Senior Manager, Customs Trade Compliance EMEA

VF International seeks a Senior Manager for Customs Trade Compliance EMEA to lead its Stabio-based customs organization, ensuring regulatory adherence and strategic alignment across global supply chain functions.

This position serves as the strategic hub for customs operations within the EMEA region, reporting from the global headquarters in Stabio, Switzerland. The role is designed to treat world-class trade compliance as a key competitive advantage, acting as a central partner to Supply Chain, Logistics, Finance, Legal, Tax, Sourcing, and Commercial departments to drive operational excellence.

Responsibilities

• Direct and mentor a network of Country Customs Leads across various European jurisdictions and the United Kingdom.
• Provide strategic guidance to in-country compliance teams stationed at VF’s regional distribution centers.
• Guarantee strict adherence to all import and export customs regulations throughout the EMEA region.
• Develop and sustain robust governance frameworks, including policies, procedures, and internal controls.
• Track regulatory changes and proactively adjust business operations to mitigate risks and ensure compliance.
• Oversee customs audits, handle inquiries, and manage relationships with customs authorities and government agencies.
• Collaborate with regional and global stakeholders, including Supply Chain, Logistics, Finance, Legal, Tax, Sourcing, Product Development, and Commercial teams.
• Convert strategic customs goals into actionable operational initiatives with measurable business outcomes.
• Lead continuous improvement projects to enhance compliance, efficiency, and service levels.
• Promote standardization and the sharing of best practices across different markets, countries, and distribution centers.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain, International Trade, Business, Law, Accounting, Logistics, or a related field.
• At least 10 years of progressive experience in customs, international trade, or global trade compliance.
• Demonstrated leadership experience in managing geographically dispersed teams and complex regional operations.
• Deep understanding of customs regulations, import/export compliance, tariff classification, valuation, origin, and duty management within European and international contexts.
• Experience interacting with customs authorities, brokers, and government agencies.

Nice to have

• Experience leading customs compliance operations across multiple European countries.
• Working knowledge of UK customs regulations and post-Brexit trade requirements.
• Experience within a multinational consumer goods, apparel, retail, manufacturing, or logistics environment.

What the company offers

• Comprehensive benefits package supporting mental, physical, and financial well-being.
• Access to an on-site gym with health and well-being initiatives.
• A discount card providing 50% off all VF brands.
• Break-out areas offering complimentary hot drinks.

About the company

VF International fosters a supportive, feedback-driven culture rooted in respect and integrity. As part of an iconic lifestyle brand, the company operates in a multi-brand, multi-country environment that values inclusivity. Employees from diverse backgrounds, lifestyles, and nationalities thrive in this collaborative international setting.

• Supportive feedback-based culture guided by respect and integrity.
• Inclusive international environment where people of diverse backgrounds, lifestyles and nationalities love working together.
• Part of an iconic lifestyle brand in a multi brand, multi countries organization.