Trade Compliance Specialist

Position Summary

The Trade Compliance Specialist ensures that all international trade activities comply with applicable laws, regulations, and internal policies. This office‑based role focuses on managing import/export operations, maintaining HMRC Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) accreditation, determining Country of Origin (COO), handling dual‑use licensing applications, and supporting global trade compliance initiatives. The position also assists with logistical arrangements across road, sea, air, and courier transport to ensure smooth and compliant supply chain operations.

• Import/Export Compliance
  • Oversee daily import/export operations to ensure adherence to customs regulations and internal controls.
  • Prepare and review shipping documentation including commercial invoices, packing lists, and customs declarations.
  • Monitor and maintain records of import/export transactions for audit and reporting purposes.
• HMRC AEO Accreditation & Audits
  • Maintain compliance with HMRC AEO accreditation requirements.
  • Prepare for and support external AEO audits, ensuring documentation and processes meet HMRC standards.
  • Implement corrective actions and continuous improvement initiatives to safeguard accreditation.
• Country of Origin (COO) Determinations
  • Analyze product components and manufacturing processes to determine accurate COO under applicable rules.
  • Maintain COO documentation and support supplier declarations and customer inquiries.
  • Collaborate with procurement and engineering teams to validate COO data.
• Dual‑Use Licensing & Export Controls
  • Identify products subject to dual‑use regulations under UK/EU export control laws and international regimes.
  • Prepare and submit export license applications for controlled goods and technologies.
  • Maintain awareness of embargoes, sanctions, and restricted party lists; conduct screening and risk assessments.
• Logistics & Supply Chain Support
  • Assist with planning and coordinating transport arrangements across road, sea, air, and courier services.
  • Liaise with freight forwarders, customs brokers, and logistics providers to ensure compliant and timely shipments.
  • Support supply chain risk management by identifying potential compliance or transport bottlenecks.
• Regulatory Monitoring & Policy Development
  • Stay current with changes in global trade regulations, including customs, export controls, and sanctions.
  • Develop and update internal trade compliance policies and procedures.
  • Provide training and guidance to internal teams on trade compliance topics.
• Audit & Risk Management
  • Support internal and external audits related to trade compliance.
  • Identify and mitigate risks in supply chain and trade operations.
  • Implement corrective actions and continuous improvement initiatives.

• 3–4 years of experience in trade compliance, preferably in a multinational environment covering Trade, Supply Chain, Law, or related field.
• Strong knowledge of UK/EU customs regulations, export controls, and dual‑use goods.
• Direct experience with HMRC AEO accreditation processes and audits.
• Familiarity with COO determination methodologies and global trade classification systems (e.g., HS/UKGT codes).
• Experience coordinating logistics across multiple transport modes (road, sea, courier).
• Experience with trade compliance software and ERP systems (e.g., SAP GTS, Oracle GTM).
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills.

• Attention to Detail – meticulous in reviewing documentation and ensuring compliance with complex regulations.
• Problem‑Solving – able to identify risks and propose practical solutions in fast‑moving trade and logistics environments.
• Communication – strong written and verbal skills to liaise effectively with HMRC auditors, logistics providers, and internal teams.
• Collaboration – team‑oriented, with the ability to work cross‑functionally across supply chain, procurement, engineering, and legal departments.
• Adaptability – comfortable working in a dynamic environment with frequent regulatory updates and operational challenges.
• Integrity – demonstrates high ethical standards and a commitment to compliance and transparency.

• Audit confidence –…