Fortress Recruit is proud to be representing a global leader in advanced sealing technologies, to source a Legal & Export Control Manager to support applications across defence, aerospace, and industrial sectors.
Reporting to the GM, you'll lead the development and oversight of export compliance and legal governance across multiple UK manufacturing and distribution sites. This role is well-suited to someone with strong expertise in UK, EU, and US trade regulations (including EAR and ITAR), ideally gained in aerospace or defence environments.
Key responsibilities will include:
* Managing day-to-day export activities in compliance with regulations, with a strong focus on outbound shipments and technical documentation.
* Overseeing export license applications, renewals, and maintenance, particularly under ITAR, EAR, UK Export Control, and related frameworks.
* Acting as the primary liaison for HMRC, including audit preparation and regulatory inspections.
* Introducing standardised filing procedures and export compliance packs across all UK sites to ensure audit-readiness and operational consistency.
* Supporting flow-down requirements of FAR and DFARS regulations, particularly relevant to upcoming programmes and contracts.
* Advising on general contractual agreements, and legal contract terms
To succeed in this role, you will have:
* Strong expertise in UK, EU, and US export control regulations, including ITAR, EAR, and sanctions compliance.
* Experience working in a compliance-focused role within a defence, aerospace, or highly regulated engineering environment.
* Familiarity with FAR/DFARS frameworks and their application in defence contracting
* Excellent interpersonal and communication skills; able to work cross-functionally and influence at all levels.
* Legal literacy around commercial agreements, ideally with previous exposure to supplier contracts and confidentiality terms.
* SC clearance or ability to obtain
The position offers significant autonomy and variety, with a hybrid base in the Midlands and regular UK travel. In return, you’ll receive a competitive salary and bonus scheme, plus a company car or cash allowance. Flexible working is supported.
This is a high-impact role within a forward-thinking organisation at the forefront of global engineering. For a full job description or confidential chat, contact rebecca@fortressrecruit.com or call Becki directly.