An industry leader in advanced materials is seeking an experienced Global Trade Regional Manager – APAC to oversee and strengthen trade compliance operations across the Asia-Pacific region. This position serves as a strategic bridge between regional sites and the Global Trade Center of Excellence, ensuring that all import/export activities comply with local laws and global standards. The ideal candidate will bring deep regional expertise, proven leadership experience, and a passion for driving operational excellence in a global trade environment.

About the Role

The Global Trade Regional Manager – APAC will lead all facets of trade compliance for the region, from developing policy frameworks to managing operational risk. This individual will play a pivotal role in shaping and enforcing trade strategies that align with business objectives, regional regulations, and global compliance protocols. This role also involves close collaboration with cross-functional teams, including supply chain, legal, and site operations, and will manage a regional trade compliance team.

Responsibilities

Trade Compliance Leadership & Oversight

• Lead compliance activities across all APAC facilities, ensuring full adherence to international and local import/export regulations.
• Develop and implement regional policies and procedures aligned with corporate trade standards.
• Act as the primary liaison between APAC operations and the Global Trade COE.

Risk Management & Operational Execution

• Drive risk mitigation efforts, including the preparation of Prior Disclosures and Post Entry Corrections.
• Monitor export authorizations, track license expirations, and manage compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Provide trade classification, valuation, and licensing guidance to internal teams.
• Improve trade data management practices through continuous feedback and analysis.

Strategic Engagement & Planning

• Participate in global strategic planning initiatives to support international trade compliance and efficiency.
• Collaborate with operational teams to ensure seamless integration of regulatory changes.
• Identify and escalate regional trade risks and performance concerns to global leadership.

People Management & Training

• Manage and mentor a regional team of trade compliance professionals.
• Conduct regular performance reviews and coaching sessions.
• Deliver targeted training to ensure ongoing compliance awareness and capability building.

Contractual & Vendor Oversight

• Review and advise on service contracts with customs brokers and trade consultants.
• Recommend improvements to enhance compliance, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.

Requirements

Education

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, International Trade, Supply Chain Management, Accounting, Economics, or a related field.

Experience

• At least 7 years of international trade compliance experience, including import/export and export controls.
• Minimum of 3 years in a leadership or supervisory role, preferably within a multinational or APAC-focused organization.

Technical and Professional Competencies

• Strong knowledge of APAC-specific customs and trade regulations (e.g., MOFCOM, DGFT, ASEAN FTAs).
• Proven ability to communicate effectively across different cultures and departments.
• Proficient in project management and handling multiple priorities.
• Skilled in Microsoft Office Suite; familiarity with Global Trade Management (GTM) software is a plus.
• Trade compliance certification preferred (e.g., CUSECO, CCS, China Customs Broker License).

Why Apply

• Lead regional trade compliance for a respected, innovation-driven global company.
• Engage in high-impact work that shapes compliance strategy and reduces operational risk.
• Be part of a collaborative global team with strong leadership support and visibility.
• Develop and mentor a regional team while contributing to global compliance initiatives.
• Enjoy a dynamic, multicultural work environment with opportunities for growth.