Foreign Trade Compliance Manager

Express•Columbus, OH

About The Position

About PHOENIX P HOENIX Retail, LLC is a retail platform operating the Express and Bonobos brands worldwide. Express is a multichannel apparel brand dedicated to a design philosophy rooted in modern, confident and effortless style whether dressing for work, everyday or special occasions. Bonobos is a menswear brand known for being pioneers of exceptional fit and a personalized, innovative retail model. Customers can experience our brands in over 400 Express retail and Express Factory Outlet stores, 50 Bonobos Guideshops, and online at www.express.com and www.bonobos.com . About Express Express is a multichannel apparel brand dedicated to creating confidence and inspiring self-expression. Since its launch in 1980, the brand has embraced a design philosophy rooted in modern, confident and effortless style. Whether dressing for work, everyday or special occasions, Express ensures you look and feel your best, wherever life takes you. The Company operates over 400 retail and outlet stores in the United States and Puerto Rico, the express.com online store and the Express mobile app. Responsibilities The Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) Compliance Manager is the subject matter expert responsible for all aspects of operating a zone and initiatives to streamline the import process to maintain compliance with import regulations within the ICRS system. This role will be responsible for establishing control-related standards, strict adherence to CBP's ICRS requirements, and CTPAT Security requirements, including maintaining accurate physical/digital inventory records, and managing the flow of merchandise into and out of the zone to optimize duty deferral and operational efficiency. In addition, the manager will also be responsible for the FTZ systems (ICRS), including maintenance, troubleshooting, and enhancements. The FTZ Compliance Manager will need to have deep institutional knowledge and understanding of the Foreign-Trade Zones Board regulations, and the Customs regulations, and how these apply to and impact the FTZ operations.

Requirements

Education: Bachelor’s degree in international trade, supply chain, or the equivalent combination of education plus experience.
Experience: 5+ years of experience in Foreign Trade Zone operations and trade compliance, experience with FTZ warehouse transitions beneficial.
3+ years in data analytics or inventory management.
Experience with ERP systems like SAP or Oracle to manage inventory movement.
Experience using Inventory Control and Recordkeeping Systems (ICRS).
Background in vendor management preferred
Knowledge: Strong understanding of FTZ regulations (19 CFR 146).
Knowledge of import entry process with CBP and other government agencies.
Knowledge of apparel importing preferred.
Proficiency in data analytics is preferred.
CRITICAL SKILLS & ATTRIBUTES Technical: Inventory Control Expertise Advanced problem-solving and root cause analysis Data analysis and reporting skills Variance detection and reconciliation Process mapping and optimization Leadership Abilities: Ability to work independently and build from ground up Change management capabilities Vendor oversight and negotiation skills Cross-functional influence without direct authority Strategic thinking with tactical execution Communication: Ability to translate data into actionable insights Clear and concise documentation and reporting Vendor relationship management Personal Attributes: Meticulous and Detail-Oriented Self-directed and proactive Adaptable and effective in a transitional environment Collaborative approach Strong organizational skills Continuous improvement mindset

Nice To Haves

Certified Customs Specialist and/or a Customs Broker's License is beneficial.

Responsibilities

FTZ Operational End-to-end management of zone processes, including zone transfers.
Responsible for updating and maintaining FTZ Procedures Manual, Process Flows, and SOPs.
Manage the execution and filing of all required CBP forms for merchandise admissions (CBPF 214) and removals for consumption (CBPF 3461/7501).
Maintain FTZ files and retain FTZ records as required by law and regulations.
Responsible for monitoring the savings associated with the FTZ operations.
Create periodic FTZ reports (Quarterly HMF, Yearly Blanket CBP form 216, Annual Reconciliation, Certification Letter, FTZ Board Report, etc.).
Coordinate with Finance regarding payment of quarterly HMF payments, and FTZ Operator bond premium.
FTZ Data Analytics & Reconciliation Oversee real-time inventory tracking within the WMS/ICRS and conduct regular, documented cycle counts and physical inventory reconciliations.
Implement daily automated inventory reconciliation processes.
Investigate and resolve inventory imbalances.
Perform root cause analysis on systemic issues.
Analyze data to create FTZ metrics and KPIs to identify areas of risk and opportunities.
Compliance & Regulatory Oversight Oversee admission and entry documentation accuracy.
Process reconciliation, and post admission corrections within the defined time limits.
Support CBP audits and examinations.
Maintain FTZ recordkeeping requirements.
Support the international trade team with adherence to compliance policies and procedures, in achieving operational objectives, and in fostering a culture of compliance.
Ensure the FTZ facility adheres to all CTPAT physical security standards and manage security incident response planning.
Monitor Customs/Regulatory environment changes and adjusting procedures as required.
Vendor & Stakeholder Management Oversee outsourced FTZ operational partners.
Monitor vendor performance and SLA compliance.
Interface with warehouse operations teams.
Manage escalations and issue resolution.
Partner with internal stakeholders to identify process improvements and implement solutions.
Maintain relationship with FTZ Board, and Grantee.
Maintain a positive working relation with US Customs and Border Protection.
Serve as liaison with other functional areas within the organization and external partners to ensure the information systems are maintained, updated and accurate for FTZ reporting and compliance purposes.
Work with cross functional teams on strategic initiatives to reduce spend and optimize FTZ capabilities.
Assist in internal and external training.
Process Improvement & Risk Management Lead internal FTZ audit activities to identify and correct compliance issues and minimize risk.
Leverage technology and data to streamline processes and improve efficiency.
Identify process gaps causing inventory imbalances.
Create risk mitigation strategies.
Implement best practices for FTZ operations.
Support continuous improvement initiatives.