Import Compliance Specialist (Hiring Immediately)

JR United Kingdom; Slough; On-site; GBP 49,000 - 66,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company is seeking an Import Compliance Specialist in Slough. This role involves overseeing customs operations, ensuring compliance with regulations, and managing import/export processes. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in international trade compliance and experience with customs systems. The position offers competitive salary and benefits, including extensive training and flexible work arrangements.

Benefits

35 days holiday

10% in-store discount

Pension scheme

Gym

Employee Assistance Programme

Flexible work arrangements

Qualifications

• Customs qualifications to Advanced level preferred.
• Experience with customs bonded warehousing and import/export operations.

Responsibilities

• Support customs compliance within the Customs & Imports team.
• Manage customs transactions and develop user functions.
• Conduct quarterly internal audits and prepare reports.

Skills

Attention to detail

Advisory experience

Knowledge of international customs regulations

Education

Degree in International Trade Compliance

Tools

SAP GTS

MicroStrategy

Job description

Import Compliance Specialist (Hiring Immediately), Slough

Client: Lidl

Location: Slough, United Kingdom

Job Category: Other

EU work permit required: Yes

Job Description:

Salary & Benefits: £49,500 up to £66,000 per annum | 35 days holiday (pro rata) | 10% in-store discount | Pension scheme

At Lidl, everyone brings something unique, but we share common values: assertiveness, adaptability, and going the extra mile to support our team. Our customs department offers an exciting opportunity for a Customs Consultant / Business Process Expert to join us. You will oversee the operation of the Customs systems and audit dashboard, working closely with the Customs Team Manager and Tax colleagues.

Your responsibilities include advising on import activity compliance, managing KPI reporting, ensuring adherence to HMRC and Border Force regulations, and developing Customs audit and Excise reporting to provide excellent service to stakeholders. You will handle various duties across the import and export process, including shipment tracking and resolving system issues.

What You'll Do:

1. Support customs compliance within the Customs & Imports team to ensure full regulatory adherence.
2. Utilize expert knowledge of SAP GTS and data analytics tools like MicroStrategy to manage customs transactions and develop user functions.
3. Maintain and develop data interfaces with external stakeholders and brokers.
4. Serve as a subject matter expert on all import operations and customs compliance issues.
5. Assess costs and risks related to international trade, including tariffs, duties, and taxes.
6. Proactively resolve queries and system errors, ensuring compliance of documentation and updates from HMRC and Border Force.
7. Conduct quarterly internal audits and prepare reports, suggesting digital improvements.
8. Ensure accurate and timely declarations using the Customs CDS system.
9. Plan and manage import/export projects and ad hoc events.
10. Assist in compiling quarterly compliance audits.

What You'll Need:

• Degree in International Trade Compliance or equivalent; customs qualifications to Advanced level preferred.
• Advisory and audit experience with HMRC or large consultancies is desirable.
• Strong knowledge of international customs regulations, trade agreements, and duties optimization.
• Experience with customs bonded warehousing, Excise, and import/export operations, especially in retail/FMCG sectors.
• Technical proficiency in SAP GTS and MicroStrategy tools.
• Experience with SPS controls and BTOM controls is advantageous.
• Attention to detail for accurate data presentation to internal and external stakeholders.

What You'll Receive:

We offer extensive training, career progression opportunities, and a competitive starting salary from £49,500 with potential earnings up to £66,000. Additional benefits include:

• On-site amenities: gym, restaurant, car parking with electric charging.
• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP).
• Flexible work arrangements, including hybrid working.

Join Lidl to celebrate diversity and grow in a respectful, inclusive environment. Visit our benefits page for more details.