Director, Trade Compliance

Job Summary:

The Director of Trade Compliance is responsible for leading and overseeing the company’s global trade compliance program, ensuring adherence to all applicable import and export regulations. This role partners closely with internal leadership, the Trade Compliance Manager (TCM), and third-party customs brokers to ensure accurate, timely, and compliant international trade operations.

The Director will drive strategic compliance initiatives, mitigate regulatory risks, optimize duty exposure, and ensure the organization operates in full compliance with U.S. and international trade laws, including EAR, OFAC, and BIS requirements.

Key accountabilities:

• Develop, implement, and continuously enhance the global trade compliance program.
• Establish policies, procedures, and internal controls to ensure compliance with U.S., UK/EU, and international trade regulations.
• Serve as the subject matter expert on export controls, including EAR, OFAC sanctions, and BIS regulations.
• Provide strategic guidance to executive leadership on trade compliance risks, mitigation strategies, and business impacts.
• Oversee classification management, including HS, HTS, Schedule B, and ECCN for all part numbers within the master database.
• Ensure proper documentation, valuation, and country-of-origin determinations for all imports.
• Provide clear instructions to freight forwarders and customs brokers to ensure smooth customs clearance.
• Lead export compliance activities, including licensing determinations, screening, and documentation requirements.
• Conduct end-use and end-user reviews to ensure compliance with export control regulations.
• Assess transshipment and diversion risks and implement controls to mitigate exposure.
• Lead internal audits, investigations, and compliance assessments.
• Monitor and interpret regulatory changes and ensure timely implementation across the organization.
• Identify and implement strategies to minimize duty and tax exposure.
• Collaborate with Finance and Operations to optimize unit pricing structures and duty savings opportunities.
• Manage duty relief programs, including drawbacks and other applicable mechanisms.
• Develop and deliver trade compliance training programs for relevant internal stakeholders.
• Promote a culture of compliance and accountability across all business units.
• Maintain up-to-date documentation of policies, procedures, and regulatory guidance.
• Partner with the Trade Compliance Manager and manage relationships with third-party customs brokers and logistics providers.
• Support high-volume inbound and outbound shipment activities with a focus on accuracy and timeliness.
• Provide expert guidance in escalated or complex compliance matters, exercising sound, risk-based decision-making.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

Key Skills and Competences:

• Strong analytical and risk-based decision-making capabilities
• Ability to independently assess complex regulatory issues and provide executive-level recommendations
• High attention to detail and accuracy under pressure
• Advanced proficiency in data management and Excel
• Excellent communication skills, including the ability to influence senior leadership
• Proactive mindset with strong ownership and accountability
• Ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced, global environment

Experience and Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree preferred (or equivalent experience); advanced certifications in trade compliance are a plus
• Minimum of 5+ years of experience in trade compliance, with progressive responsibility (10+ preferred for director level)
• Strong expertise in:
  • EAR (Export Administration Regulations)
  • OFAC sanctions compliance
  • BIS regulations and enforcement
  • End-use and end-user screening
  • Transshipment and diversion risk analysis
• Extensive knowledge of:
  • ITAR and U.S. import/export regulations
  • UK/EU import requirements
  • Tariff classification, customs valuation, and country of origin rules
  • INCOTERMs and international logistics processes
• Proven experience managing customs brokers and third-party logistics providers
• Experience in the aviation industry is strongly preferred
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• High degree of professionalism, integrity, and sound judgment
• Proven experience with duty relief management, tariff classification, customs valuation and customs origin.