verify regulatory adherence.
- Identify inconsistencies, potential violations, and areas for process improvement.
- Prepare audit reports with findings and recommend corrective actions.
- Review duties, taxes, and fees for accuracy and compliance.
- Provide guidance and training to internal stakeholders on customs, export controls, and audit requirements.
- Support investigations into non-compliance incidents and assist in implementing corrective measures.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in International Trade, Business, Logistics, Law, or a related field.
- 8–10 years of experience in customs compliance, trade regulations, and export control classification, with at least 3 years focused on European military and strategic goods.
- Strong understanding of EU dual-use, customs, and sanctions regulations.
- Proven ability to interpret complex regulatory frameworks and apply them in operational contexts.
- Experience interacting with government agencies and regulatory authorities.
- Excellent analytical, communication, and leadership abilities.
- High ethical standards and experience handling sensitive and confidential data.
- Fluency in English; additional European languages (e.g., German, French, Spanish, Dutch) are an advantage.
- Advanced degree preferred.
Preferred Experience
- Background in semiconductor, aerospace, or defense industries.
- Familiarity with compliance tools such as SAP GTS, Descartes, or QlikView.
- Knowledge of U.S. re-export controls (ITAR, EAR) as applied in Europe.
- Experience with AEO or Known Consignor programs.
- Experience integrating compliance automation tools with ERP systems.
Work Environment
Position based in Germany with up to 10% travel required. Role supports local compliance operations with regional impact. The organization values integrity, confidentiality, and continuous improvement in a diverse and inclusive environment.
