Customs Governance Specialist

Purpose

The Customs Governance Specialist plays a critical role in ensuring compliance with customs laws, regulations, and procedures. This position is responsible for overseeing customs-related processes, mitigating risks, and supporting the business in adhering to trade compliance requirements.

Key Responsibilities

Customs Compliance

• Serve as the primary point of contact for customs-related inquiries, including export controls, sanctions, and inward processing relief.
• Stay updated on changes in customs laws and regulations, conduct business impact analyses, and ensure compliance.
• Obtain and maintain customs authorizations and registrations.
• Handle customs audits, rulings, and JSOX/local controls, conducting risk assessments and implementing mitigation measures.
• Implement global customs strategies and guidelines, including process improvement initiatives and software updates.
• Ensure adherence to rules of origin for preferential certificates.
• Review and analyze key performance indicators (KPIs) and sample submissions from customs brokers.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Support the implementation of global customs strategies and compliance guidelines.
• Collaborate with business stakeholders on all customs-related projects.
• Assist management in the effective utilization of external customs consultants.
• Monitor and evaluate customs brokers’ performance.

System and Process Improvement

• Update and maintain local customs software.
• Identify gaps or inefficiencies in customs processes and implement improvements through cross-functional collaboration.

Audits, Litigation, and Risk Management

• Manage customs audits, disputes, and act as the single point of contact (SPOC) for local customs authorities.
• Conduct risk assessments and health checks to proactively address potential compliance issues.
• Execute JSOX/local controls and participate in internal audit exercises.
• Update the Indirect Tax Manual, including organizing change management meetings.
• Report on customs compliance and associated risks, including customs-related UTPs/provisions.

Other Responsibilities

• Support Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) accreditation and other customs-related initiatives as needed.

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Qualifications & Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Customs Administration, Supply Chain Management, Finance, Accounting, Economics, or a related field.
• Certification as a Customs Specialist (e.g., Certified Customs Specialist or Customs Broker License) is preferred.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in customs clearance, audit, and compliance, preferably in a multinational FMCG environment.
• Strong knowledge of:
  • Trade agreements (e.g., Free Trade Agreements, GATT, etc.)
  • Import/export regulations, procedures, and documentation requirements
  • Customs regulations and trade compliance procedures
• Excellent organizational, interpersonal, communication, and analytical skills.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, ERP, and customs management software.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to make sound decisions in dynamic situations.
• Established professional network, including connections with the Bureau of Customs and PEZA.

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