Trade Compliance Manager

Job Summary

The Trade Compliance Manager MENA will be responsible for ensuring that all import, export, and customs activities comply with international trade regulations and company policies. This role oversees product classification, customs duty management, and trade compliance processes across multiple markets. The position plays a key role in optimizing duty spend, supporting new product development, and maintaining accurate system data for global trade operations.

Job Responsibilities

As regards duties, the position will:

• Lead the accurate classification of products using Harmonized System (HS) codes across all operating markets.
• Maintain and update ERP master data to ensure product classification remains compliant and current.
• Review and approve HS codes for new and existing SKUs, ensuring adherence to international and local customs regulations.
• Monitor compliance with Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and import/export requirements.
• Conduct internal audits to verify the accuracy and compliance of customs-related data and documentation.
• Oversee and control customs duty spending, ensuring alignment with budgets and compliance standards.
• Identify opportunities for duty savings and optimization through accurate classification and FTA utilization.
• Validate service provider invoices to ensure accurate and timely payment processing.
• Partner with finance and procurement teams to improve cost control and reporting related to customs operations.
• Manage and support new product development projects, ensuring the timely completion of classification and recipe review activities.
• Coordinate with cross-functional teams to ensure trade compliance readiness for product launches and portfolio changes.
• Lead process improvement initiatives within trade compliance and customs management.
• Ensure projects are executed on schedule to support business continuity and product availability.
• Ensure the accuracy and integrity of ERP systems related to trade compliance data and classification.
• Maintain up-to-date records and documentation of all HS code assignments and customs information.
• Drive automation and process efficiency within trade compliance operations.
• Support system maintenance and updates to reflect regulatory or classification changes.
• Develop and enhance functional expertise within internal teams involved in customs and trade operations.
• Provide training and guidance on international trade regulations, HS codes, and compliance procedures.
• Promote a continuous improvement culture through lean and operational excellence methodologies.
• Prepare and deliver compliance and performance reports, including HS code accuracy, customs duty spending, and invoice validation metrics.
• Track and analyze key performance indicators (KPIs) related to trade compliance, cost savings, and on-time delivery.
• Provide insights and recommendations to management for risk mitigation, cost optimization, and process enhancement.

Requirements

• Regional experience across MENA is highly preferred, though not mandatory.
• Exposure to markets outside Egypt will be considered a strong advantage.
• Prior experience within the FMCG or food industry is preferred but not essential; relevant experience from other industries will also be considered.
• A minimum of 3–4 years of relevant experience in a reputable organization is required.
• The position currently has no direct reports, but there is potential to lead a small team (2–3 people) in the future as the function expands.
• Academic background is flexible; however, degrees in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, or Logistics are commonly suited for this role.
• This role requires low travel (approximately 10–20% of the time).
• Fluency in English is mandatory. Arabic and/or French language skills are an advantage.