Trade Compliance Lead
Tunbridge Wells Area | £35,000 - £40,000 + Benefits
Contact: Ollie at Pearson Whiffin Recruitment
Are you an experienced Trade Compliance professional with hands-on bonded warehouse knowledge and a strong understanding of international customs regulations?
Do you enjoy working in a fast-paced FMCG environment where no two days are the same?
Are you looking for a role where you can take ownership, influence improvements and develop your career within a growing international operation?
If so, we'd love to hear from you.
Our client is a successful and well-established international FMCG business undergoing an exciting period of transformation and growth. As part of their continued investment in operations and compliance, they are seeking a Trade Compliance Lead to oversee customs compliance activities and bonded warehouse operations.
Working closely with operational teams, freight partners and customs authorities, you will play a key role in ensuring goods move efficiently and compliantly across global markets, with particular exposure to the Middle East and US.
Responsibilities:
- Oversee day-to-day bonded warehouse activities, ensuring compliance with all customs requirements.
- Manage import and export processes across international markets.
- Liaise with freight forwarders, customs brokers, courier providers and regulatory bodies.
- Ensure accurate customs declarations, commodity codes, duties and VAT treatments.
- Investigate and resolve customs-related issues and discrepancies.
- Maintain audit-ready records and compliance documentation.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives across trade compliance processes.
- Work collaboratively with operational and commercial teams to ensure smooth movement of goods globally.
- Provide guidance and support to two Trade Compliance Operators within the team.
Requirements:
- Previous experience within Trade Compliance, Customs, International Logistics or Import/Export operations.
- Essential experience working within a bonded warehouse environment.
- Strong understanding of customs regulations, declarations, duties, VAT and commodity classifications.
- Experience dealing with Middle East and/or US customs processes, tariffs and international trade requirements.
- Ability to build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
- Strong organisational skills with excellent attention to detail.
- A collaborative approach with the confidence to provide guidance and support to others.
- Experience within a high-volume distribution, retail, e-commerce or FMCG environment would be highly advantageous.
What's in it for you?
- Opportunity to join a stable, growing international business.
- Supportive and collaborative culture with genuine opportunities for progression.
- Exposure to global trade operations across key international markets.
- Chance to influence and improve processes as the business continues its transformation journey.
- 23 days annual leave plus bank holidays.
- Health cash plan, EAP, Cycle to Work scheme and additional benefits package.
This role is being handled by Ollie Burnie at Pearson Whiffin Recruitment.
Not quite the right role but still looking?
Whether entry level or executive, our experienced recruitment team can help you take the next step in your career. As one of Kent’s leading independent recruitment consultancies, we pride ourselves on delivering an exceptional service to both candidates and clients.
Find us on Facebook and Instagram @PearsonWhiffinRecruitment.
By working with us, you’ll also be helping support charities across Kent – we’ve raised over £50,000 so far!
METPERM
Pay: £35,000.00-£40,000.00 per year
Application question(s):
- Do you have hands-on experience managing compliance within a bonded warehouse environment?
- Have you been responsible for import/export customs processes involving either the US, Middle East, or both?
- Are you comfortable working in a fully office-based role in the Tunbridge Wells area?
Work Location: In person
