Customs Manager

Customs Manager Location: Manchester Salary: £DOE Job Type: Full-Time, Permanent An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Customs Manager to join a well-established international logistics and supply chain organisation. This leadership role is responsible for overseeing customs operations, developing high-performing teams, ensuring regulatory compliance, and driving operational excellence across multiple locations. This position would suit a customs professional with strong leadership capabilities, extensive customs knowledge, and a passion for delivering excellent customer service while improving operational performance. The Role As Customs Manager, you will provide leadership and direction to a team responsible for import, export and transit customs activities. You will ensure that customs processes are compliant, efficient, and aligned to both business and customer requirements. You will work closely with customers, operational teams, senior stakeholders, and regulatory bodies to maintain service standards and identify opportunities for growth and continuous improvement. Key Responsibilities • Lead and develop customs teams across multiple operational locations • Ensure customs declarations and associated processes are completed accurately and in line with current legislation • Promote a culture of compliance, quality, and operational excellence • Review workflows and implement process enhancements to improve efficiency and service delivery • Act as an escalation point for operational and customer-related customs matters • Monitor industry, legislative and regulatory developments and communicate relevant changes to operational teams • Support customer retention and business development initiatives through expert customs guidance • Build strong relationships with customers, internal departments, and external stakeholders • Manage workforce planning, performance reviews, coaching, and employee development activities • Contribute to operational projects and continuous improvement programmes • Provide leadership support during periods of change and business growth • Produce management information and operational reports to support decision-making About You • Significant experience within customs operations, freight forwarding, or international trade compliance • Previous people management experience within a fast-paced operational environment • Strong understanding of UK customs regulations and border compliance requirements • Experience managing performance, employee development, recruitment, and engagement activities • Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills • The ability to balance operational priorities while maintaining high levels of accuracy and compliance • Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities Desirable Experience • Experience working with customs software and port community systems • Knowledge of wider government import/export control systems and associated regulatory processes • Experience within logistics, freight forwarding, shipping, or supply chain environments • Project or change management experience What's on Offer • Performance-focused leadership role • Career development opportunities within a growing international business • Collaborative and supportive working environment • Comprehensive benefits package How to Apply If you are keen to apply, please contact Adam Norris at Reed or apply now.