Freight & Trade Compliance Specialist
3 days ago
Harwell
Hybrid position - 3 days in Oxfordshire office The Advocate Group are proud to be partnering with Ariat, a global leader in performance footwear, apparel and accessories, in the search for a Freight & Trade Compliance Specialist. This is an exciting opportunity to join a market-leading consumer brand in a newly created role that will play a critical part in shaping Ariat's European transportation and trade compliance operations. The successful candidate will be responsible for establishing new processes as the business transitions from a freight forwarder-led model to a directly managed freight operation, while ensuring efficient, cost-effective and compliant import activities across the UK and Europe. The Opportunity Reporting into the European 3PL & Operations Manager and working closely with US-based transportation and trade compliance teams, you'll take ownership of inbound freight operations and trade compliance activities across multiple transport modes. This is a strategic yet hands-on position with significant scope to influence processes, drive efficiencies and strengthen operational performance. Key Responsibilities • Manage inbound transportation operations across ocean, air, trucking and cross-border freight movements throughout the UK and Europe., • Develop transportation strategies that improve service levels, optimise routing and reduce costs., • Monitor carrier performance, forecasting accuracy, booking timeliness and operational KPIs., • Lead trade compliance execution, ensuring adherence to UK and EU customs regulations and import requirements., • Provide expertise on tariff classification, customs valuation, rules of origin and duty optimisation programmes., • Partner with brokers, freight providers, suppliers and regulatory authorities to resolve transportation and customs issues., • Support audits, regulatory enquiries and evolving sustainability and traceability initiatives. About You We're looking for an experienced transportation, logistics or trade compliance professional who thrives in a fast-paced international environment. You'll ideally have: • 3-5+ years' experience in transportation, logistics, customs or trade compliance., • Strong knowledge of international transportation operations, carrier management and UK/EU import processes., • Experience with UK Customs Declaration Service (CDS), EU customs platforms and the EU-UK Trade & Cooperation Agreement (TCA)., • Expertise in tariff classification, customs valuation, rules of origin and duty optimisation., • Strong analytical skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and stakeholders., • Experience within retail, footwear, apparel or consumer goods supply chains would be highly advantageous., • Ability to occasionally communicate outside of UK working hours with US-based colleagues Why Ariat? Ariat is a globally recognised brand built on innovation, integrity, quality, respect and teamwork. You'll join a collaborative environment where you can make a tangible impact while developing your career within a growing international business. Benefits Include: • Company Bonus Scheme, • Private Medical Insurance, • Life Assurance, • Critical Illness Cover, • Employee Assistance Programme, • Employee Purchase Scheme, • Birthday Day Off, • Holiday Purchase Scheme, • Cycle to Work Scheme, • Bring Your Dog to Work Policy, • Flexible Working Location Policy, • Free Onsite Parking with EV Charging Points, • Employee Volunteering Opportunities, • Referral Programme and more. Interested in learning more? Apply directly or contact The Advocate Group for a confidential discussion.