Ensure that customs compliance policies are developed, maintained, and implemented across the Aramex Network. The position is responsible to streamline customs clearance processes by maintaining close working relationship with customs operations leaders and brokers (internal and external)/stakeholders, ensuring full compliance with customs regulations.
• Ensure that all customs clearance operations comply with relevant country-specific laws, regulations and global industry standards.
• Develop, maintain and implement customs compliance policies and procedures related to day-to-day clearance operations to streamline processes across Aramex network.
• Execute job responsibilities systematically and on a country-by-country basis according to priority and agreed annual plans. The focus will remain on customs clearance operations in coordination with other cross-functional areas such as Finance, Tax, Risk and Compliance, Legal, and Internal Audit.
• Develop and maintain close working relationships with Operations leaders, both internal and external brokers/stakeholders in all countries, to understand customs procedures and regulations and to ensure full compliance.
• Identify, assess, and mitigate compliance risks within the company's Express Operations.
• Conduct inspections and regular internal audits of customs documentation to ensure compliance with regulatory policies, external and internal standards, and submission of customs import declarations that include accurate information and proper classification of goods according to the Harmonized System (HS), invoices, certificates, and approvals. Audits to be carried out based on random sampling of shipment data and supporting documents, in coordination with other relevant and cross-functional departments, where needed.
• Conduct regular audits on 3rd party brokers/agents to ensure operational compliance with existing contractual clauses and obligations, as signed off by the Global Risk and Compliance Team, to mitigate any future liabilities for Aramex.
• Prepare and present compliance and non-compliance reports and audit results periodically, identifying trends and addressing issues to ensure continuous improvement in customs processes.
• Investigate, manage and follow up on corrective actions related to operational compliance incidents and breaches based on audit findings and reports.
• Ensure accurate record-keeping and reporting for all customs audits.
• Promote best practices and provide training, guidance and education to employees on customs compliance matters and regulations.
• Coordinate and share identified high-risk areas with the Global Risk and Compliance Team to agree on necessary courses of actions to mitigate these risks.
• Support and assist in automating customs processes and related initiatives, wherever applicable.
• Bachelor’s degree, preferably in Logistics, Supply Chain Management or in related fields.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in customs operations and compliance management, preferably within the Express Industry.
• Comprehensive understanding of import laws, customs regulations and procedures.
• Advanced degrees or certifications in customs compliance and import regulations can be advantageous.
• Proven track record of managing import customs clearance processes, ensuring compliance with customs regulations.
• Strong analytical skills and knowledge in MS Office.
• Excellent communication and leadership abilities.
• Must be willing and able to travel as needed.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
• Ability to coordinate with various stakeholders and the management team.