Director, Logistics and Trade Compliance

Role Summary

The Director of Logistics and Trade Compliance will oversee all aspects of global logistics operations and international trade compliance across the organization’s global supply chain. This leadership role involves developing and implementing logistics strategies that support the product supply chain while ensuring adherence to global trade regulations, supervising logistics team members, managing vendor relationships, and collaborating cross-functionally to streamline processes and reduce costs.

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

Qualifications

• 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 with EU trade compliance preferred; solid candidates with demonstrable ability to quickly master new regulatory frameworks
• 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
• 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
• 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%)

Education

• Not specified beyond degree requirements in qualifications