European Customs Director - Logistics

Job Title: European Customs Director - Logistics Sector: 3PL Contract Logistics Location: UK / Hybrid – Travel remit includes Germany, Spain, Netherlands, Belgium and Poland. Salary: £120,000 to £130,000 + Car, Bonus & Package. The Company: Loom Talent are delighted to have been retained by a well-known, global 3PL contract logistics business - with a strong reputation for innovation, efficiency, and delivering top-tier solutions to a multi-user, worldwide customer base across; Automative, White Goods, FMCG, General Merchandise, E-Commerce & Retail. With a focus on cutting-edge supply chain management, they are seeking a highly skilled European Customs Director to drive their cross-border customs operations and compliance strategy across multiple European territories. The Role: As the European Customs Director, you will oversee all customs-related operations across several key European markets, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and optimising processes to support seamless cross-border logistics. Reporting to the senior executive team, you will lead a team of c. 50 employees through direct reports and play a key role in shaping the strategy for customs and trade compliance. This role works to a hybrid model, requiring travel across the following locations; UK, Germany, Spain, Netherlands, Belgium and Poland. Key Responsibilities: Leadership & People Management: Lead, mentor, and develop a diverse team of country heads and customs professionals, fostering a culture of high performance, collaboration, and continuous development. Compliance & Regulation: Ensure all customs operations comply with international, European, and local regulations, including customs declarations, duty optimisation, and Goods Taxation. Manage risk and ensure adherence to relevant trade laws. AEO Accreditations: Drive the accreditation, renewal, and management of AEO (Authorised Economic Operator) status in relevant countries, maintaining strong relationships with customs authorities to facilitate trade and streamline processes. Customs Declarations & Documentation : Oversee the accurate and timely submission of customs declarations, working closely with internal and external stakeholders to ensure smooth and compliant border crossings. Strategy Development & Innovation: Design and implement a forward-thinking strategy for customs operations across Europe, utilising innovative technologies and methodologies to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and ensure operational excellence. Cross-Border Operations: Collaborate with global and regional logistics teams to manage the complexity of cross-border trade, ensuring the efficient movement of goods while mitigating risks associated with customs and taxation. Process Improvement & Optimisation: Drive continuous improvement initiatives across all customs processes, identifying areas for optimisation and implementing solutions that enhance service delivery. Customs Software & Tools: Ensure the effective use of customs management systems and tools to automate processes, improve accuracy, and increase visibility of customs operations. Market Awareness & Trends: Stay abreast of changes in customs regulations, trade policies, and market trends, adapting strategies to mitigate risks and capitalise on opportunities. Stakeholder Engagement: Build and maintain strong relationships with customs authorities, clients, and internal teams to ensure smooth customs clearance and alignment with the company's broader logistics strategy. The Candidate: Degree educated, with a preference in Business Management, Economics, Supply Chain, Logistics, Engineering or Tax Law – Advantageous. Proven experience in a senior cross border customs leadership role, ideally within a 3PL, logistics or manufacturing environment – Essential. 10+ Years in-depth knowledge of customs regulations, compliance, and trade laws across multiple European countries – Essential. Strong understanding of AEO accreditation and experience in managing these relationships with customs authorities – Essential. Excellent leadership and people management skills, with the ability to lead large teams across multiple locations – Essential. Experience in process development, innovation, and driving continuous improvement within customs operations - Essential. Ability to develop and implement a strategic vision for customs compliance and operations - Essential. Exceptional communication and stakeholder management skills – Essential. Proficiency in customs management systems and associated software tools - Essential. The Package: Salary - £120,000 to £130,000 Company Car / Car Allowance Company Bonus Scheme Company Holiday Package Private Medical Insurance Death In Service Cover An opportunity to join a globally renowned logistics leader at a senior level. Leadership of a high-performing European team with responsibility for shaping the future of customs operations. If you’re ready to take your career to the next level and make a significant impact on European customs operations, this could be the perfect role for you!