EXPRESS · 2 weeks ago
Foreign Trade Compliance Manager
Columbus, Ohio Metropolitan Area
Full-time
Onsite
Senior Level
5+ years expPHOENIX Retail, LLC is a retail platform operating the Express and Bonobos brands worldwide. The Foreign Trade Compliance Manager is responsible for all aspects of operating a Foreign Trade Zone and ensuring compliance with import regulations, including managing inventory and vendor relationships, overseeing data analytics, and supporting regulatory oversight.
ApparelE-CommerceFashionRetail
No H1B
Responsibilities
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
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in international trade, supply chain, or the equivalent combination of education plus 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)
Strong understanding of FTZ regulations (19 CFR 146)
Knowledge of import entry process with CBP and other government agencies
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
Preferred
Background in vendor management preferred
Knowledge of apparel importing preferred
Proficiency in data analytics is preferred
Certified Customs Specialist and/or a Customs Broker's License is beneficial
Company
EXPRESS
Express is a specialty apparel and accessory retailer offering both women and men's merchandise.
5001-10000 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Public CompanyTotal Funding
$164.84MKey Investors
WHP GlobalSycamore Ventures
2022-12-08Post Ipo Equity· $24.84M
2021-01-14Post Ipo Debt· $140M
2010-05-13IPO
Leadership Team
Stewart Glendinning
Chief Executive Officer
Joanie Rogan
EA to EVP/CMO ~ SVP Omni-channel Experience & Operations ~ SVP Creative ~ VP Brand Marketing
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