Trade Compliance Specialist

Overview of Role:

The Trade Compliance Specialist will be responsible for ensuring the organization's adherence to all international trade laws and regulations. This role involves managing and monitoring export/import activities, conducting internal audits, and ensuring compliance with the U.S. and foreign government regulations. The specialist will also work cross-functionally with different departments such as logistics, procurement, and legal to ensure seamless operations while minimizing risks related to trade compliance.  The specialist will also serve as the key liaison between the company and regulatory bodies such as U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS).

Responsibilities;

• Initial focus on US based regulations and free trade agreements, a full review of all regulatory requirements and build a plan to target high priority regulations first


• Work close with Logistics and Imports and Exports team to assess all regulatory requirements for managing inbound and outbound logistics ensuring we optimize tariff codes


• Ensure all imports and exports comply with U.S. laws and regulations, including the Export Administration Regulations (EAR), International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), and U.S. Customs regulations.


• Oversee the preparation and management of required documentation for the import and export of goods, including shipping invoices, bills of lading, packing lists, and certificates of origin.


• Ensure correct Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and Export Control Classification Numbers (ECCNs) are assigned to all products.


• Manage global customs audits while partnering with in-country contacts


• Review and monitor contracts with third-party vendors to ensure adherence to trade compliance obligations.


• Identifying applicable duties and regulations applicable to our products including PGAs and antidumping/countervailing duties


• Manage all trade compliance requests from internal and external customers


• Respond to inquiries and audits from U.S. government agencies such as CBP and the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC).


• Proactively identify potential international regulatory and compliance risks


• Customs management - advise and support the business on product classifications, and all documentation and requirements required for customs, ensuring we comply with all customs law minimizing customs liability exposure.


• Record Keeping: Ensure appropriate reporting and record keeping in accordance with law requirements 


• Develop and manage compliance reports and key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the effectiveness of the trade compliance program.

Experiences and Qualifications:

• Minimum of 5 years in Trade Compliance Role with specific knowledge of US market


• Batchelors Degree in a related field


• Must have a minimum of one of CBP, CUSECO, CES, CCS or other relevant qualification with US customs management


• Strong understanding of HTS codes and experience in HTS classification


• Experience in applying rules of origin


• Experience in use and management of customs special regimes


• Experience with Customs and Import/Export Documentation


• Familiarity with filing Electronic Export Information (EEI) through AESDirect


• IT skills: proficiency in Excel, PowerPoint and Word

Who you are

• Analytical - Ability to interpret complex trade laws, regulations, and guidelines and apply them to real-world situations


• Attention to Detail: Accuracy is critical in preparing compliance reports, reviewing documentation, and ensuring that import/export activities are legally compliant.


• Collaborative – ability to engage extensive network of external and internal experts 


• Communication – must be able to effectively communicate in English in both written and verbal forms; must be able to communicate effectively with all levels in various organizations from transactional to senior management


• Process orientation –establish and follow structured processes for evaluating data, developing project scope, financial analysis, data reporting and supplier relationship management. 


• Problem-Solving Skills: Ability to identify compliance risks and create solutions to mitigate potential violations.


• Project Management: Managing compliance projects, audits, and training programs.

About Pens.com 

Pens.com's personalized promotional products are created for and inspired by small businesses. With 56 years of experience and serving 22 countries worldwide, Pens.com offers MORE value, savings and time to customers through expert guidance on a broad range of personalized promotional products, including writing instruments, stationery, drinkware, bags, gifts, and trade show accessories. Pens.com operates via a network of more than 10 facilities across North America, Europe, Africa, and Asia.​

To learn more, visit: www.PENS.com 

Pens.com is a National Pen and Cimpress brand (Nasdaq: CMPR).

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