Customs Compliance Manager

Job Description

Job Description

We are looking for a Customs Compliance Manager to lead import compliance efforts for our organization in Chesapeake, Virginia. This role oversees regulatory adherence across U.S. import activities, supports internal teams with trade guidance, and helps maintain strong relationships with customs authorities and external partners. The ideal candidate brings deep knowledge of U.S. Customs requirements and can balance strategic program oversight with hands-on operational support.

Responsibilities:

• Direct and enhance the company’s U.S. import compliance framework, including program implementation, training initiatives, and ongoing monitoring of regulatory adherence.

• Advise internal teams and external partners on tariff classification, country of origin, product marking, and admissibility requirements to support compliant import activity.

• Lead audit and review activities for import purchase orders, identify issues or inconsistencies, and communicate corrective guidance to business partners and service providers.

• Monitor inbound shipment activity each day and coordinate with customs brokers, government agencies, and other stakeholders to address clearance or documentation concerns.

• Review customs entry documentation to confirm goods are declared correctly and meet applicable U.S. Customs and partner government agency standards.

• Track compliance exceptions, prepare regular summaries of findings, and drive follow-up actions to resolve issues in accordance with established procedures.

• Manage responses and submissions involving U.S. Customs and related agencies, including rulings, information requests, redelivery matters, post-entry updates, and formal protests.

• Oversee participation in trusted trader and supply chain security programs, including Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism initiatives and related trade compliance activities.

• Provide timely analysis and recommendations regarding tariffs, regulatory developments, and shifting trade conditions that may affect sourcing and import operations.

• Support the day-to-day work of the import function by sharing critical information with internal departments and helping ensure efficient logistics coordination.

• Bachelor’s degree in business or a related discipline; an advanced degree is preferred.
• At least 7–10 years of experience in international trade, import compliance, or global logistics with strong exposure to U.S. Customs regulations and procedures.
• Demonstrated expertise in the Harmonized Tariff Schedule, including General Rules of Interpretation and Explanatory Notes.
• Active U.S. Customs Broker License is required.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Proficiency with standard computer applications and the ability to manage detailed compliance documentation accurately.
• Solid understanding of import operations, cargo movement, and supply chain coordination within a regulated environment.