Senior Manager, Trade & Custom

Role Purpose

The Senior Manager is accountable for the end-to-end management of import/export and customs compliance operations in APAC, while actively contributing towards the region’s trade strategy, regulatory risk mitigation and cost optimisation. In addition to regional responsibilities, the Senior Manager supports and collaborates closely with the Global Customs Director, ensuring alignment between APAC execution and global trade and customs initiatives/strategy.

Accountabilities

1. Strategic Trade & Customs Leadership
   • Lead the development and execution of trade and customs strategies aligned with global frameworks and business priorities.
   • Monitor evolving trade regulations and ensuring proactive risk mitigation and compliance across APAC.
   • Support the Global Customs Director in developing and cascading global customs strategies into regional execution.
2. Global Collaboration & Leadership Support
   • Act as the primary APAC liaison to the Global Customs Director.
   • Represent the APAC region in global trade initiatives, workstreams, and transformation projects.
3. Regulatory Affairs & Government Liaison
   • Represent the company in engagement with customs authorities, including IEAT, DFT, and other relevant agencies.
   • Influence policy and regulatory outcomes through participation in industry associations and forums.
4. Trade Compliance & Risk Management
   • Oversee all regional customs and trade compliance activities, including audits, investigations, and risk assessments.
   • Establish and maintain robust internal controls and foster a culture of compliance and ethical trade practices.
5. Logistics & Vendor Management
   • Lead strategic vendor selection, contract negotiation, and performance management of logistics and customs service providers.
   • Develop scalable, cost-effective logistics strategies that support business growth and operational resilience.
6. Transportation Management Systems (TMS) & Digital Integration
   • Own the regional roadmap for TMS and related systems in alignment with global digital initiatives.
   • Collaborate with IT and global stakeholders to drive automation, integration and process improvements.
7. People Leadership & Team Development
   • Build and lead a high-performing regional trade and customs team.
   • Develop talent through coaching, succession planning, and cross-border collaboration.
   • Foster an inclusive, performance driven team culture.
8. Budgeting & Cost Strategy
   • Develop long-term financial plans for trade operations, identifying cost savings and investment opportunities.
   • Ensure alignment between spending, ROI, and broader supply chain goals.
9. Performance Management & KPI Governance
   • Develop and monitor KPIs to drive performance, compliance, and customer satisfaction.
   • Lead regular business performance reviews, providing actionable insights and strategic recommendations.
10. Executive Representation & Special Projects
    • Represent the VP and APAC trade and customs team in leadership meetings and cross-regional working groups.
    • Lead strategic projects and transformation initiatives.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master's degree in Supply Chain, Logistics, Organization & Leadership, Finance and Economics, International Business
• 5-8 years of solid experience working within Supply Chain, Customs & government authorities related to import & export
• Experience from a similar leadership role
• Experience from retail, fashion or FMCG industry a plus
• Experience from global organization
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail and able to manage multiple tasks simultaneously
• Strong team player with good people, networking and communication skills
• Strong sense of urgency and responsibility
• Positive attitude
• A hunger for improvements and creating results
• Strong value chain capabilities and mindset
• Experienced with SAP and Microsoft Office Suite
• Good command of writing and speaking English