Global Trade Expert

About the role

Work collaboratively within the Volvo Car Customs Operations team in the Americas region to facilitate compliant import and export activities, while supporting delivery on the global customs strategy. The role involves a shift toward “best in class” customs and export controls practices, requiring the ability to manage multiple trade-related projects, deliver innovative solutions, and serve as the subject-matter expert during organizational change.

Responsibilities

• Support and drive the Customs Operations team to create efficient day-to-day processes for:
  • Import/Export Operations
  • Foreign Trade Zone Operations
  • Electronic filings: ISF/Entry/e214, ePTT, IT, EEI, etc.
  • Special Trade Programs
• Implement duty avoidance and recovery strategies.
• Drive adoption of AI solutions and automation.
• Ensure CTPAT compliance and conduct trade risk evaluations with documented self-assessments.
• Collaborate with the team to set department goals and deliver strategic improvements.
• Establish a global way of working under a control tower concept.
• Review information, data, documentation, and material flows to eliminate waste and reduce costs.
• Demonstrate ownership of assigned projects and their delivery.
• Develop strategic partnerships with service providers to maximize visibility over trade activities.
• Coordinate with other supply chain groups to resolve issues.
• Develop and maintain work instructions for standardized processes within Volvo’s Business Management System (BMS).
• Prepare KPIs to ensure operational effectiveness.
• Coordinate with external customs brokers for compliant and timely filings.
• Develop and maintain databases for tracking import/export activities to enhance reporting.
• Participate in system requirements development for Customs System integration across business units.
• Implement and run a risk-based self-assessment program with management reporting.
• Conduct and document internal audits per the audit plan (e.g., US Imports, Canada Imports, FTZ).
• Secure and manage legal entity set-up (Customs Bonds/Guarantee).
• Monitor changes in trade requirements, assess organizational impact, and drive compliant implementation.

Requirements

• Knowledge of Customs regulations (15 CFR, 19 CFR).
• Proven experience in filing customs entries.
• Computer literacy with Microsoft Office products.
• Certified Export Specialist or Customs Brokerage License preferred.
• Six to ten years of FTZ/Import/Export experience.
• Educational degree in logistics or a related field preferred.
• Service-minded with strong communication and coordination skills.
• Ability to assess complex critical situations quickly.
• Proven ability to perform under pressure.
• Strong knowledge of customs compliance processes.
• Problem-solving skills with a detailed, systematic approach to planning.
• Strong leadership skills.

Skills

• Expert-level understanding of regulatory trade concepts (Tariff Classification, Valuation, Country of Origin, Free Trade Agreements, Special Procedures, and Trade Programs).
• Self-driven with the ability to perform tasks with minimal supervision while collaborating effectively.
• Strong interpersonal skills for daily interfaces with external vendors, international suppliers, and agents.
• Timely and accurate in all Customs-related matters to avoid penalties and shipment delays.
• Ability to stay abreast of regulatory changes and ensure organizational compliance.
• Ability to juggle multiple projects, raise issues proactively, and commit to results.
• Uses logic and intuition to reach appropriate conclusions.
• Adjusts behavior to match situational demands.
• Understands organizational operations and industry context.
• Respects differences and listens to others.
• Ability to interact cross-functionally in a multicultural environment.
• Strong organizational and prioritization skills.
• Positive mindset, proactive attitude, and self-starter mentality.
• Well-organized working methods with structured, concise reporting.

Other Duties

This job description is not comprehensive; duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice. As a Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) “Key Employee,” you will be required to complete a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) background check, including a Volvo Car background investigation, at least every five years. Failure to pass the background check will disqualify you from working as an FTZ key employee.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans starting on day one.
• Tax-advantaged savings accounts and a wellness program with discounts and gifts.
• Voluntary benefits and a robust retirement savings plan with employer contributions.
• Global paid parental leave policy (The Family Bond by Volvo Cars) covering all employees, including adoptive, permanent care foster, and surrogate parents.
• Discounted lease rates on new Volvo vehicles through the Volvo Employee Lease Program (VELP).