National Import Manager - Customs Brokerage

National Import Manager – Customs Brokerage

Location: Moonachie, NJ
Department: Operations / Compliance

About the Role

We’re seeking an experienced National Import Manager to lead our Customs Brokerage operations and ensure full compliance with U.S. Customs and Partner Government Agency (PGA) regulations. In this key leadership role, you will drive operational excellence, strengthen client relationships, and shape the strategic direction of our brokerage program.

What You’ll Do

Leadership & Strategy

• Lead licensed brokers, entry writers, and compliance staff.
• Build and execute strategies that improve efficiency, compliance, and profitability.
• Partner with senior leadership to align brokerage operations with company goals.

Regulatory Compliance

• Ensure full compliance with CBP, PGA, and all U.S. trade laws.
• Maintain our Customs Brokerage license and supervise compliance programs.
• Monitor regulatory changes and communicate updates to internal teams and clients.
• Oversee audits, responses to government inquiries, and proper recordkeeping.

Operational Excellence

• Oversee timely and accurate import/export entry processing.
• Implement technology and process improvements to streamline workflows.
• Track KPIs and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
• Collaborate with IT and finance to enhance automation, reporting, and billing accuracy.

Client Relations & Growth

• Serve as the company’s subject matter expert on customs procedures and trade compliance.
• Support sales teams with new business opportunities in brokerage and compliance.
• Lead client onboarding and ensure top-tier customer satisfaction.

Team Development

• Recruit, train, and mentor staff to maintain a culture of accountability and excellence.
• Ensure ongoing education and regulatory training for all team members.

What You Bring

Education & Licensing

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, International Business, or related field.
• Active U.S. Customs Broker License (required).
• Preferred certifications: CUSECO, CCS, CES.

Experience

• 10+ years in customs brokerage, import/export compliance, or logistics.
• 5+ years in senior or director-level leadership within brokerage or freight forwarding.
• Strong track record managing high-volume brokerage operations and compliance programs.

Skills

• Expert knowledge of U.S. import/export laws, HTS classification, valuation, and PGA requirements.
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Proficiency with ACE, ABI, and brokerage systems (Descartes, WiseTech, CargoWise).
• Strategic thinker with ability to simplify and operationalize complex regulations.