Manager, Trade Compliance Optimization

Position Summary

The Manager, Trade Compliance Optimization will be an essential member of Illumina’s Global Trade Compliance Team (GTC). The Manager will play a critical role in optimizing import/export costs while ensuring compliance with global trade regulations for Illumina. This position focuses on developing long-term strategies to optimize customs duties by leveraging trade programs and regulatory frameworks, as well as other cost mitigation strategies. Additionally, the Manager will support global trade risk management and standards strategy, assisting with streamlining of global trade standards development and execution. Success in this role requires strong cross-functional collaboration, project management skills, and regulatory knowledge.

Job responsibilities:

• Develop and lead multi-year strategy to optimize customs duties and reduce import/export costs through programs like Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), Duty Drawback, Foreign Trade Zones (FTZs), Bonded Warehouses, and Tariff Engineering
• Support activities of the Illumina’s GTC’s Risk and Standards team and act as the team’s point of contact in the AMEA region
• Monitor and analyze tariff classifications, valuation methods, and country of origin rules to identify cost-saving opportunities and incorporate into the strategy
• Collaborate with GTC team and cross-functional stakeholders to drive continuous improvement initiatives that increase compliance with global trade regulations.
• Work closely with supply chain, procurement, logistics, finance, and IT teams to integrate duty-saving measures into global sourcing and distribution strategies.
• Provide regular reports and presentations to senior management on duty optimization initiatives and financial impacts.

Position Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree is required. Advanced degree (MA, JD, MBA) is an advantage.
• 5-7 years’ experience in international trade, deep understanding of core trade compliance topics, including country of origin, valuation, and classification.
• A breadth of knowledge of duty optimization programs, including free trade agreements, duty drawback, etc.
• Experience in life science or medical device industry would be advantageous.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, judgement, creativity, flexibility.
• Experience engaging cross-functionally and collaboratively to develop and implement compliance programs.
• Detail oriented and highly organized; ability to multi-task several tasks/projects at once.
• Ability to adapt to rapid change, work with a sense of urgency, and manage time effectively.