Trade Compliance Manager

The
Trade Compliance Manager – Customs & Foreign-Trade Zone (FTZ) is responsible for ensuring compliance with U.S. import regulations and managing all customs and FTZ-related activities. This includes oversight of customs brokerage operations, tariff classification, FTZ administration, and continuous improvement of trade compliance programs. The successful candidate will be a hands-on expert in U.S. Customs regulations, 19 CFR Part 146, and logistics processes, capable of leading cross-functional initiatives and maintaining direct relationships with regulatory agencies and trade partners.

• Manage day-to-day interactions with U.S. Customs & Border Protection (CBP) and licensed customs brokers.
• Ensure accurate classification (HTS), valuation, and country of origin declarations for all imports.
• Oversee documentation for entries, including protests, post-entry corrections, drawback claims, and reconciliations.
• Monitor customs bond requirements and ensure bond sufficiency is maintained.
• Serve as the designated FTZ Administrator for the company’s activated FTZ site(s).
• Ensure strict adherence to 19 CFR Part 146 and oversee zone operations including:
• Zone admissions (CBP Form 214)
• Status designation and weekly entry filings
• Recordkeeping and Inventory Control & Recordkeeping System (ICRS) compliance
• Liaise with CBP, Port Director, and FTZ Grantee regarding compliance, audits, and inspections.
• Train staff and business partners on FTZ operations and compliance obligations.
• Develop, implement, and manage company-wide trade compliance policies and SOPs.
• Conduct internal audits, identify risks, and execute corrective action plans.
• Lead preparation for CBP Focused Assessments, FTZ reviews, and other regulatory audits.
• Track legislative or regulatory changes and implement necessary updates to compliance programs.

• Work closely with Procurement, Logistics, Legal, IT, and Operations to embed trade compliance into end-to-end supply chain processes.
• Support new product introductions and supply chain changes impacting FTZ or customs.
• Collaborate with Finance and external advisors on duty-saving strategies and cost optimization.

• Bachelor’s degree in International Business, Supply Chain, Logistics, or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in customs compliance and FTZ management.
• Strong working knowledge of U.S. import regulations, HTS classification, and FTZ operations.
• U.S. Customs Broker License strongly preferred.
• Experience managing CBP audits, regulatory filings, and compliance programs.
• Excellent organizational, analytical, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficient in MS Office and trade compliance systems (e.g., ACE, SAP GTS, Integration Point, or similar).
• Experience in manufacturing or distribution environments.
• Familiarity with free trade agreements (e.g., USMCA), duty deferral strategies, and bonded operations.
• Ability to influence and train cross-functional teams on compliance matters.