Trade Compliance Manager
Supply Chain | Hybrid in Bannockburn, IL | Full Time | From $80,000 to $100,000 per year
About Us:
Champro® is a privately-owned sporting goods and apparel manufacturer that has been in business for 30+ years. We deliver high-value, traditional & innovative athletic equipment and apparel via outstanding, integrity-driven customer service. Our business philosophy is focused on our customers and we take pride in providing them with the best overall values in team sports products.
Position:
We are seeking a detail-oriented and strategic Trade Compliance Manager to lead our global trade compliance program. In this role, you will be responsible for ensuring that Champro adheres to all international trade regulations, including import/export laws, sanctions, and customs requirements.
You will serve as the subject matter expert for the organization, minimizing risk while optimizing duty spend and supply chain velocity. You will act as the primary liaison between our company, customs brokers, freight forwarders, and government agencies.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Import & Export Compliance
● Oversee daily import/export operations to ensure compliance with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS), and other relevant Partner Government Agencies (e.g., FDA, FCC, EPA).
● Determine and validate Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) classifications, Export Control Classification Numbers (ECCN), Country of Origin, and customs valuation for all products.
● Manage denied party screening and ensure compliance with OFAC sanctions and embargoes.
2. Strategy & Process Improvement
● Develop, implement, and maintain internal Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and the company’s Trade Compliance Manual.
● Identify opportunities for duty savings through Free Trade Agreements (USMCA, etc.), duty drawback programs, or tariff engineering.
● Monitor regulatory changes (e.g., Section 301 tariffs) and advise executive leadership on the potential business impact.
3. Auditing & Risk Management
● Conduct periodic internal audits of import/export transactions to identify gaps and implement corrective actions.
● Manage external audits and respond to Requests for Information (CF-28) or Notices of Action (CF-29) from Customs.
● Oversee the performance of customs brokers and freight forwarders, conducting regular business reviews (QBRs) to ensure KPI targets are met.
4. Training
● Develop and deliver trade compliance training programs for internal departments (Finance, Product Management, Sourcing, and Supply Chain).
Qualifications:
Required:
● Education: Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, International Business, Law, or a related field.
● Experience: 5–8+ years of experience in international trade compliance, customs brokerage, or logistics.
● Technical Knowledge: Deep understanding of the Code of Federal Regulations (19 CFR and 15 CFR), Incoterms® 2020, and EAR/ITAR regulations.
● Systems: Proficiency with ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, NetSuite) and Global Trade Management (GTM) software (e.g., Descartes, Amber Road).
Preferred:
● Licensed Customs Broker (LCB) certification is highly desired.
● Certified U.S. Export Compliance Officer (CUSECO) or similar certification.
● Experience with specialized clearances (e.g., ITAR for defense, FDA for medical devices).
● Bilingual abilities (e.g., Spanish, Mandarin) are a plus.
Key Competencies:
● Analytical Thinking: Ability to interpret complex legal text and apply it to practical business scenarios.
● Communication: Strong ability to explain complex regulatory concepts to non-technical stakeholders.
● Integrity: Unwavering commitment to ethical standards and regulatory adherence.
● Agility: Ability to pivot quickly in response to shifting geopolitical trade environments.
Company Culture:
We are proud to offer eligible associates a full-range of benefits including medical, dental, vision and life insurance, as well as short-term and long-term disability, 401K, Profit Sharing, paid time off, holidays, and reimbursement toward gym membership fees. A collaborative atmosphere working together to exceed our customers’ expectations, as well as, an Equal Opportunity Employer bringing together diverse individuals to develop new and innovative solutions
