Trade and Compliance Officer

Job Summary:
The Trade & Compliance Officer is responsible for ensuring full compliance with all import and export rules, regulations, and company policies. This role involves conducting audits, addressing compliance gaps, implementing best practices, and acting as the primary point of contact in the event of investigations by regulatory or enforcement authorities. The role is critical for safeguarding the company's operations and reputation in the freight forwarding industry.
Key Responsibilities:
Regulatory Compliance:
Ensure adherence to global trade regulations, including customs laws, embargoes, sanctions, and trade agreements.
Monitor compliance with import and export control laws across all operational activities.
Audit and Risk Management:
Conduct regular audits to verify adherence to international trade laws, company policies, and operational standards.
Identify and mitigate compliance risks through proactive measures.
Review shipping documentation, including commercial invoices, bills of lading, and certificates of origin, for compliance accuracy.
Investigation Response:
Serve as the primary contact during any regulatory or enforcement investigations.
Compile and submit required documentation, evidence, and responses to authorities promptly and accurately.
Coordinate with legal counsel and relevant departments to address inquiries and resolve compliance-related issues.
Policy Development and Implementation:
Develop, update, and enforce compliance policies to align with changes in regulations.
Ensure that internal procedures and practices meet international compliance standards.
Training and Awareness:
Provide training programs to educate staff on compliance responsibilities, regulatory requirements, and ethical practices.
Promote a culture of compliance and proactive risk management within the organization.
Sanctions and Embargo Screening:
Verify transactions against sanctioned lists, embargoed goods, and restricted destinations.
Oversee KYC (Know Your Customer), end-user certification, and other compliance-related documentation.
Reporting and Documentation:
Prepare compliance reports and maintain comprehensive records of compliance activities.
Escalate and report compliance breaches or risks to senior management.
Collaboration and Advisory Role:
Liaise with customs brokers, legal teams, and regulatory authorities to ensure smooth compliance operations.
Provide advisory services to internal teams on trade compliance matters, including HS Codes, duties, and documentation requirements.
Qualifications and Skills:
Educational Background:
Bachelor’s degree in Law, Business Administration, International Trade, or a related field.
Experience:
Minimum 5 years of experience in compliance, investigations, or risk management within freight forwarding or logistics.
Technical Expertise:
Strong understanding of global trade laws, Incoterms, HS Codes, and customs clearance processes.
Experience in handling compliance investigations and communicating with enforcement agencies.
Key Competencies:
Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills.
Strong written and verbal communication, especially under high-pressure situations.
Proactive and detail-oriented with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
Certifications (Preferred):
Certified Compliance and Ethics Professional (CCEP) or similar credentials.
Certification in Import/Export Compliance or International Trade Compliance.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs):
Audit compliance rate.
Response time to investigations.
Reduction in compliance-related penalties or incidents.
Employee training completion and retention rates.