Trade Compliance Manager Malaysia

MR DIY TRADING SDN BHD; Seri Kembangan; On-site; MYR 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading retail company in Malaysia is seeking a Trade Compliance Manager to oversee logistics operations and ensure adherence to import/export regulations. The ideal candidate should have at least 6 years of experience in regulatory compliance, preferably in FMCG, and possess strong leadership and problem-solving skills. Proficiency in English and basic Chinese communication will be advantageous. This position involves collaboration with various stakeholders and driving continuous improvement initiatives.

Qualifications

• Minimum 6 years of experience in import/export regulations and regulatory compliance.
• Industry exposure to FMCG (e.g. food, retail) is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Manage import and export operations, customs clearance.
• Lead Malaysia Trade Compliance and logistics operations.
• Establish strategies to improve logistics efficiency.
• Manage communication with internal/external legal counsel.
• Provide trade compliance training to ensure adherence to regulations.

Skills

Strong knowledge of customs requirements

Leadership skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving skills

Fluent in written and spoken English

Basic Chinese communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in any discipline

Job description

Key Responsibilities

• Manage import and export operations, customs clearance, and coordination with vendors and agents to meet business needs while maximizing efficiency and minimizing costs.
• Lead Malaysia Trade Compliance and logistics operations covering all import/export activities.
• Establish, develop, and implement strategies to improve logistics operational efficiency.
• Determine, review, and audit origin, HS/HTS classification, and applicability of Trade Agreements to achieve duty savings in a compliant manner.
• Manage and maintain communication with internal/external legal counsel and government agencies to mitigate financial and legal risks related to trade compliance.
• Provide trade compliance training to the business to ensure adherence to regulations and best practices, reducing exposure to fines and penalties.
• Stay updated on trade regulations, assess internal impact, and provide implementation plans to global teams.
• Identify logistics issues and promote efficiency through practical solutions and value-added recommendations.
• Lead, coach, and manage team members to maintain high morale and performance.
• Drive transformation and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance logistics operations.
• Support new business expansion in collaboration with Business Development and Operations teams.
• Manage key stakeholders across the business to align on supply chain, logistics challenges, risks, and opportunities.
• Communicate and collaborate with internal functions (Warehouse, Procurement, Retail Operations, Business Development, etc.) on site-level and country-level projects.
• Liaise with government bodies (MITI, Customs, regulatory authorities) and 3PLs on licenses, permits, and regulatory updates, ensuring business-wide awareness.
• Ensure logistics KPIs are met and that people, processes, and systems are in place to support performance.
• Oversee Joint-Venture projects involving regular communication with China customers, ensuring progress monitoring and delivery of results.

Requirements

• :Bachelor’s Degree in any discipline
• .Strong knowledge of customs requirements, HS classification, rules of origin, FTA studies, customs valuation, and global trade compliance
• .Minimum 6 years of experience in import/export regulations and regulatory compliance
• .Industry exposure to FMCG (e.g. food, retail) is preferred
• .Strong leadership, analytical, and problem-solving skills
• .Fluent in written and spoken English
• .Basic Chinese communication skills are an advantage