Foreign Trade Compliance Manager

PHOENIX Retail, LLC is a retail platform operating the Express and Bonobos brands worldwide. Express is a multichannel apparel brand dedicated to a design philosophy rooted in modern, confident and effortless style whether dressing for work, everyday or special occasions. Bonobos is a menswear brand known for being pioneers of exceptional fit and a personalized, innovative retail model. Customers can experience our brands in over 400 Express retail and Express Factory Outlet stores, 50 Bonobos Guideshops, and online at www.express.com and www.bonobos.com.

About Express

• End-to-end management of zone processes, including zone transfers.
• Responsible for updating and maintaining FTZ Procedures Manual, Process Flows, and SOPs.
• Manage the execution and filing of all required CBP forms for merchandise admissions (CBPF 214) and removals for consumption (CBPF 3461/7501).
• Maintain FTZ files and retain FTZ records as required by law and regulations.
• Responsible for monitoring the savings associated with the FTZ operations.
• Create periodic FTZ reports (Quarterly HMF, Yearly Blanket CBP form 216, Annual Reconciliation, Certification Letter, FTZ Board Report, etc.).
• Coordinate with Finance regarding payment of quarterly HMF payments, and FTZ Operator bond premium.

• Oversee real-time inventory tracking within the WMS/ICRS and conduct regular, documented cycle counts and physical inventory reconciliations.
• Implement daily automated inventory reconciliation processes.
• Investigate and resolve inventory imbalances.
• Perform root cause analysis on systemic issues.
• Analyze data to create FTZ metrics and KPIs to identify areas of risk and opportunities.

• Oversee admission and entry documentation accuracy.
• Process reconciliation, and post admission corrections within the defined time limits.
• Support CBP audits and examinations.
• Maintain FTZ recordkeeping requirements.
• Support the international trade team with adherence to compliance policies and procedures, in achieving operational objectives, and in fostering a culture of compliance.
• Ensure the FTZ facility adheres to all CTPAT physical security standards and manage security incident response planning.
• Monitor Customs/Regulatory environment changes and adjusting procedures as required.

• Oversee outsourced FTZ operational partners.
• Monitor vendor performance and SLA compliance.
• Interface with warehouse operations teams.
• Manage escalations and issue resolution.
• Partner with internal stakeholders to identify process improvements and implement solutions.
• Maintain relationship with FTZ Board, and Grantee.
• Maintain a positive working relation with US Customs and Border Protection.
• Serve as liaison with other functional areas within the organization and external partners to ensure the information systems are maintained, updated and accurate for FTZ reporting and compliance purposes.
• Work with cross functional teams on strategic initiatives to reduce spend and optimize FTZ capabilities.
• Assist in internal and external training.

• Lead internal FTZ audit activities to identify and correct compliance issues and minimize risk.
• Leverage technology and data to streamline processes and improve efficiency.
• Identify process gaps causing inventory imbalances.
• Create risk mitigation strategies.
• Implement best practices for FTZ operations.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives.

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in international trade, supply chain, or the equivalent combination of education plus experience.

Experience:

• 5+ years of experience in Foreign Trade Zone operations and trade compliance, experience with FTZ warehouse transitions beneficial. 3+ years in data analytics or inventory management.
• Experience with ERP systems like SAP or Oracle to manage inventory movement.
• Experience using Inventory Control and Recordkeeping Systems (ICRS).
• Background in vendor management preferred

Knowledge:

• Strong understanding of FTZ regulations (19 CFR 146).
• Knowledge of import entry process with CBP and other government agencies.
• Knowledge of apparel importing preferred.
• Proficiency in data analytics is preferred.
• Certified Customs Specialist and/or a Customs Broker's License is beneficial.

CRITICAL SKILLS & ATTRIBUTES

Technical:

• Inventory Control Expertise
• Advanced problem-solving and root cause analysis
• Data analysis and reporting skills
• Variance detection and reconciliation
• Process mapping and optimization

• Ability to work independently and build from ground up
• Change management capabilities
• Vendor oversight and negotiation skills
• Cross-functional influence without direct authority
• Strategic thinking with tactical execution

• Ability to translate data into actionable insights
• Clear and concise documentation and reporting
• Vendor relationship management

• Meticulous and Detail-Oriented
• Self-directed and proactive
• Adaptable and effective in a transitional environment
• Collaborative approach
• Strong organizational skills
• Continuous improvement mindset