Customs Brokerage Manager

Position Summary

We are seeking an experienced Customs Brokerage Manager to lead and oversee all aspects of our customs brokerage operations. This role serves as the primary point of contact for U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), clients, and cross-functional internal teams. The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in CBP regulations, HTS classification, import/export compliance, and Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) operations — along with a proven track record in a management or supervisory capacity.

Key Responsibilities

Operations & Compliance

• Oversee day-to-day customs brokerage operations, ensuring accurate and timely entry filing in accordance with CBP regulations
• Manage HTS classification, valuation, and admissibility determinations for all import and export shipments
• Serve as the primary liaison with CBP, regulatory agencies, clients, and internal stakeholders
• Ensure compliance with all applicable import/export laws, trade agreements, and regulatory requirements
• Monitor regulatory updates and implement operational changes to maintain continuous compliance

Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ)

• Manage all FTZ compliance activities, including zone admissions, transfers, and record-keeping
• Prepare and submit FTZ reporting to CBP and Commerce as required
• Conduct internal audits and maintain FTZ activation documentation and procedures

Leadership & Team Management

• Supervise and develop the customs brokerage team, including hiring, training, and performance management
• Set team KPIs and accountability structures to ensure service level standards are met
• Foster a culture of accuracy, urgency, and regulatory excellence across the team

Client & Stakeholder Relations

• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, providing guidance on customs requirements and trade compliance strategies
• Respond to CBP inquiries, audits, and requests for information in a timely and accurate manner
• Partner with the sales and operations teams to support onboarding of new clients and trade lanes

Required Qualifications

• Licensed U.S. Customs Broker (active license required)
• Minimum 5 years of experience in customs brokerage operations
• Minimum 2 years in a supervisory or management role within a brokerage, freight forwarding, or logistics environment
• Strong working knowledge of CBP regulations, HTS classification, ACE filing, and import/export compliance
• Direct experience with Foreign Trade Zone compliance, reporting, and zone management
• Proficiency in customs software platforms (e.g., Customs City, Descartes, or similar)
• Exceptional attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to manage competing priorities in a high-volume environment

Preferred Qualifications

• Certified Customs Specialist (CCS) or Certified Export Specialist (CES) designation
• Experience with C-TPAT, ISA, or other trade partnership programs
• Bilingual in English and Spanish a plus
• Experience in a third-party logistics (3PL) or asset-based carrier environment