Vice President, Customs and Foreign Trade

EagleBurgmann•Farmington Hills, MI

51d

About The Position

Design, implement, and continuously enhance the global trade compliance program (customs, export controls, excise duties) for Freudenberg's Vibracoustic business group. Lead and develop a team of experts, fostering both professional and personal growth. Monitor and interpret regulatory changes (customs, export controls, ESG requirements such as CBAM/deforestation) and implement them in close collaboration with functions such as supply chain, logistics, sales, legal, and R&D. Advise the Management Board and the business on complex supply chain topics, contract reviews, and critical decisions related to international trade compliance. Establish KPI reporting to ensure transparency of customs costs and drive cost-saving and optimization initiatives. Implement and manage global processes such as denied party screening and export control procedures to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.

Requirements

Degree in International Business Administration, ideally combined with certification as a tax advisor or customs and excise specialist.
Proven leadership experience in international organizations and in a comparable global role.
Strong expertise in export controls, customs, and international trade regulations.
A collaborative, hands-on leadership style with strong intercultural skills.
Analytical and solution-oriented mindset, professional presence, and strong customer orientation.
Excellent communication skills at executive level, with fluency in both German and English.

Responsibilities

Design, implement, and continuously enhance the global trade compliance program (customs, export controls, excise duties) for Freudenberg's Vibracoustic business group.
Lead and develop a team of experts, fostering both professional and personal growth.
Monitor and interpret regulatory changes (customs, export controls, ESG requirements such as CBAM/deforestation) and implement them in close collaboration with functions such as supply chain, logistics, sales, legal, and R&D.
Advise the Management Board and the business on complex supply chain topics, contract reviews, and critical decisions related to international trade compliance.
Establish KPI reporting to ensure transparency of customs costs and drive cost-saving and optimization initiatives.
Implement and manage global processes such as denied party screening and export control procedures to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.