Trade Compliance Specialist

Location: Rotterdam
Hours: Full-time
Contract: 6 months
Language: English (French is a plus)

About the Role

One of our international partners in the chemicals industry is seeking a Trade Compliance Specialist.

This role focuses on the hands-on execution of import and export compliance activities, ensuring smooth cross-border operations and adherence to customs regulations. You will work closely with the Trade Compliance Lead, customs brokers, and internal stakeholders across Europe, helping safeguard compliant international trade flows during a period of organizational transformation.

This position is ideal for someone with a strong operational Trade Compliance, Export, Customs, or Logistics background who enjoys working in a structured environment where accuracy, compliance, and execution are critical.

What You'll Do

Trade Compliance

• Execute daily import and export activities across Europe and the UK.
• Follow up on customs corrections and non-closures (T1/T2).
• Support EMCS and excise administration activities.
• Monitor and manage Confirmation of Exit (CoE) processes.
• Maintain and verify preferential origin documentation (SSD/LTSD).
• Perform internal trade compliance controls (TCCF).
• Coordinate operational customs activities with external customs brokers.
• Prepare periodic customs and compliance-related returns under supervision.
• Ensure export documentation and customs declarations are completed accurately and on time.
• Support clearing orders and maintaining required shipping and customs documentation.
• Contribute to compliance improvements and operational excellence within the trade compliance function.

What You Bring

• Minimum 5 years of experience in Trade Compliance, Export Operations, Customs, Logistics, or a related field.
• Experience working within an export department, preferably in the chemical, manufacturing, or industrial sectors.
• Strong knowledge of export requirements, customs procedures, customs declarations, and shipping documentation.
• Experience working with customs brokers and external logistics providers.
• Understanding of Dutch customs regulations; knowledge of Dutch law is advantageous.
• Experience with import/export operations within the EU and UK.
• Strong attention to detail and a structured, execution-focused mindset.
• Excellent communication skills in English.
• French language skills are considered a plus.

Systems & Tools

• Experience with SAP is required.
• Experience with customs-related systems is highly desirable.
• Strong Excel skills are preferred.
• Experience with compliance reporting or operational KPI tracking is a plus.

Nice-to-Have Skills

• Experience as a Customs Declarant or working closely with customs declarations and certificates.
• Knowledge of origin rules, EMCS, excise processes, and EU trade compliance frameworks.
• Background in the chemical industry or other highly regulated sectors.

Benefits & Perks

• Competitive salary.
• Hybrid working model.
• Opportunity to work with experienced Trade Compliance professionals.
• Exposure to a high-impact carve-out within a global organization.
• International and collaborative working environment.
• Opportunities to further develop expertise in customs, compliance, and international trade operations.

Interested?

Ready to ensure smooth, compliant international trade operations?

Apply now via our website or contact Nick Keizer via n.keizer(a)jpgray.nl for more information.