For an internationally active logistics and supply chain company, we are seeking an experienced leadership personality to take on strategic and operational responsibility for international customs and border clearance processes at the Port Huron, MI site (24/7/365 operation).
The remit covers multiple management levels, full process and P&L responsibility, as well as the further development of the department within clearly defined compliance, quality, and performance targets.
Key Responsibilities
- Plan, structure, and manage all day-to-day activities to ensure an efficient workflow.
- Monitor entry processing and records functions and proactively manage disruptions and escalations.
- Support Customer Service in incidents and operational exception situations.
- Build and maintain robust relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
- Continuously analyze team performance and implement targeted improvement measures.
- Identify training needs and drive the systematic development of team members.
- Act as the primary subject matter expert for customers and internal teams on all operational customs topics.
- Ensure professional customer onboarding before transition into regular operations.
- Further develop and standardize processes, including collaboration with central, decentralized, and international support teams.
- Take responsibility for receivables management within the assigned customer portfolio.
- Conduct quarterly business reviews with strategically important customers.
- Monitor regulatory changes (CBP) and implement necessary internal adjustments in training, processes, communication, and systems.
- Oversee the correct processing of international air/ocean entries and northern border truck shipments.
- Ensure full compliance and maintain an error rate below 1%.
- Plan and manage resources, lead the team, and achieve defined KPIs.
- Take full responsibility for budget, costs, and profitability of the unit.
- Work closely with senior stakeholders on complex, cross-functional issues.
- Contribute to the long-term site and product strategy.
- Foster an engaged, collaborative, and performance-driven team culture.
Requirements
- University degree in a relevant field and at least 10 years of professional experience in customs, logistics, or supply chain.
- Active U.S. Customs Broker License (mandatory).
- Proven track record in leading and developing customs departments with a strong focus on compliance, efficiency, and customer orientation.
- Strong analytical skills and a solution-oriented mindset.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Proficient user of MS Office and relevant business applications.
- Several years of leadership experience, including coaching and talent development.
- Solid financial acumen, particularly in budget and cost management.
Interested?
If you are interested in this demanding leadership role and would like to actively shape the further development of international customs and border clearance processes, Thomas Wehle looks forward to your confidential inquiry.
As an experienced executive search partner, he will gladly guide you through an initial personal conversation and provide further background information on the position Director Northern Border & International Customs Operations.
Please feel free to reach out to our Executive Search expert Thomas Wehle at tw@wcl.de.