Job Abstract

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Manager of Trade Compliance to oversee and manage our company's global trade compliance program. Reporting to the VP of Customer Fulfillment, the Senior Manager of Trade Compliance will be responsible for ensuring that all import and export activities comply with relevant laws, regulations, and company policies. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership abilities, in-depth regulatory knowledge, and a proven track record of developing and implementing effective trade compliance strategies. This role is crucial for ensuring that 5.11's import and export activities are conducted legally and efficiently while minimizing the risk of penalties, fines, and reputational damage.

*Ideal candidates will live in or near Manteca, CA or Costa Mesa, CA*

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Responsible for overseeing and managing 5.11’s compliance with international trade regulations, laws, and policies.
• Provide guidance on upcoming and current trade compliance regulations and operations, enabling the business to navigate complex international regulatory landscape.
• Developing and implementing trade compliance policies, procedures, and best practices based on current international trade regulations, laws, and policies to ensure the company's adherence to relevant laws and regulations.
• Responsible for Global Customs compliance program (import & export), focused on the US, but also integrated with EU, AU, China & HKG.

• Point of contact for 5.11 global sites on export compliance questions, government inquiries, government reporting, and all other applicable areas of trade controls.
• Oversight of Restricted Party Screening process for 5.11 globally.
• Ensure the company operates under “best practices” in meeting Customs and other government agency regulation programs around the globe.
• Management over 5.11’s Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) to ensure compliance with all US Customs laws and regulations. Coordinate with IT, cross-functional partners, and ICRS system provider to ensure processes & system transactions meet compliance needs and are captured and recorded correctly.
• Management over 5.11’s Duty Drawback program with US Customs. Lead duty recovery efforts in coordination with our external drawback business partner.
• Management over 5.11’s First Sale for Export program with US Customs. Lead duty recovery efforts in coordination with our external business partners and internal Asia business colleagues.
• Coordination of product development components related to duty exposure, capture of all dutiable expense, education of the organization on compliance activities and maintenance of the compliance procedural documents.
• Conduct regular assessments and compliance audits of import and export activities to identify compliance risks and opportunities for improvement.
• Conducts risk assessments to identify potential compliance vulnerabilities and developing strategies to mitigate these risks effectively.
• Lead the product classification process and maintain centralized classification and rulings on current and new products.
• Recordkeeping for inbound and outbound shipments in all key 5.11 offices.
• Develops and implements processes to address potential violations of trade compliance regulations, including reporting to relevant authorities and taking corrective actions.
• Effectively manage, coach and train direct report(s)
• Educates employees and relevant stakeholders within the organization about trade compliance regulations, denied party screening process, and how to ensure their activities are in line with these regulations.
• Keep senior management informed of key trade compliance metrics, trends, and developments.
• Other duties and projects as assigned.

Competencies: To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies:

• The candidate must have a deep understanding of international trade regulations, including but not limited to customs laws, export controls, sanctions, embargoes, and trade agreements. The candidate will stay updated on changes to these regulations and assess the impact on the company’s operations.
• Must have relative knowledge in the following technical areas: Import Classification; Trade Agreements; Valuation; Broker Compliance; Duty Drawback; Bonds; FTZ/Bonded Warehouse; Warehouse Entries; Intellectual Property Rights; Export Classification; Export licensing and Restricted Party Screening
• Exhibits track record of sound judgment. Effectively communicates reasoning for decisions; Includes appropriate people in decision-making process; Makes timely decisions.
• Demonstrates accuracy and thoroughness; Reacts well under pressure; Assesses own strengths and weaknesses; Accepts responsibility for own actions; Treats people with respect and consideration.
• Strives to continuously build knowledge and skills.
• Strong sense on integrity and the ability to maintain confidentiality of sensitive matters.
• Remains open to other’s ideas; Shares expertise with others; Gives and welcomes feedback; Applies feedback to improve performance; Contributes to building a positive team spirit.
• Strives to increase productivity; Completes tasks correctly and on time; Uses time efficiently; Aligns work with strategic goals; Looks for ways to improve and promote quality; Displays orientation to profitability.
• Self-starter with a strong work ethic, capable of taking ownership of and drive/manage complex, cross-functional projects.

