Branch Manager

POSITION SUMMARY

The Branch Manager is responsible for the overall leadership, performance, and compliance of the JFK branch — a high-volume customs brokerage and freight forwarding operation. This is a senior, high-visibility role with full accountability for P&L performance, regulatory compliance, operational excellence, and talent development. The Branch Manager will serve as the primary point for all import operations (air and ocean), customer relationships, and strategic growth initiatives at the branch level.

As a Licensed Customs Broker, the Branch Manager will also oversee CHB compliance programs, serve as the compliance lead for all entries processed through the branch, and ensure the branch maintains full audit readiness in accordance with U.S. Customs and Border Protection regulations and all applicable international trade laws

.
RESPONSIBILITI

• ESLead and manage all branch operations including air and ocean import, customs clearance, and freight forwarding activities — ensuring efficiency, accuracy, and on-time delive
• ryOversee end-to-end import entry processing, ISF filings, and post-entry management in full compliance with CBP requiremen
• tsDevelop, implement, and maintain Branch Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and a Licensed Customs Broker (CHB) audit progr
• amNegotiate with carriers, truckers, and vendors to optimize pricing, routing, and service leve
• lsOversee consolidation strategies, routing, and carrier relationships to maximize cost-effectiveness and service quali
• tyEnsure full compliance with all applicable U.S. Customs and international trade regulations, including HTSUS, EAR, ITAR, ISF, AD/CVD, Section 232/301 tariffs, and CBP directiv
• esServe as the branch's compliance authority — leveraging Licensed Customs Broker credentials to oversee classification decisions, binding rulings, and complex compliance matte
• rsMaintain audit readiness at all times; lead internal audits and coordinate with CBP and other government agencies as requir
• edStay current on evolving trade regulations, duty changes, and import policy developments; communicate impacts to staff and clients proactive
• lyParticipate in industry associations (NCBFAA, etc.) and maintain professional development of CHB licen
• seOwn full P&L performance for the branch — driving revenue growth, margin improvement, and cost optimizati
• onOversee budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting; present performance results to regional leadersh
• ipIdentify and implement process improvements that reduce costs, improve billing accuracy, and enhance overall financial performan
• ceLeverage operational and financial data to drive decision-making and continuous improvement initiativ
• esServe as senior escalation point for key clients on complex import, classification, compliance, and logistics matte
• rsPartner with Sales to support business development, strengthen existing customer relationships, and participate in client visits and RFP respons
• esDrive client retention and satisfaction through consistent, high-quality service delivery and proactive communicati
• onIdentify opportunities to expand services with existing accounts and support new business acquisiti
• onLead, coach, and develop a cross-functional branch team across import operations, customs brokerage, and customer servi
• ceConduct performance appraisals, manage employee relations, and oversee hiring, onboarding, disciplinary actions, and terminations in coordination with
• HREstablish and enforce KPIs, creating accountability around service levels, productivity, and financial performan
• ceBuild succession plans and develop future leaders within the bran
• chFoster a culture of safety, compliance, continuous improvement, and high performan

ce
QUALIFICATI

• ONSActive U.S. Licensed Customs Broker (CHB) issued by U.S. Customs and Border Protection — requi
• redBachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Logistics, Transportation, International Business, or a related fi
• eld5-7+ years of progressive experience in customs brokerage, freight forwarding, or international logistics operati
• onsDeep knowledge of U.S. import regulations, HTSUS classification, ISF, and trade compliance frameworks (EAR, ITAR, AD/CVD, Section 232/3
• 01)Demonstrated P&L ownership experience including revenue growth, budgeting, and cost managem
• entProven ability to manage carrier, vendor, and government agency relationsh
• ipsStrong client-facing presence with experience resolving complex compliance and operational iss
• uesExperience with NVOCC operations, including consolidations and routing strat
• egyProficiency in CargoWise or comparable logistics/customs management platf
• ormMembership or active participation in NCBFAA or related industry associati
• onsExperience overseeing multi-modal operations (air and ocean impo