Director of Global Trade Compliance
We’re partnering with an industry-leading organization seeking a Director of Global Trade Compliance to build upon an established compliance program and provide executive-level leadership across all import and export activities. This is a highly visible leadership opportunity for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, enjoys solving complex regulatory challenges, and can confidently advise senior leadership on the business impact of international trade decisions.
Responsibilities:
As the leader of the trade compliance function, you’ll oversee a multi-disciplinary team responsible for maintaining regulatory compliance while supporting business growth across domestic and international operations.
- Direct and develop a team of trade compliance professionals, fostering accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
- Drive the organization’s import and export compliance strategy while ensuring adherence to U.S. Customs regulations and export control requirements.
- Evaluate changes in government regulations, tariffs, sanctions, and trade policies, translating new requirements into practical business processes.
- Partner with executive leadership to identify compliance risks and develop solutions that support operational objectives.
- Provide guidance on customs valuation, duties, tariffs, taxes, and other trade-related costs that influence financial performance.
- Develop and enhance compliance programs, internal controls, policies, and training initiatives across the organization.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams including Legal, Finance, Supply Chain, Operations, and Executive Leadership to ensure compliance is integrated into business decisions.
- Present compliance updates, risk assessments, and strategic recommendations to senior executives.
- Lead regulatory audits, investigations, and compliance initiatives while maintaining a culture of operational excellence.
- Travel within the U.S. to support business operations, compliance initiatives, and leadership meetings as needed.
Qualifications:
We’re seeking an experienced leader who combines technical trade compliance expertise with strong business judgment and executive communication skills.
Preferred qualifications include:
- 10+ years of progressive experience in international trade, customs, import/export compliance, or a related discipline.
- Active Licensed Customs Broker (LCB) credential strongly preferred.
- U.S. export compliance certification is a plus.
- Comprehensive knowledge of U.S. import regulations, export controls, customs requirements, and international trade laws.
- Experience interpreting evolving regulatory requirements and implementing organization-wide compliance strategies.
- Proven success leading and developing high-performing teams in a complex business environment.
- Strong understanding of how trade compliance decisions impact operational costs, profitability, and overall business performance.
- Exceptional communication and presentation skills with the ability to influence executive stakeholders.
- Strategic mindset with the ability to balance regulatory requirements and business objectives.
- Willingness to travel regularly to support multiple business locations.
Travel: Approximately 40–50%