Global Export Controls and Sanctions Manager (m/f/d)

About the JobAbout the RoleOur client, a leading international organisation with a complex global supply chain, is seeking an experienced Global Head of Customs, Export Control & Trade Compliance to lead its worldwide trade compliance framework.This senior position sits at the centre of the organisation's global operations, providing strategic direction across customs compliance, export controls and sanctions management. The role works closely with regional compliance leaders, operational sites, supply chain functions, procurement, logistics, tax, IT and commercial stakeholders to ensure consistent governance and regulatory adherence across multiple jurisdictions.Key focus areas include global policy development, compliance transformation, process optimisation, systems ownership, and the standardisation and automation of international trade compliance activities.ResponsibilitiesTake global ownership of customs compliance, export controls and sanctions compliance programmesProvide leadership and functional oversight to regional compliance teams and site-level stakeholdersDevelop, implement and maintain global policies, procedures, standards and governance frameworksEnsure consistent application of trade compliance requirements across international operationsOversee sanctions screening, export control processes and customs compliance activitiesLead risk assessment and control framework development to support regulatory complianceDrive global trade compliance transformation, digitalisation and automation initiativesOwn and enhance trade compliance technology platforms, including SAP GTS environmentsPartner with supply chain, logistics, procurement, sales, tax, production and IT teams to improve compliance effectivenessIdentify opportunities to improve business processes, data quality and operational efficiencyManage relationships with regulatory authorities, external advisers and industry bodiesDeliver training, guidance and subject matter expertise to internal stakeholders worldwideAbout YouExtensive experience within international customs, export control or global trade compliance functionsStrong technical knowledge of customs regulations, export controls and sanctions compliance requirementsProven experience working within a multinational manufacturing, industrial or complex global business environmentDemonstrable leadership experience across international teams, regional functions and decentralised operationsExpertise in developing and implementing global compliance policies, standards and control frameworksHands-on experience leading large-scale transformation, process improvement and automation programmesStrong knowledge of SAP GTS, particularly customs management, export control and sanctions screening functionalityExperience designing and optimising end-to-end trade compliance processesStrong understanding of the interaction between customs compliance and broader supply chain operationsAbility to engage effectively with senior stakeholders across multiple business functions and geographiesCommercially aware with strong analytical and risk management capabilitiesFluent German and English language skillsWho This Role Would SuitThis opportunity would particularly suit professionals currently working within Customs Compliance, Global Trade Compliance, Export Controls, International Trade Governance, Trade Compliance Technology, SAP GTS, or Regulatory Compliance leadership roles who are seeking broader global ownership, strategic influence and responsibility for international trade compliance programmes within a complex multinational organisation.