Manager, Trade & Customs North America

thyssenkrupp; Troy (MI); On-site; USD 95,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

thyssenkrupp Automotive Technology North America is seeking a Manager, Trade & Customs to support the import/export compliance program in the region. You will coordinate with Legal, Compliance, sales, engineering, and supply chain to implement policies and maintain records.

Ideal candidate has 5+ years in trade compliance, a related degree, and strong knowledge of US import/export regs; USMCA, HTS, and a SAP/ERP background. Travel up to 10-15%.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in supply chain, international business, logistics, or related field.
• Licensed US Customs Broker or Certified Customs Specialist preferred.

Responsibilities

• Serve as primary resource on import, export, and trade compliance for divisions.
• Support development and maintenance of trade compliance policies and controls.
• Guide personnel in evaluating transactions for regulatory compliance.
• Assist with export licensing and classification reviews.
• Coordinate with customs brokers and regulatory agencies on shipments.
• Monitor regulatory developments and communicate updates to stakeholders.
• Prepare compliance reports and metrics for leadership.

Skills

Import/export regulations

US trade compliance

Regulatory analysis

Strong communication

Cross-functional collab

Education

Bachelor's degree in related field

Licensed US Customs Broker / Certified Customs Specialist preferred

Tools

SAP

Excel

Job description

thyssenkrupp is an international industrial and technology group with more than 93,000 employees. In the fiscal year 2024/2025, the company generated sales of around €33 billion in 48 countries. Its business activities are bundled in five segments: Automotive Technology, Decarbon Technologies, Materials Services, Steel Europe and Marine Systems. With extensive technological know-how, outstanding engineering competence and a high level of innovative strength, the group develops solutions for the challenges of the future, especially in the fields of climate protection and energy transition, digital transformation in industry and mobility of the future.

thyssenkrupp Automotive Technology is a global supplier and engineering partner to the automotive industry. We provide high-tech components, systems, and automation solutions designed to meet customer needs with top-tier quality and performance.

Our portfolio includes chassis technologies like steering and damping systems, axle assembly, and powertrain components for both traditional and alternative engines. We also develop body-in-white assembly systems and produce lightweight car body parts.

We cover the full value chain, from development and manufacturing to mechanical processing and system integration. Mechatronic solutions with in-house electronics and software are becoming increasingly central.

With strong technical expertise and a global footprint, we're a trusted partner delivering real value to our customers.

Your responsibilities

The Manager, Trade & Customs supports the administration and ongoing operation of the Company's North America import and export compliance program. Under the direction of the Director, this role assists with implementing compliance policies, monitoring compliance activities, providing guidance to divisional personnel, maintaining compliance records, and supporting import/export regulatory requirements. Responsible parties within the divisions maintain ownership for the execution of day-to-day compliance activities, while this position serves as a resource and coordination point for trade compliance matters.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Serve as a primary resource for divisional personnel regarding import, export, customs, and trade compliance requirements.
• Support the implementation and maintenance of trade compliance policies, procedures, work instructions, and internal controls to help ensure compliance with applicable import and export regulations.
• Provide guidance to divisional personnel in evaluating transactions and shipments for compliance with applicable trade regulations and company requirements.
• Support export licensing activities, including classification reviews, license application preparation, record maintenance, and coordination with regulatory agencies as needed.
• Assist with product classification, country-of-origin determinations, free trade agreement qualification reviews, and related import compliance activities.
• Review import and export documentation for completeness and regulatory compliance and provide feedback to responsible divisional personnel when issues are identified.
• Coordinate with customs brokers, freight forwarders, third-party logistics providers, and government agencies to address routine compliance matters and shipment issues.
• Monitor regulatory developments affecting international trade activities and communicate relevant updates to stakeholders.
• Assist in reviewing customer requirements, contracts, technical data, and other documentation that may present import or export compliance considerations.
• Support denied party screening and sanctions compliance activities and assist with escalation of potential compliance concerns.
• Maintain trade compliance records and documentation in accordance with company policies and applicable regulatory requirements.
• Assist with internal compliance reviews, audits, corrective action tracking, and process improvement initiatives.
• Collaborate with Legal, Corporate Compliance, business leaders, and divisional personnel to support compliance objectives and consistent application of company policies.
• Work with Sales, Engineering, Operations, Purchasing, Customer Service, IT, and Supply Chain teams to address trade compliance questions and support business operations.
• Assist in developing and delivering trade compliance training and awareness programs.
• Prepare compliance reports, metrics, and other information requested by leadership to support monitoring of the trade compliance program.

Your profile

Education

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, International Business, Logistics, Business Administration, or related field required. (Commensurate experience considered in lieu of degree)
• Licensed US Customs Broker, Certified Customs Specialist, or other trade compliance certifications preferred

Experience

• 5+ years of experience in trade compliance, global trade compliance, customs operations, international logistics, or as an importer/exporter.
• Automotive industry or manufacturing experience preferred.
• Experience supporting U.S. and Mexico customs operations preferred.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Working knowledge of U.S. import/export regulations, Free Trade Agreements (USMCA requirements), HTS classifications, and various required Customs documentation processes.
• Strong organizational and analytical skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills.
• Microsoft Office proficiency, especially Excel.
• ERP/SAP experience preferred.

Travel Requirements

Ability to travel domestically and internationally as needed (approximately 10-15%)

The [above] is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities, or requirements. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.