Customs Manager

ROCK IT CARGO; Ajax; On-site; CAD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A global logistics provider in Ajax, Ontario, is seeking an experienced Customs Broker Manager. The role demands expertise in Canadian customs regulations, particularly concerning large-scale events. Responsibilities include leading the customs brokerage team, ensuring compliance with regulations, and acting as a liaison for key clients. The ideal candidate holds a Customs Broker certification and has a solid background in logistics management. Competitive benefits and a dynamic work environment are offered.

Benefits

Generous PTO package

Comprehensive health plans

401(k) match

Paid parental leave

Continuing Education Reimbursement

Charitable Donation Matching

Qualifications

• 5–7 years of customs brokerage experience, with at least 2 years in a leadership role.
• Experience with CARM, including regulatory compliance.
• Proven ability to manage time-sensitive shipments.

Responsibilities

• Lead customs brokerage operations and manage the team.
• Ensure compliance with CBSA regulations for customs declarations.
• Act as primary point of contact for international event organizers.

Skills

CBSA regulations knowledge

Strong communication skills

Leadership experience

Detail-oriented

Organizational skills

Education

Licensed Customs Broker certification

Job description

Overview

GCL (Global Critical Logistics) is a market leader in two expansive logistics and project management sectors across the globe: live events (live music, sports and broadcasting, film and TV, experiential events and exhibitions) and luxury goods (fine art, automotive, fashion). The company began in 1978 and includes Rock-it Cargo, Dietl, CARS, SOS Global, Dynamic International and more. GCL’s premier team manages bespoke global logistics through end-to-end services including multimodal freight, event logistics planning, and custom storage and distribution solutions, supported by a global network with over 10,000 missions a year. GCL is the chosen provider for reliability and efficiency where failure is not an option for a customer’s most prized events and possessions.

We are seeking a seasoned Customs Broker Manager with in-depth experience in Canadian customs regulations, particularly CBSA’s CARM (CBSA Assessment and Revenue Management) initiative, to oversee and manage customs brokerage operations for large-scale sporting events, entertainment productions, and international exhibitions. The ideal candidate will act as a strategic advisor to high-profile clients, ensuring seamless import/export processes, regulatory compliance, and efficient logistics planning.

Key Responsibilities

• Customs Brokerage Operations: Lead and manage the day-to-day operations of the customs brokerage team.
• Ensure all customs declarations and documentation comply with CBSA regulations and other relevant agencies.
• Oversee the classification, valuation, and origin determination of goods in accordance with CBSA guidelines.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of tariff codes, duty rates, and applicable trade agreements.
• CARM Integration & Compliance: Act as the in-house subject matter expert on CARM requirements and implementation.
• Ensure client and internal CARM portal registrations are up to date.
• Train internal teams and clients on CARM processes including Release Prior to Payment (RPP), financial security requirements, and account management.
• Monitor and ensure accurate account balances and reconciliation under CARM.

• Client Liaison & Advisory: Act as a primary point of contact for key clients, including international event organizers and production companies.
• Provide consultative advice on customs procedures, documentation, temporary imports (ATA Carnets, E29B), and duty relief programs.
• Develop and implement custom brokerage strategies to ensure timely and compliant cross-border movement of goods.
• Coordinate pre-clearance planning for complex international shipments and high-volume movements.

• Event & Production Logistics Support: Collaborate with logistics and freight teams to coordinate customs clearance timelines with event/production schedules.
• Liaise with government agencies and CBSA officers on behalf of clients for special import/export permissions, temporary entries, and post-entry adjustments.
• Support customs planning and execution for major sporting events, film and television productions, touring shows, and cultural exhibitions.

• Team Leadership & Development: Supervise a team of customs brokers and support staff, including training, performance reviews, and workflow management.
• Develop SOPs and best practices to enhance operational efficiency and compliance.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement and regulatory awareness.

Qualifications

• Licensed Customs Broker certification in Canada (required).
• Minimum 5–7 years of customs brokerage experience, with at least 2 years in a leadership or management role.
• Demonstrated experience with CARM, including registration, onboarding, and financial management.
• Proven track record supporting international sporting events, live entertainment productions, or large-scale global logistics operations.
• Strong understanding of Canadian import/export regulations, temporary import mechanisms, and special permits.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work with high-profile clients and diverse stakeholders.
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage time-sensitive shipments under pressure.

Don’t meet every single requirement? We are dedicated to building an inclusive, authentic workplace, so if you’re excited about this role but your experience doesn’t align perfectly with every qualification, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.

What GCL Will Offer You

GCL offers a growing logistics environment backed by an award-winning global parent company in the entertainment and luxury import/export logistics industry, providing unrivaled experience and expertise for live events, touring, sports, luxury auto and art freight forwarding. Our teams serve as premier freight forwarders handling some of the world’s biggest concerts, festivals, and sporting events for high-profile clients across the music and sports industries to make the greatest shows possible.

Work with some of the most well-known companies in the world. Your work will make an impact and be appreciated by others.

Benefits & Perks

• Recharge & Reset: Enjoy a generous PTO package with 18 vacation days, 2 floating holidays, 7 sick days, and 11 paid holidays annually.
• Your Health, Our Priority: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans with employer contributions to your HSA if you choose a high-deductible plan, plus telemedicine and mental health support.
• Financially Fit: 401(k) match and employer-funded insurance (Basic Life, AD&D, Short-Term and Long-Term Disability).
• Family Matters: Generous paid parental leave for all parents.
• Perks with a Purpose: Continuing Education Reimbursement, Charitable Donation Matching, and occasional free tickets to client events.
• Culture Club: Regular company events, such as birthday lunches, sports outings, volunteer opportunities, and more.
• Optional Add-Ons: Supplemental insurance options and pet insurance through MetLife.
• Sweet Savings: Potential discounts on home and auto insurance.

GCL is committed to inclusion and will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring process. If accommodations are needed, please contact us. GCL provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants regardless of legally protected characteristics under applicable law.