Global Trade Compliance Specialist

Job Title

Job Description

About Vanderlande

Vanderlande is a global leader in automation solutions for airports, warehousing, and parcel sectors. We are committed to delivering innovative, reliable, and sustainable logistics systems that meet the highest standards of quality, safety, and compliance.

Position Overview

The Global Trade Compliance Specialist ensures that Vanderlande’s North American operations comply with all applicable import/export laws, regulations, and internal policies. This role focuses on oversight, governance, and continuous improvement of trade compliance processes, with a particular emphasis on managing inbound international shipments and supporting cross-functional teams responsible for product classification.

Key Responsibilities

• Establishing, maintaining, and continuously improving Vanderlande’s global trade compliance framework. This includes ensuring that all international trade activities are conducted in accordance with applicable laws and internal policies, while enabling efficient and scalable business operations.
• Develop and maintain global trade compliance policies, procedures, and standards aligned with U.S., EU, and other relevant international trade regulations.
• Translate complex regulatory requirements into practical internal controls and workflows.
• Ensure policies are integrated into business processes across Engineering, Sourcing, Logistics, and Project Management.
• Oversee the governance of product classification (HS codes, ECCNs, country of origin), ensuring consistency and accuracy across the organization.
• Establish review and validation protocols for classifications assigned by Engineering, Sourcing, and Cost Engineering teams.
• Maintain a centralized classification database and ensure it is regularly audited and updated.
• Conduct trade compliance risk assessments to support the development and implementation of internal controls to mitigate identified risks, including screening, licensing, and documentation protocols.
• Coordinate with external auditors and regulatory authorities during audits or investigations.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for customs authorities, export control agencies, and other regulatory bodies.
• Monitor and interpret changes in trade laws, sanctions, and embargoes that may affect Vanderlande’s operations and advise leadership on regulatory developments with recommended strategic responses.
• Develop and deliver targeted training programs for employees involved in international trade activities to promote a culture of compliance through awareness campaigns, onboarding programs, and ongoing education.
• Collaborate with IT and Digital teams to ensure trade compliance requirements are embedded in ERP and TMS systems.
  - Support the implementation and optimization of trade compliance tools
  - Ensure data integrity and traceability of trade-related records for audit and reporting purposes.
• Manage all inbound international shipments, including:
  • Intracompany transfers from global Vanderlande entities.
  • Third-party supplier shipments from international vendors.
  • Coordinate with customs brokers and freight forwarders to ensure timely and compliant clearance of goods.
  • Monitor and resolve customs holds, documentation discrepancies, and import-related issues.
• Manage export/import licenses and ensure timely applications and renewals.
• Maintain accurate and complete records of trade transactions in accordance with legal requirements.
• Act as the primary liaison between Legal, Engineering, Sourcing, Logistics, and external partners on trade compliance matters.
• Monitor compliance KPIs and prepare reports for senior management and regulatory bodies.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in International Business, Law, Supply Chain, or related field.
  Certification in trade compliance (e.g., CUSECO, CCS, or similar) is a plus.
• 5+ years in trade compliance, preferably in a multinational or technology-driven environment.
• Experience managing international inbound logistics and working with customs brokers.
• Familiarity trade compliance systems is preferred.
• Strong knowledge of global trade regulations and classification principles.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
  Ability to influence and collaborate across technical and non-technical teams