Customs Manager

Our client is a market-leading global freight forwarder with a strong reputation for compliance, operational excellence, and customer service. With an established and growing presence in Minneapolis, they provide end-to-end international logistics solutions across air, ocean, and customs services.

Position Overview

The Customs Manager is responsible for overseeing all U.S. customs brokerage operations, ensuring full compliance with CBP regulations while driving efficiency, accuracy, and service quality. This role leads customs operations, manages compliance programs, and acts as the primary point of contact for regulatory matters, customers, and internal stakeholders.

The ideal candidate brings deep customs expertise, leadership experience, and a proactive approach to risk management and process improvement.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage day-to-day customs brokerage operations for air and ocean imports
• Ensure full compliance with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations and trade laws
• Oversee customs entry filings, classification, valuation, duty calculations, and PGA requirements
• Serve as the company’s subject matter expert on customs compliance and regulatory changes
• Develop, implement, and maintain internal compliance procedures and SOPs
• Manage and mentor customs staff, including training and performance development
• Act as primary contact for CBP, auditors, and government agencies
• Conduct internal audits and oversee corrective action plans
• Support clients with compliance guidance, rulings, and trade advisory services
• Collaborate closely with import operations, sales, and global offices to ensure seamless service
• Monitor KPIs, productivity, and service levels while driving continuous improvement
• Support onboarding of new customers and complex accounts

Qualifications & Experience

• 5+ years of U.S. customs brokerage experience
• Prior experience in a supervisory or management role
• Strong knowledge of HTS classification, valuation, Incoterms, ADD/CVD, and PGA requirements
• In-depth understanding of CBP regulations, compliance programs, and audit processes
• Experience working within a freight forwarding or licensed customs brokerage environment
• Strong leadership, communication, and decision-making skills
• High attention to detail with the ability to manage risk and resolve complex issues

Preferred Qualifications

• Licensed Customs Broker (LCB) highly preferred
• Experience managing customs operations within a high-volume environment
• Exposure to CTPAT, ISA, or other trusted trader programs
• Strong analytical and reporting capabilities

What’s on Offer

• Competitive salary with leadership-level compensation
• Full-time onsite leadership role in the Minneapolis office
• Opportunity to lead and shape customs operations within a market-leading organization
• Clear long-term career growth and stability