Global Customs Operations Leader

Kuehne+Nagel; Birmingham; Hybrid; GBP 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Kuehne+Nagel in the UK is seeking a senior operational leader to shape the future of our customs business across more than 40 countries. This role focuses on operational excellence, productivity, technology adoption, outsourcing, and sustainable growth.

You will collaborate with operations, technology, sales and compliance to lead large-scale change initiatives, build high-performing teams and deliver measurable business results.

Qualifications

• 15+ years of experience in logistics, freight forwarding, customs, shipping, supply chain or related operations.
• Proven leadership experience managing international teams and driving transformations.
• Strong business acumen with experience managing budgets, costs or P&L responsibilities.
• Proven track record delivering productivity improvements and large-scale transformation programs.
• Strong analytical capabilities converting data into business decisions.
• Experience leading complex cross-functional projects in an international matrix organization.
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication, with ability to influence at all levels.
• Fluent English; additional European languages are an advantage.

Responsibilities

• Lead and continuously improve customs operations across a global network, driving consistency and excellence.
• Deliver productivity gains through process optimization, automation and technology-enabled transformation.
• Drive outsourcing and centralization of standardized customs activities with internal shared service teams.
• Identify, develop and implement innovative operational solutions supporting growth and scalability.
• Support onboarding of new customs business opportunities ensuring smooth operational implementation.
• Build strong relationships with customers and internal stakeholders delivering value-added solutions.
• Lead cross-functional projects across operations, technology, sales, business development and compliance.
• Inspire and develop teams while fostering accountability and continuous improvement.

Skills

Leadership

Stakeholder management

Analytical

English fluent

Job description

Kuehne+Nagel in the UK is seeking a senior operational leader to shape the future of our customs business across more than 40 countries. This role focuses on operational excellence, productivity, technology adoption, outsourcing, and sustainable growth.

You will collaborate with operations, technology, sales and compliance to lead large-scale change initiatives, build high-performing teams and deliver measurable business results.