Customs Associate Manager

As Associate Manager for EC&E in Amsterdam, you lead daily customs operations and mentor the team to ensure compliant, efficient workflows across UK, NI, ROI, ES, FR, NL, PL. You bridge strategy and execution, optimizing import/export activities and driving improvements in compliance, documentation, and KPI performance. You will oversee vendors, audits, and system issues, while shaping a culture of continuous improvement. This role offers cross-functional impact in a fast-paced, data-driven environment.

• Oversee daily workflow of the EC&E team and ensure customs compliance and accurate documentation across multiple lanes
• Manage customs vendors spend (≈ 5 million per year) and ensure correct application of import duties and VAT (≈ 160 million per year)
• Provide day-to-day coaching and development for a team of customs analysts
• Serve as primary escalation point for high-priority logistics bottlenecks and complex customs disputes
• Audit documentation to identify risks before impact and enforce SOP/compliance standards
• Monitor KPIs (clearance lead times, broker performance, extra costs) and drive corrective actions when targets are missed
• Coordinate with internal stakeholders to resolve operational friction and act as systems expert for OTM/GTM/SAP issues
• Support master data management and resolve technical system blockers for the team
• Bridge strategy and daily delivery to improve EC&E performance

• EU Working Permit (Orientation Year not included)
• Master’s degree in relevant field or equivalent experience
• 5+ years of hands-on shipping/transportation/warehouse/logistics operations experience
• Strong grasp of European trade dynamics and customs familiarity
• Familiarity with customs regimes and documentation
• Advanced ERP/TMS/WMS proficiency (SAP preferred), EDI, carrier portals, and scheduling tools
• Excellent knowledge of export/import processes, Incoterms, and shipping documents
• Advanced Excel; experience with Power BI or Tableau
• Excellent communication, customer focus, and cross-functional collaboration skills
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment, manage multiple priorities, and drive continuous improvement

• Excellent interpersonal skills for engagement with senior management and diverse stakeholders
• Confidence to push back when needed and navigate resistance
• Ability to simplify complex challenges and implement fast, practical solutions
• SAP
• OTM
• GTM