Global Trade Compliance Manager

Manchester, England, gb on site Until 9/30/2026 First posted August 1, 2026 Last posted August 1, 2026
Job description

We are seeking a strategic and experienced Global Trade Compliance Manager to lead our international trade compliance program and ensure adherence to all customs, export control, and sanctions regulations across our global operations.

In this role, you will act as the organisation’s subject-matter expert, safeguarding the business from regulatory and reputational risk while enabling efficient cross-border trade. You will design and maintain a robust compliance framework, monitor evolving regulations, and embed best practices across the business.

You will oversee import/export compliance activities, including classification, valuation, origin, export licensing, and sanctions screening, while managing broker relationships and leading audits, disclosures, and corrective actions. A key focus will be identifying and mitigating risk, driving continuous improvement, and ensuring compliance is integrated into systems, processes, and decision-making.

Working cross-functionally with Legal, Supply Chain, Finance, IT, and Sales, you will promote a strong culture of compliance through training and stakeholder engagement. You will also lead and develop regional teams, set performance objectives, and manage external partners.

Key responsibilities:

  • Develop and maintain the global trade compliance framework
  • Ensure compliant import/export processes and accurate trade data
  • Manage export controls, sanctions, and licensing activities
  • Lead audits, risk assessments, and regulatory responses
  • Drive compliance training and awareness across the business
  • Embed controls into systems and improve processes through automation
  • Lead and develop global compliance teams

Success in this role will be measured by strong audit outcomes, minimal compliance risk, reduced trade disruption, and clear integration of compliance into business operations.

Essential

  • Extensive recent international experience of International Import & Export Regulations; Customs Authorities, Customs Brokers, Clearance Procedures, Export Licenses, ITAR, EAR.
  • Degree or equivalent professional qualifications
  • Professional Qualifications: Import /Export / International Trade Compliance Qualifications.

Desirable

  • Experienced in implementing AEO (Authorised Economic Operator) programmes
About this role

Summary

Lead global trade compliance, ensuring adherence to customs, export, sanctions, and risk management.

Job title

Global Trade Compliance Manager

Experience level

extensive recent international experience

Industry

trade compliance

Location requirements

Manchester, England, gb; on-site with remote options

Salary

Not specified

Management role

Yes

Skills & keywords

Required skills

import/export regulationscustomsexport controlsanctions screeninglicensingrisk assessments

Preferred skills

AEO implementation

Specializations

import export regulationscustomsexport controlsanctions
Locations

Structured locations inferred from the posting.

Manchester, UK

On-site City