Our client manages various business units.
In the context of the rapid growth of the group, and to advance the organization as a strategically clear, organizationally coherent, and culturally strong entity, our client is seeking a Customs Director to lead the Customs and VAT business unit and related processes.
This executive will ensure that all indirect tax matters, both internally and for clients, meet standards and are error-free. The team currently possesses strong knowledge in customs and VAT-related matters but seeks to reinforce the team with a professional to oversee the business unit and further align the business strategy.
The focus of this position will be on leading various customs and VAT operations within the organization and taking full responsibility for the business unit's P&L. The Customs Director must be meticulous and analytical, with deep knowledge of indirect tax practices. The company expects reliability, strong organizational skills, and expertise in risk management and compliance to assist and advise clients on various Customs and VAT topics.
TASK DESCRIPTION
Business Efficiency and Standardization
- Lead initiatives to standardize and automate efficient Customs processes across different countries to support sustainable growth.
- Define the strategy for Customs and VAT operations across the group.
- Implement a future target operating model for the Customs organization.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of business processes and make recommendations for improvements.
(Customs) Compliance
- Lead initiatives to implement improvement solutions for Customs compliance processes.
- Drive the development and implementation of an efficient Customs compliance framework with market-conform targets.
- Implement and roll out a risk-based test cycle, including risk management and control management over operations' effectiveness, financial reliability, and compliance with all applicable directives and regulations.
Business Partnering and Responsibility
Internal
- Maintain open communication with the senior leadership team, including quarterly business reviews.
- Lead the internal management reporting process with area managers.
- Oversee communication channels within the team.
External
- Manage relationships with tax authorities and external advisors.
- Inform and follow up on the onboarding of new and existing clients.
VAT
- Take responsibility for the VAT fiscal representation process within the various countries as part of the Indirect Tax business unit.
- Provide development and support on indirect tax matters, including the implications of business decisions for clients and internal stakeholders.
Finance
- Take responsibility and ownership of the business unit P&L with country managers.
- Review and optimize the billing process within the department.
- Identify loopholes and recommend risk aversion measures and cost savings.
- Facilitate the sharing of indirect tax standard methodologies across finance teams and other stakeholders.
REQUIREMENTS
Technical Competencies
- Proven experience as a cross-border Customs Manager with relevant experience managing various functions within the Customs environment.
- Organizational and leadership abilities.
- In-depth understanding of Customs and VAT practices.
- Updated knowledge of applicable laws and regulations.
- Integrity and reliability.
- Proficient in MS Office (especially Excel), Customs, and accounting software.
- Strong mathematical and analytical skills.
Personal Qualities & Skills
- Driven, structured, and have a can-do mindset.
- Critical of own and others' work, driving to get the best results by challenging teams.
- Proactive and self-starting attitude, capable of working independently and adopting a hands-on approach.
- Innovative and creative, with attention to detail.
- Team leader, capable of managing cross-border teams.
- Customer-oriented, focusing on understanding and meeting customer needs, ensuring solutions are tailored and effective.
- Ready to work in a global context, necessitating cultural sensitivity and effective communication across different teams, and willingness to travel.
Experience & Education
- Master's degree in Tax Law, Economics, Management, or Engineering.
Communication Skills
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English, facilitating clear and effective interaction within the company and with external partners.
