## Sr. Director, Global Trade Compliance (UK)Applylocations:
UK - Watfordtime type:
Full timeposted on:
Posted Todayjob requisition id:
R90058**Senior Director****, Global Trade Compliance (UK)****Life Unlimited.** At Smith+Nephew, we design and manufacture technology that takes the limits off living.
**Make Compliance a Competitive Advantage**At the intersection of global trade, geopolitics, and business growth, this role gives you the opportunity to **shape and lead the Trade Compliance agenda** at a leading FTSE100 medical device organisation.We are seeking a **senior strategic Trade Compliance leader** to own and drive end‐to‐end global trade compliance strategy enabling compliant, resilient, and efficient cross‐border operations that support business growth, patient access, and innovation.This is not a “check‐the‐box” compliance role. It is a **visible leadership position**, partnering closely with Supply Chain, Manufacturing, Commercial, Legal, Finance, Digital and External Authorities to turn regulatory complexity into operational excellence.**Your Impact**As **Senior Director, Global Trade Compliance**, you will:* **Set and execute global Trade Compliance strategy**, evolving the Global Trade Compliance road map, global standards and horizon scanning within a complex regulatory landscape* Act as a **trusted advisor to senior leadership** on trade risk, regulatory change, and geopolitical impacts* Ensure robust compliance with **import, export, customs, sanctions, and preferential trade programs** across diverse markets* Drive **simplification, standardisation, and digitalisation** of trade compliance processes* Strengthen governance, controls, and risk management while enabling speed‐to‐market and supply continuity* Represent the organisation with **Customs Authorities, Government Agencies, and external partners** across the regions* Manage the Global Trade Compliance team, including developing centres of excellence for customs activities, export controls and global training and education.**What You Will Lead*** **Global Compliance Framework**
+ Implement and continuously improve global trade compliance policies, procedures, and controls
+ Oversee key pillars such as HS classification, country of origin, valuation, denied party screening, and broker governance* **Risk, Controls & Audits**
+ Lead compliance risk assessments, internal reviews, and regulatory audits
+ Proactively identify gaps and execute remediation plans* **Strategic Enablement**
+ Support complex supply chain initiatives, new market entries, product launches, and network transformations
+ Drive alignment with global digital initiatives (e.g. ERP / customs systems)* **Leadership & Influence**
+ Lead, coach, and develop the Global
Trade Compliance team and subject‐matter experts
+ Build strong cross‐functional partnerships across Operations, Legal, Finance, and Commercial teams**What We’re Looking For**You are a **seasoned trade compliance leader** who combines deep technical expertise with strong business acumen and executive presence.**You bring:*** 8+ years experience in **global trade compliance** within a multinational environment (MedTech, Life Sciences, Manufacturing or complex regulated industries preferred)* Strong knowledge of **customs, import/export controls, sanctions, FTAs, and global trade regulations*** Proven ability to operate at **senior leadership level**, influencing without authority* Experience leading **regional or global compliance programs** and managing regulatory risk at scale* A pragmatic, solution‐oriented mindset with the confidence to navigate ambiguity and change* Strong communication skills and the ability to engage regulators, external partners, and internal executives**Why Join Us*** A **high‐visibility leadership role** with real strategic impact* Exposure to **complex, global trade challenges** in fast‐growing and diverse markets* Opportunity to shape the **future of Trade Compliance** through digitalisation and transformation* A culture that values **collaboration, accountability, and courageous leadership****You. Unlimited.**We believe in creating the greatest good for society. Our Strongest investments are in our people and patients we serve.**Inclusion and Belonging**: Committed to Welcoming, Celebrating and Thriving on Inclusion and Belonging, Learn more about our Employee Inclusion Groups on our website (www.smith-nephew.com)**Your Future**: Generous annual bonus and pension Schemes, Save As You Earn share options, and a car allowance.**Work/Life Balance**: Flexible Vacation and Time Off, Paid Holidays and Paid Volunteering Hours, so we can give back to our communities!**Your Wellbeing**: Private Health and Dental plans, Healthcare Cash Plans, Income Protection, Life Assurance and much more.**Flexibility**: Hybrid Working Model (For most professional roles).**Training**: Hands-On, Team-Customised, Mentorship.**Extra Perks**: Discounts on Gyms and fitness clubs, Salary Sacrifice Bicycle and Car Schemes and many other Employee discounts.Stay connected by joining our Talent Community.We're more than just a company - we're a community! Follow us on LinkedIn to see how we support and empower our employees and patients every day.
Check us out on Glassdoor for a glimpse behind the scenes and a sneak peek into **You. Unlimited.**, life, culture, and benefits at S+N.Explore our website and learn more about our mission, our team, and the opportunities we offer. #J-18808-Ljbffr