Senior Manager, Trade & Customs – South America

Senior Manager, Trade & Customs – South America

The Senior Manager, Trade & Customs – South America is responsible for overseeing and managing all import and export trade and customs compliance functions across the South American region. This role ensures adherence to local and international trade regulations, optimizes customs processes, and drives cost efficiencies while mitigating risks. The role serves as the subject matter expert for customs regulations, trade compliance policies, and cross-border operations within the region.

Key Responsibilities

Trade & Customs Compliance

• Oversee all customs clearance activities for imports and exports across South America, ensuring full compliance with local regulations and international trade laws.
• Develop and maintain policies and procedures for trade compliance, in line with corporate standards.
• Monitor regulatory changes and implement updates to processes accordingly.
• Manage and safeguard the use of free trade agreements, duty drawback programs, and other customs/tax incentives available in the region.

Operational Management

• Partner with internal stakeholders (Supply Chain, Logistics, Procurement, and Finance) to ensure smooth and compliant cross-border movement of goods.
• Liaise with customs brokers, freight forwarders, and relevant authorities to ensure timely clearance and delivery of goods.
• Develop KPIs for customs clearance cycle times, compliance accuracy, and cost optimization.

Strategic Initiatives & Cost Optimization

• Identify and execute opportunities to minimize import/export duties and taxes through effective classification, valuation, and origin determination.
• Implement process improvements to streamline trade operations and reduce costs without compromising compliance.

Leadership & Stakeholder Engagement

• Lead, mentor, and develop the Trade & Customs team within South America.
• Provide training and guidance to internal teams on customs and trade compliance requirements.
• Represent the company in industry associations and with government agencies to influence trade policy when relevant.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in International Business, Supply Chain, Logistics, or related field; Master’s degree is a plus.
• Minimum 10 years of experience in trade compliance, customs, or import/export operations, with at least 5 years in a managerial role.
• Understanding of South American customs regulations and international trade agreements is an advantage.
• Proven experience working with free trade agreements, customs valuation, HS classification, and origin rules.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to manage and develop multi-country teams.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills in English and Thai

Argyll Scott Asia is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.