Import Export Controller

Job Description

Salary Range: £38,000 - £48,000

Leonardo UK operates a grade-based salary framework with broad bands. The salary range shown reflects the approved grade band for this role, or a narrower hiring range published within that band, and is benchmarked against the external market. Exceptions above the standard range are managed through governance controls to protect internal equity.

At Leonardo UK, we deliver advanced technologies that help keep people and nations safe. Across the UK, our teams design, develop and support a diverse range of innovative aerospace, defence and security solutions — from airborne radar and targeting systems to infrared detectors, camera systems, cyber and physical security technologies, and rotary aircraft used for commercial, public utility and defence applications.

We are currently seeking a Import/Export Controller to join the team at our Edinburgh site. In this role, you will support the Import/Export function by coordinating customs instructions, maintaining accurate records and assisting with reporting and audit preparation. Working closely with internal stakeholders, freight agents and customs brokers, you will help ensure that import and export activities are conducted in line with UK customs requirements and Leonardo procedures.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to develop their knowledge of trade compliance and international logistics within a collaborative team environment at the heart of a global aerospace and defence organisation.

This is a Hybrid role is based at our Edinburgh site and will requires on site attendance at the Edinburgh site.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Submission of Import and Export customs instructions to agents in accordance with UK customs regulations and company procedures to facilitate customs declarations, including:
• Ensuring that the correct export licences are applied to outgoing shipments and that records for export licence usage are correctly maintained on the company systems.
• Liaising with business to ensure correct and accurate clearance instructions can be issued to agent/import broker
• Instructing freight agent/ broker in accordance with business requirements
• Checking clearance information provided by agent/broker to ensure Leonardo instructions have been followed
• Checking customs entries following goods departure and address anomalies (with reference to site Trade Compliance lead)
• Addressing any anomalies identified (with reference to site Trade Compliance lead)
• Notifying business of import clearance conditions
• Develop an understanding of the Customs Declaration Service (CDS)
• Preparation of data packs relating to import and export transactions in readiness for internal and external audits, ensuring packs are recorded on company systems in accordance with company procedures
• Assisting with the preparation of reports for submission to UK authorities (such as Deferment reports and export licence transparency reports)
• Assisting with processing and reconciling Freight Forwarder invoices

• Experience supporting multiple stakeholders or customers, with the ability to prioritise workload and manage competing demands effectively
• A self-motivated approach with high personal work standards and strong attention to detail
• The ability to work collaboratively as part of a team, demonstrating supportive and cooperative behaviours
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills, enabling you to work effectively with colleagues and external stakeholders
• Proficiency in Microsoft Outlook and solid working knowledge of Microsoft Office, particularly Word, PowerPoint and Excel
• A high level of professionalism, with the confidence to interact with senior managers and external organisations
• The ability to handle sensitive information with discretion and integrity
• A keen willingness to learn and develop knowledge in import/export processes and trade compliance within Leonardo UK

This is not an exhaustive list, and we are keen to hear from you even if you might not have experience in all the above. The most important skill is a good attitude and willingness to learn.

This role is…