VP, Global Customs Compliance and Trade Relations

The opportunity:

Reporting to the SVP Customs, Trade, Regulatory Compliance & Financial Services, we're looking for a VP of Global Customs Compliance and Trade Relations to a) keep Flexport and our clients in compliance with the ever-changing government regulations concerning import and export globally; and b) build relationships with governments and intergovernmental agencies (WCO and WTO) regarding the future of customs and trade laws, regulations and policies. Additionally, partner with a public sector business to facilitate the opportunity to serve governments as a vendor via Flexport’s Customs & Trade Advisory solutions.  

In this role, you’ll set the vision and strategy for Flexport Customs Compliance globally. You’ll be responsible for implementing strategic plans and objectives that align with Flexport’s strategies and overseeing a team that supports customs compliance and government needs.  You’ll work closely with Customs Operations and Trade Advisory providing oversight and regulatory expertise. As a technology driven company we are looking for someone that will be able to implement new customs compliance solutions to increase our overall level of compliance while leveraging modern technology solutions to allow for deeper insight into all compliance activity. Additionally, this leader will collaborate closely with the VP NA Trade Relations, VP of Public Sector and Head of Government Relations on Flexport’s demand team to assess opportunities for engaging policymakers globally, build relationships, define joint roadmap, and leverage our existing and future solutions (initially built for Importers & Exporters and internal/external Custom Brokers) to also support Governments’ customs clearances needs. 

You will:

• Run a global customs compliance program, policies, procedures, and controls to ensure company-wide compliance in accordance with guidelines of the several customs authorities worldwide

• Evaluate current import/export practices to identify risks and gaps with trade & customs  compliance regulations globally

• Establish a continuous customs compliance improvement philosophy and identify and oversee improvement projects

• Provide subject matter expertise both internally and externally, on the business impacts of various customs policies and/or proposed policies

• Partner with the public sector demand organization to compete for trade facilitation vendor opportunities

• Partner with communication and marketing to provide external thought leadership regarding global trends in customs and how Flexport will remain a leader in the industry 

You should have:

• 20+ years of professional experience working in customs brokerage or trade compliance globally 

• A leadership track record of 20+ years of progressively increasing responsible experience leading global teams, developing global staff and leveraging technology to enable business process efficiency

• In-depth knowledge and understanding of trade regulations and application to real-world customs brokerage issues in multiple jurisdictions

• Excellent business, operational, analytical and strategic planning skills with demonstrated strong attention to working in a highly collaborative culture 

• Ability to lead through influence in a team-oriented, dynamic and complex diversified environment

• In-depth knowledge  and understanding of security & compliance frameworks such as CTPAT & AEO

• Excellent written and oral communication and presentation skills, including being able to present to all levels of an audience, including public speaking

• Strong interpersonal communication skills that inspire, motivate and build trust, and result in effective working relationships with colleagues and business partners

About Flexport:

At Flexport, we believe global trade can move the human race forward. That’s why it’s our mission to make it easy and accessible for everyone. We’re shaping the future of a $8.6T industry with solutions powered by innovative technology and exceptional people. Today, companies of all sizes—from emerging brands to Fortune 500s—use Flexport technology to move more than $19B of merchandise across 112 countries a year. 

The recent global supply chain crisis has put Flexport center stage as we continue to play a pivotal role in how goods move around the world. At a valuation of $8B, we’re experiencing record growth and are proud to have the support of the best investors in the game who believe in our mission, solutions and people. Ready to tackle global challenges that impact business, society, and the environment? Come join us.