Manager Customs
Purpose & Overall Relevance for the Organization
We are seeking an expert to join the Global Customs function with a primary focus on the specialized area of country of origin. The primary objective of this role is to drive trade preference implementation and ensure end‑to‑end compliance across markets in Asia. The role will also work closely with origins and Sourcing teams to manage the C‑TPAT security program and support other trade‑preference initiatives. Prior experience in managing trade preferences is definitely advantageous, and a working knowledge of customs classification, valuation, and the broader end‑to‑end supply chain will also contribute to success. A detailed overview of responsibilities is provided below.
Key Responsibilities:
Trade Preference
- Implement and manage end‑to‑end trade preference programs in Asian markets, including monitoring and studying trade agreements, training factories on rules of origin and documentation requirements, and managing issue escalations related to preference execution.
- Coordinate the collection of preference result reports from Asian markets and conduct data analysis and issue follow‑ups.
- Support post‑clearance audits related to trade preference in Asian markets.
- Handle enquiries and projects related to trade preference.
C‑TPAT
- Manage the C‑TPAT Program for all suppliers under adidas Sourcing and update the C‑TPAT Policy as needed.
- Assist in selecting and managing an external compliance company supporting adidas in maintaining C‑TPAT program implementation.
- Liaise with LOs/factories and the nominated compliance company to resolve issues arising from audits or C‑TPAT program requirements.
- Manage C‑TPAT official revalidations and carry out follow‑up actions.
Key Relationships:
- Product Development & Sourcing
- LOs
- T1 factories
- Market Customs operation teams
- External auditing & consulting company
- Customs authorities
- Product Area team
Knowledge Skills and Abilities:
- Customs technical knowledge, particularly of import processes and origin verification, with additional beneficial knowledge in customs valuation and classification
- Ability to read, analyse, interpret and explain government regulations
- Good Supply Chain knowledge
- Strong communication skills, including writing and presentation skills
- Demonstrated business reasoning, analytical and critical thinking
- Good planning and organizational skills, and ability to work and deliver in dynamic environments while adhering to specified deadlines
- High degree of self-management, enthusiasm and result-driven
- Ability to work with Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, Powerpoint)
- Strong research, writing, communication and analytical skills
Requisite Education and Experience / Minimum Qualifications:
- 5+ years’ experience in customs operation and/or trade compliance preferably in the apparel / footwear industries
- A degree from an accredited college or university with emphasis on the areas of trade compliance, international trade, logistics, supply chain, or equivalent experience in customs business
- Fluency in English, Written and Spoken
At adidas, we strongly believe that embedding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) into our culture and talent processes gives our employees a sense of belonging and our brand a real competitive advantage.
– Culture Starts With People, It Starts With You –
By recruiting talent and developing our people to reflect the rich diversity of our consumers and communities, we foster a culture of inclusion that engages our employees and authentically connects our brand with our consumers.