Qualifications & Skills: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required.

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in business, international trade, law, supply chain or related field required. Master’s degree or relevant certifications preferred.
• Minimum seven plus years’ experience as trade professional in high volume distribution fulfillment centers and international operations.
• Proven track record of progressive responsibility in trade compliance, international trade law, customs or related field; developing and implementing trade compliance programs and initiatives.
• Certified Customs Broker license and/or Certified Export Specialist preferred.
• Experience and expertise in FTZ laws and regulations as well as import and export (duty drawback) U.S.& EU Customs compliance procedures.
• Expertise in USHTS Section X1 and chapters 42, 61, 62 and 64 required, along with Free Trade Agreements (e.g. USMCA, CAFTA) rules and regulations.
• Product HTS and ECCN classifications, valuations, and Country of Origin determinations for apparel products and the like.
• Experience in CBP C-TPAT program, ISA, Customs Audits, and Duty Savings Strategies.
• Strong leadership skills to manage a team responsible for trade compliance activities with a minimum of five years’ experience in people management.
• Meticulous attention to detail is crucial to ensure accurate classification, documentation, and reporting.
• Experience in apparel industry preferred.

Regulatory Knowledge: In-depth knowledge of relevant trade regulations, such as the Export Administration Regulations (EAR), International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Customs regulations, and sanctions programs.

Communication with Government Agencies: Builds and maintains relationships with relevant government agencies and customs authorities to facilitate smooth communication, address inquiries, and resolve any compliance-related matters.

Language Skills: English – Well organized communication skills (thought, written and verbal communication skills). Must be able to effectively present concepts, ideas, instructions and details to all levels within the organization. Must listen effectively in order to effectively communicate.

Computer Skills: Must have experience with IT Systems and tools (MS Office applications – including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint) and Microsoft Dynamics/365 ERP is a plus. Experience in trade compliance software and systems including Foreign Trade Zone Management, Global Classification (HT, HTS), and Denied Party Screening, and DutyCalc applications. Must be able to develop and present quality material to the senior executive management team.

OUR VALUES:

At 5.11 we embrace a high energy culture built upon our values of Service, Unity, Impact and Tenacity.

Service – At 5.11, we wear our passion for service on our sleeves: it is an honor to serve those who serve and people of all walks of life. With humility and great respect for our consumers and our roots, we take pride in our brand and engage with our communities. By championing the needs of our consumer we fulfill the mission of a lifetime.

Unity – We build together—as one, global 5.11 family. Our individual abilities and diverse perspectives strengthen outcomes. We collaborate, taking a holistic view and listening actively. By communicating with intention, care and clarity, we empower each other to reach new heights.

Impact – We have big ambitions and they start and end with our consumer. With them in mind, we innovate for impact—we think big, think creatively and challenge norms. We foster curiosity and iterate, relentlessly pursuing solutions. For ultimate impact, we drive to disrupt for good.

Tenacity – We are tenacious in our pursuits and accountable to each other. This builds trust and the confidence to rise to any challenge. We have the courage to take risks and, no matter the outcome, we flex and adapt, always having each other’s backs. We persist—determined to Always Be Ready.

Pay Range: $110,000 - $130,000 annually plus bonus based on experience

5.11 Tactical offers a best-in-class benefits program including: medical, dental and vision insurance; a 401(k) program with employer match; employer-paid basic life and AD&D insurance. Additionally, employees can choose from several voluntary benefits including: Hospital Indemnity/Accident insurance; Flexible Spending Account/Health Saving Account; Employee Assistance Program; Paid Time Off/Paid Holidays/Sick Time; Casual Dress Code; and Employee Discounts.

*If you are a regular full-time employee working at least 30 hours per week, you and your eligible dependents may participate in 5.11’s benefits program.*