Job Description

Position Summary

The National Import Manager is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the companys customs brokerage operations, ensuring compliance with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and other government agency regulations. This role will provide strategic leadership to optimize brokerage processes, maintain strong client relationships, and ensure operational excellence across all import and export activities.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Strategy

• Lead and manage the Customs Brokerage department, including licensed brokers, entry writers, and compliance staff.
• Develop and implement strategic initiatives to improve efficiency, compliance, and profitability within brokerage operations.
• Collaborate with senior leadership to align brokerage strategies with overall company goals.

Regulatory Compliance

• Ensure compliance with all CBP regulations, Partner Government Agency (PGA) requirements, and trade laws.
• Maintain the companys Customs Brokerage license and oversee adherence to all corporate compliance programs.
• Stay current with changes in trade regulations, tariffs, and import/export policies; communicate updates internally and to clients.
• Manage internal audits, respond to government inquiries, and ensure proper recordkeeping.

Operational Excellence

• Oversee the timely and accurate processing of import and export entries.
• Evaluate and implement technology solutions to streamline brokerage workflows and documentation.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and develop action plans for continuous improvement.
• Partner with IT and finance teams to enhance automation, reporting, and billing accuracy.

Client Relations & Business Development

• Serve as a subject matter expert for clients, providing guidance on customs procedures, trade compliance, and tariff classifications.
• Support sales and account management teams in developing new business opportunities within the customs brokerage and trade compliance sectors.
• Lead client onboarding and ensure a high level of customer satisfaction through proactive communication and service excellence.

Team Development

• Recruit, train, and mentor staff, fostering a culture of accountability, professional growth, and regulatory excellence.
• Ensure all employees maintain current knowledge of customs regulations through continuous education and training.

Qualifications

Education & Licensing

• Bachelors degree in Supply Chain Management, International Business, or related field required.
• Licensed U.S. Customs Broker required.
• Additional certifications (e.g., CUSECO, CCS, CES) preferred.

Experience

• 10+ years of experience in customs brokerage, import/export compliance, or related logistics functions.
• 5+ years in a senior management or director-level role within a customs brokerage or freight forwarding organization.
• Proven experience managing brokerage operations and compliance programs for high-volume importers/exporters.

Skills

• Deep knowledge of U.S. import/export laws, HTS classification, valuation, and PGA requirements.
• Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills.
• Expertise in ACE, ABI systems, and brokerage software platforms (e.g., Descartes, WiseTech, CargoWise).
• Strategic thinker with the ability to translate regulatory complexity into practical solutions.

Performance Metrics

• Compliance audit scores and accuracy rates.
• Entry processing turnaround time and clearance efficiency.
• Customer satisfaction and retention.
• Revenue growth and profitability within the brokerage division.
• Employee training completion and retention rates.

Compensation and Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonus
• Comprehensive benefits package (health, dental, vision, 401(k), etc.)
• Professional development and continuing education support

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