Business Process Expert

ZipRecruiter; London; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the UK retail sector is looking for a Customs & Trade Compliance Specialist to enhance their import operations. The role requires strong technical knowledge and compliance skills to ensure regulatory adherence and efficient operations. Success in this role involves overseeing customs processes, monitoring broker performance, and leading audits.

Qualifications

• In-depth knowledge of UK customs and excise regulations.
• Strong experience in high-volume, regulated environments.
• Familiarity with SPS or BTOM controls is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily customs compliance operations and audits.
• Monitor broker performance and customs declarations.
• Drive improvements in customs reporting through digital tools.

Skills

Analytical skills

Attention to detail

Education

Degree in international trade or related field

Professional qualifications (MCIEx or equivalent)

Tools

SAP GTS

MicroStrategy

Job description

Job Description

Our client, a major player in the UK retail sector, is seeking a Customs & Trade Compliance Specialist with strong technical knowledge and a systems-driven mindset to join their expanding import operations team.

This role is ideal for someone with deep customs experience, a proactive approach to compliance, and strong familiarity with tools like SAP GTS and MicroStrategy. You'll play a key role in overseeing audits, managing broker performance, and ensuring full regulatory compliance across all import/export activities.

The Role:

• Oversee daily customs compliance operations, ensuring all processes meet current HMRC and Border Force requirements.
• Monitor and analyse broker performance and customs declarations (including CDS and supplementary entries).
• Act as a subject matter expert for import controls, excise regulations, and international trade risks.
• Lead quarterly internal audits covering import/export activity, excise, SCDP, and AEO compliance.
• Maintain and develop systems integrations (e.g. IPAFFS, Webservices) with external brokers and internal platforms.
• Troubleshoot declaration issues including CDS errors, duty/VAT code mismatches, and hold-ups from authorities.
• Collaborate with internal tax and legal teams to maintain best-in-class audit trails and compliance records.
• Drive improvements in customs reporting through digital tools, enhancing accuracy and efficiency.

Requirements:

• Degree or professional qualifications in international trade, customs, or related field (MCIEx or equivalent ).
• In-depth knowledge of UK customs and excise regulations, including bonded warehousing and duty management.
• Strong experience working in high-volume, regulated environments – ideally in retail, logistics, or FMCG.
• Proficiency with SAP GTS and business intelligence platforms (e.g., MicroStrategy or similar).
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail, especially in preparing documentation for audits or regulatory review.
• Familiarity with SPS or BTOM controls is a plus.