Global Trade Operations Lead (Supply Chain)

who we are

lululemon is an innovative performance apparel company for yoga, running, training, and other athletic pursuits. Setting the bar in technical fabrics and functional design, we create transformational products and experiences that support people in moving, growing, connecting, and being well. We owe our success to our innovative product, emphasis on stores, commitment to our people, and the incredible connections we make in every community we’re in. As a company, we focus on creating positive change to build a healthier, thriving future. In particular, that includes creating an equitable, inclusive and growth-focused environment for our people.

about the role

We’re looking for a Trade Operations Lead to oversee trade and customs operations for our bonded warehouses in the UK and NL. In this role, you will manage day-to-day trade activities across the EMEA region, focusing on the smooth movement of goods in and out of our DCs.

You will play a key part in ensuring we stay compliant, avoid unnecessary costs, and keep operations running efficiently. You will work closely with our customs brokers, 3PL partners, suppliers, and internal teams to make sure everything moves on time and in line with regulations.

If you enjoy problem-solving, improving processes, and collaborating across teams, this role is for you.

responsibilities:

As the Trade Operations Lead, your main responsibilities involve overseeing import and export processes, ensuring compliance with customs regulations, and identifying opportunities for cost savings.

What you will be doing:

• Customs Compliance: Manage customs compliance with outsourced customs brokers to ensure all documentation for customs declarations is properly planned and executed for our goods movements to and from our distribution centres, which are customs warehouses operated by 3PL. Be knowledgeable about customs warehouse requirements, stay updated on changing regulations, manage necessary documentation, and ensure proper classification, valuation, and duty payments.
• Supporting Business Initiatives: Support ongoing projects and new business initiatives within Trade team’s portfolio to achieve the monthly, quarterly and yearly objectives.
• Managing Customs Brokers: Collaborate closely with customs brokers and other partners to facilitate the smooth customs processes and timely clearance of goods on behalf of the organization.
• Finding Cost Savings: Identify opportunities to optimize costs related to customs operations. Evaluate alternative transportation routes, confirm with the customs brokers that FTA programs are being leveraged to their fullest potential, and implement strategies to minimize customs duties and taxes legally.
• Managing Risk: Mitigate potential risks associated with customs compliance and ensure the organization meets its cargo security requirements. Conduct transactional monitoring and regular audits of customs entries, implement internal control measures.
• Improving Processes: Continuously seek ways to enhance efficiency and streamline trade operations. Identify areas for improvement, such as automation of manual processes, leveraging technology solutions, and coordinating with cross-functional teams to optimize upstream supply chain/logistics.
• Working Across Teams: Effective collaboration with various internal and external stakeholders is crucial. Work closely with procurement, logistics, and finance teams, and maintain open communication with customs authorities and government agencies. Provide regular data reports on customs brokerage and duty costs to finance teams.
• Logistics Support: Assist with domestic and international shipments, including tracking shipments, and communicating with carriers, freight forwarders, and 3PL distribution partners. Support the compliant shipment of non-inventory goods movements (e.g., donations, IT equipment shipments to new opening stores, samples) according to UK and EU customs rules and regulations.
• Record Keeping and Documentation: Maintain all customs files and records (e.g., customs documents, preferential origin certificates) to ensure proper record-keeping and avoid penalties or delays. Ensure all import transactions meet compliance standards set by UK and EU customs regulations and other governmental agencies.
• Handling Exceptions: Resolve exceptions encountered during the import/export clearance process by collaborating with internal and external stakeholders. Exceptions may include incorrect classification of goods, missing or incomplete documentation, customs delays, or other unforeseen circumstances that hinder the smooth flow of goods through customs.

requirements:

• University graduate in business, international supply chain management and/or trade-related disciplines is preferred
• 5+ years of experience in Customs operations
• Strong analytical, prioritizing, interpersonal, problem-solving, budgeting, project management (from conception to completion) and planning skills
• Mandatory strong verbal and written communication skills in English
• Good knowledge of UK and familiarity with EU customs rules and regulations, compliance requirements, and trade operations
• Knowledge of global trade management platforms and customs filing systems a plus
• Experience with textile and apparel importers a plus
• Capable of working with internal and external cross-functional teams and partners, and collaborating with stakeholders across the business
• High degree of proficiency MS Office Suite, Outlook & Internet applications
• A good understanding of WMS and CMS systems, ideally has experience working with SAP/SAP GTS, but similar experience may suffice

must haves

• Acknowledge the presence of choice in every moment and take personal responsibility.
• Possess an entrepreneurial spirit and continuously innovate to achieve great results.
• Communicate with honesty and kindness and create the space for others to do the same.
• Lead with courage, knowing the possibility of greatness is bigger than the fear of failure.
• Foster connection by putting people first and building trusting relationships.
• Integrate fun and joy as a way of being and working.

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