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!