Director, Trade Compliance-FTZ Operations | Forensic & Litigation Consulting

FTI Consulting•Columbia, WA

2d•Remote

About The Position

The Trade Compliance Director-FTZ Operations is responsible for managing all Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) operations, ensuring compliance with FTZ regulations, U.S. Customs procedures, and other relevant federal agency requirements (e.g., FDA, FCC). This role serves as the primary resource and advisor to company leadership, site/division management, and clients on FTZ strategies, operational optimization, and regulatory compliance. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, highly organized, and strategically minded, capable of managing complex FTZ operations while providing guidance, implementing internal controls, and improving processes across multiple sites or divisions. This position offers exposure to cross-functional teams and the opportunity to directly impact operational efficiency, compliance outcomes, and client success.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Logistics, Accounting, Finance, International Business, or related field
Minimum 7 years of experience in trade compliance or FTZ operations, including at least 4 years of hands-on FTZ experience
Strong working knowledge of FTZ regulations, CBP procedures, inventory control systems, and federal reporting requirements
Excellent written and verbal communication skills; ability to influence cross-functional teams and interact with clients at all levels
Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Access, Outlook) and familiarity with FTZ systems
Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis; this position does not provide sponsorship

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree
Accredited Zones Specialist (AZS) certification preferred; Licensed Customs Broker (LCB) or other trade compliance certifications a plus
Hands-on experience managing FTZ inventory, reconciliations, and regulatory filings
Experience in trade compliance, international logistics, or cross-border operations
Proven ability to lead projects, implement process improvements, and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment

Responsibilities

Oversee day-to-day FTZ operations, including admissions, withdrawals, inventory tracking, duty payments, and customs entries
Maintain, reconcile, and audit FTZ inventory records; proactively resolve discrepancies to ensure audit readiness and minimize compliance risk
Prepare, review, and submit all required FTZ documentation, CBP filings, and federal regulatory reports
Ensure operations comply with 19CFR, 15CFR, FTZ Board regulations, and other applicable company policies
Manage the preparation and filing of annual FTZ Board reports, CBP reconciliations, and other required submissions
Serve as the primary FTZ resource for clients and internal leadership, providing guidance on regulatory compliance, risk management, and operational strategy
Advise on FTZ strategies, including duty savings, supply chain optimization, product launches, and consolidations
Review transactions, audit documentation, and provide recommendations to improve compliance and operational efficiency
Liaise with U.S. Customs, FDA, FCC, and other agencies on behalf of clients to ensure proper procedures and strong relationships
Develop, implement, and maintain internal FTZ operating procedures and internal controls.
Analyze operational challenges, identify risks, and implement solutions to prevent errors or compliance issues
Apply critical thinking to assess complex issues and provide proactive, long-term solutions

Benefits

Competitive total compensation, including bonus earning potential
Full package of benefits plans, including medical, dental, and vision coverage along with life and disability insurance
Generous paid time off and holidays
Company matched 401(k) retirement savings plan
Potential for flexible work arrangements
Generous paid parental leave with available planning tools, virtual expert coaching services and flex return support
Family care benefits, including back-up child/elder care
Employee wellness platform
Employee recognition programs
Paid time off for volunteering in your community
Corporate matching for charitable donations most important to you
Make an impact in our communities through company sponsored pro bono work
Professional development and certification programs
Free in-office snacks and drinks
Free smartphone and cellular plan (if applicable)
FTI Perks & Discounts at retailers and businesses
Upscale offices close to public transportation