Head of Practice - Customs & Trade Compliance

Head of Practice – Customs & Trade Compliance Recruitment Executive Search | Global Logistics | Remote (UK or Europe) Build a practice from the ground up We are an executive search business specialising in the global logistics market. We're launching a dedicated Customs & Trade Compliance recruitment practice and are looking for a founding Head to build it. Tariffs, sanctions, origin rules and shifting trade regimes have pushed customs and trade compliance from a back-office function to a boardroom priority. Logistics providers, freight forwarders, 3PLs, brokers and shippers all need senior compliance leaders, and they struggle to find them. This role is your chance to become the go-to name for that talent. The role This is a true build opportunity. You will have the autonomy to design the practice, set its strategy and grow it into a global desk. You'll be both a hands-on headhunter and a business builder. You will: Own the strategy, positioning and growth plan for the Customs & Trade Compliance practice Win and deliver retained and exclusive senior and executive searches across the global logistics sector Build deep relationships with Heads of Customs, Trade Compliance Directors, Chief Compliance Officers, VPs of Global Trade and the leaders who hire them Map the market and develop a trusted network of senior candidates and clients worldwide Advise clients on talent strategy, market trends, compensation and organisation design within trade compliance Establish the practice's brand through thought leadership, events, industry bodies and networking Recruit, coach and lead future consultants and researchers as the desk scales Work closely with leadership and colleagues across other practices to cross-sell and collaborate About you Proven track record in executive search or senior-level recruitment, with a strong network in customs, trade compliance or international trade within logistics, freight forwarding, supply chain or a closely related sector Credibility with senior stakeholders: you can hold your own with a CEO, CFO or Chief Compliance Officer A business development mindset, with evidence of winning and growing client relationships An entrepreneurial, self-starting approach and comfort building without a playbook Deep understanding of the compliance landscape (customs regulation, tariffs, export controls, sanctions, AEO and similar programmes) Excellent communication, judgement and discretion Experience in the logistics industry as a practitioner or adviser to it Prior experience building or leading a desk or practice, and managing a team Exposure to specialist verticals such as life sciences, pharma or energy What we offer Genuine ownership and autonomy to shape a global practice Fully remote working from the UK or Europe, with occasional travel to clients and events Competitive base salary plus uncapped performance-related earnings Clear progression as the practice grows #J-18808-Ljbffr RS Global Search Partners