Director, Trade Compliance and Logistics

Acadia Pharmaceuticals•Princeton, NJ

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Director of Trade Compliance and Logistics will play a critical role in our mid-size biopharmaceutical company, overseeing all aspects of global logistics operations and ensuring international trade compliance across the organization's global supply chain. This leadership position is also in charge of developing and implementing effective logistics strategies that support our product supply chain while maintaining strict adherence to global trade regulations. The successful candidate will lead logistics team members, manage relationships with multiple logistics vendors, and collaborate cross-functionally to streamline processes, reduce costs, and ensure adherence to appropriate compliance requirements.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree required
8+ years of progressive experience in logistics, supply chain, and trade compliance, with at least 4 years in a management role
Demonstrated experience in pharmaceutical or life sciences industry required
Demonstrated ability to proactively research complex trade regulations, seek expert guidance when needed, and translate regulatory requirements into functional operational procedures.
Proven expertise in global trade compliance regulations, including import/export controls, customs procedures, and licensing requirements.
Experience managing international logistics operations and working with multiple logistics service providers
Strong comprehension of GDP (Good Distribution Practice), pharmaceutical storage requirements, and other regulations pertaining to pharmaceutical logistics
Self-motivated with a positive, can-do attitude and bias toward action while maintaining attention to detail and compliance rigor
Proven ability to encourage and mentor small teams, with a track record of developing staff capabilities and fostering a collaborative, solutions-oriented work environment
Solid analytical skills and proficiency in data analysis for performance metrics
Exceptional communication, negotiation, and relationship management abilities
Robust problem-solving skills with the ability to make strategic decisions
Willingness to travel domestically and internationally (approximately 5-10%)
This role involves regular standing, walking, sitting, and the use of hands for handling or operating equipment.
The employee may also need to reach, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, and maintain visual, verbal, and auditory communication in a standard office environment and while working independently from remote locations.
The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 20 pounds.
This position requires the ability to travel independently overnight and/or work after hours as required by travel schedules or business needs.

Nice To Haves

Experience with EU trade compliance preferred; solid candidates with demonstrable ability to quickly master new regulatory frameworks
Knowledge of European VAT systems and compliance requirements for pharmaceutical products preferred
Certified in customs compliance (e.g., Certified Customs Specialist) and/or logistics (e.g., CSCP, CLTD) preferred

Responsibilities

Lead the organization's global trade compliance strategy in alignment with corporate objectives and regional regulatory frameworks
Ensure execution of day-to-day logistics operations, including transportation, warehousing, and distribution of pharmaceutical products
Ensure full compliance with international trade regulations, import/export controls, customs requirements, and VAT regulations in various regions
Direct the classification of pharmaceutical and clinical products under the Harmonized System (HS) and Export Control Classification Number (ECCN) schemes.
Oversee management of the country of origin, customs valuations, and documentation accuracy.
Manage relationships with multiple third-party logistics providers and other vendors
Develop and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for logistics and trade compliance
Collaborate with Finance, Quality Assurance, Regulatory Affairs, and Supply Chain departments to ensure seamless operations
Monitor and analyze key performance indicators (KPIs) for logistics efficiency and compliance
Stay current with changes in global trade regulations and ensure timely adaptation of processes
Conduct regular risk assessments and develop mitigation strategies for logistics and compliance risks
Manage logistics and storage insurance requirements, ensuring adequate coverage while optimizing costs
Develop and implement risk management strategies for product storage, handling, and transportation
Prepare and present regular reports to senior management on logistics performance and compliance status
Manage logistics budget and forecast future resource needs
Lead continuous improvement initiatives for logistics processes and systems