Customs Specialist UK

Driscoll's; Maidstone; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Customs Specialist to manage compliance with UK customs regulations and optimize logistics operations. This role involves ensuring accurate documentation, building relationships with stakeholders, and driving process improvements. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in customs and logistics, excellent communication skills, and the ability to work under pressure. Join a company that values humility, passion, and trustworthiness in delivering the finest berries to consumers worldwide. If you're ready to take on a dynamic role in a fast-paced environment, this opportunity is for you.

Qualifications

• 3-5 years of experience in customs compliance and logistics operations.
• Strong knowledge of customs procedures and regulations.

Responsibilities

• Ensure compliance with UK customs regulations and manage documentation.
• Build relationships with customs officials and internal teams.

Skills

Customs Compliance

Relationship Management

Problem-Solving

Organizational Skills

Communication Skills

Proactive Approach

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Logistics or Trade

Strong Experience in Customs and Trade

Job description

• Experience Years: 3-5 Years of Experience
• Employee Type: Regular
• Remote Type: Onsite

About the Opportunity

The Customs Specialist will be responsible for ensuring compliance with UK customs regulations, managing import/export documentation, and liaising with key stakeholders to facilitate smooth logistics operations. This role requires strong knowledge of customs procedures, excellent relationship management skills, and the ability to optimize supply chain efficiency while maintaining regulatory compliance.

Responsibilities

Customs Compliance and Documentation

• Ensure all shipping and customs documentation complies with UK regulations, including import/export requirements.
• Complete and submit duty entries, ensuring deadlines are met, particularly for Belfast.
• Administer and finalize export certificates while maintaining alignment with the Compliance team for accurate tracking and auditing.
• Supply SPV data to DEFRA, ensuring full compliance with government regulations.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of customs regulations and any potential changes that may impact operations.
• Provide advice to clearing agents and growers regarding restrictions, tariff systems, insurance requirements, and other customs-related matters.

Liaison and Relationship Management

• Build and maintain strong relationships with clearing agents, customs officials, shipping liners, and other suppliers.
• Work closely with internal teams, including operations, distribution, sales, and planning, to facilitate efficient delivery and supply chain execution.

Financial Administration and Cost Control

• Ensure that duty, tax, and logistics-related charges are accurate and up to date.
• Handle invoice charging queries and promptly resolve discrepancies.
• Record and track shipments, documentation, and payments to maintain financial accuracy.

Process Improvement and Strategy

• Drive continuous process improvements within customs and logistics operations to enhance efficiency and compliance.
• Maintain a proactive approach to customs procedures, anticipating potential challenges and proposing solutions.
• Foster a positive and proactive operational environment by encouraging efficiency-driven behaviours within the team.

Ad Hoc Duties

• Handle various ad hoc tasks related to import/export and supply chain as required.
• Stay informed about changes in customs regulations and ensure their implementation within the organization.

Candidate Profile

Education & training

• Bachelor’s degree as preference or strong experience in relevant fields: air and ocean logistics, Customs and Trade and DAX environment.

Experience

• 2 – 5 years of relevant experience in the Food / FMCG industry within Logistics and Trade department.
• Preferable working in an international dynamic environment.
• Experience in a similar role.

Skills & behaviours

• The candidate can manage hectic days, follow up on the strategic scenarios which are set up.
• Well organized, able to work independently and keep an overview.
• Provides proactive feedback to the manager on process changes/deviations & able to explain complex situations.
• Strong problem-solving skills.
• Proactive approach on process deviations and efficiency.
• Proactive input on regional meetings on order process topics.
• Excellent communication skills; linking pin between teams to ensure delivering results.
• Excellent English language skills (verbal and written).
• Ability to work under pressure.

Please note - Occasional weekend and evening shifts are part of the position.

About Driscolls

Driscoll's is the global market leader for fresh strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries. With more than 100 years of farming heritage and hundreds of independent growers around the world, Driscoll's is passionate about growing fresh, beautiful, and delicious berries. Our values of humility, passion, and trustworthiness have guided our mission to delight consumers around the world.

Driscoll's exclusive patented berry varieties are developed through years of research using only natural breeding methods – meaning, no GMOs. From farm-to-table, we focus on delivering a high-quality, premium berry experience with our many supply chain partners.

Driscoll's is the trusted brand for Only the Finest Berries.