Head of Trade Compliance

You will get the exciting opportunity to make an impact across a specialist defence and aerospace environment while developing your career in global trade compliance.

This is a senior opportunity to shape compliance strategy, strengthen governance and support international operations in a highly regulated industry.

• British nationality is required for this role.
• Significant senior-level experience in trade compliance, export controls, customs or international trade within a multinational or highly regulated environment.
• Strong working knowledge of UK, European Union and United States trade regulations and controls.
• Proven experience designing and implementing enterprise-level compliance frameworks.
• Experience engaging with regulatory authorities and leading audits, investigations or regulatory disclosures.

Up to £100,000, with the opportunity to develop your career within a specialist defence and aerospace organisation.

• Develop and lead a global trade compliance strategy aligned with business objectives and regulatory requirements.
• Establish effective policies, standards and governance frameworks across international operations.
• Act as the senior subject matter expert on complex trade compliance risks, regulatory change and operational requirements.
• Oversee licensing strategies and ensure appropriate controls across import, export, customs, sanctions and trade controls.
• Identify and reduce compliance risks through audits, reviews, investigations and corrective actions.
• Embed practical, risk-based compliance advice into commercial activity, supply chain, engineering, product development and international growth.

• Strategic leadership experience with strong commercial awareness and the ability to influence senior stakeholders.
• Expertise in interpreting complex trade regulations and translating them into clear operational guidance.
• Strong analytical and risk-based decision-making skills with sound professional judgement.
• Experience leading and developing specialist compliance teams and building organisational capability.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to work effectively across technical, commercial and operational functions.
• A degree or relevant professional qualification in law, international trade, supply chain, business or a related discipline would be advantageous.

The employer supports you through a comprehensive benefits package including pension support, performance-related incentives, private healthcare options, electric vehicle benefits, technology discounts and wellbeing initiatives.

You will join a specialist organisation operating at the intersection of defence, aerospace and advanced technical operations. The work offers genuine scope to influence international trade compliance at a strategic level while supporting a highly regulated business with meaningful operational impact. You will also have opportunities to develop your technical expertise, lead specialist teams and contribute to the continued evolution of a complex global compliance environment.

Bournemouth, Dorset, with a hybrid working pattern. This is a full-time, permanent position.

The employer is committed to equal opportunities and values diversity in the workplace.