Senior Manager, Customs Trade Compliance EMEA

At VF, we believe world-class trade compliance is a competitive advantage. We are seeking a highly accomplished Senior Manager, Customs Trade Compliance EMEA to lead our customs organization from our global headquarters in Stabio, Switzerland.

As Senior Manager, you will lead a network of Country Customs Leads across multiple EU Member States and the UK and oversee customs and trade compliance teams located within VF's distribution centers throughout the region. You will serve as a strategic partner to Supply Chain, Logistics, Finance, Legal, Tax, Sourcing, and Commercial teams, helping VF navigate an increasingly complex global trade environment.

This role offers the opportunity to shape regional customs strategy, drive operational excellence, develop high-performing teams, and contribute directly to VF's growth and transformation agenda.

Leadership & Team Management

• →Lead, mentor, and develop a network of Country Customs Leads across multiple European jurisdictions and the United Kingdom.
• →Provide leadership and direction to in-country customs compliance teams located within VF's regional distribution centers.
• →Foster a culture of compliance, accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• →Drive talent development, succession planning, performance management, and organizational capability building across the customs function.
• →Act as a trusted advisor and subject matter expert for senior leadership on customs and trade compliance matters.

Customs Compliance & Governance

• →Ensure compliance with all applicable import and export customs regulations across the EMEA region.

• →Establish and maintain robust customs governance frameworks, policies, procedures, and internal controls.
• →Monitor regulatory developments and assess their impact on business operations, proactively implementing necessary changes.
• →Manage customs audits, inquiries, and interactions with customs authorities and government agencies.

Business Partnership & Operational Excellence

• →Collaborate closely with regional and global stakeholders across Supply Chain, Logistics, Finance, Legal, Tax, Sourcing, Product Development, and Commercial teams.
• →Translate strategic customs objectives into operational initiatives and measurable business outcomes.
• →Lead continuous improvement projects that enhance customs compliance, operational efficiency, and service levels.
• →Drive standardization and best-practice sharing across markets, countries, and distribution centers.

The ideal candidate is a strategic and collaborative leader who combines deep technical customs expertise with strong people leadership capabilities. You are comfortable navigating ambiguity, influencing across organizational levels, and building strong partnerships across functions and geographies.

You thrive in a fast-paced international environment and are passionate about developing teams, driving operational excellence, and ensuring VF remains at the forefront of customs and trade compliance.

• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain, International Trade, Business, Law, Accounting, Logistics, or a related field.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in customs, international trade, or global trade compliance.
• Proven leadership experience managing geographically dispersed teams and complex regional operations.
• Strong understanding of customs regulations, import/export compliance, tariff classification, valuation, origin, and duty management within Europe and international trade environments.
• Experience working with customs authorities, brokers, and government agencies.
• Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and influencing skills.

• Experience leading customs compliance operations across multiple European countries.
• Working knowledge of UK customs regulations and post-Brexit trade requirements.
• Experience within a multinational consumer goods, apparel, retail, manufacturing, or logistics environment.

We’re in the business of unleashing human potential, driven by the ideas, energy and commitment of our people. That’s why we offer comprehensive benefits that encourage mental, physical and financial well-being for all VF associates. When it comes to benefits, we’re the total package.

• A supportive feedback-based culture where respect and integrity guide us in what we do
• An inclusive international environment where people of diverse backgrounds, lifestyles and nationalities love working together
• Be part of an iconic lifestyle brand in a multi brand, multi countries organization
• On site gym offering health and well-being initiatives
• A discount card with 50% on all VF brands
• Break out areas offering complimentary hot drinks

As an equal opportunity employer, we strive to foster a culture of belonging based on respect, connection, openness and authenticity. We are committed to building and maintaining a workplace that celebrates the diversity of our associates, allowing them to bring their authentic selves to work every day.

If you like what you have read and want to join our team then we would like to hear from you!