Manager, Trade Operations & Compliance (US) at Central Garden & Pet

Description

INTRODUCTIONThis role is responsible for managing all U.S. customs compliance and brokerage activities. The position ensures adherence to CBP and Partner Government Agency (PGA) requirements and serves as the companys subject matter expert on classification, valuation, origin, and trade programs. The purpose of the role is to maintain compliant and efficient U.S. trade operations.Active Licensed Customs Broker (LCB) issued by U.S customs and Border Protection is required.KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Customs Operations
  • Handle all U.S. import and export compliance activities, including entry preparation, filing, post-entry actions, and recordkeeping in accordance with CBP regulations.
  • Monitor clearances, engaging with brokers to ensure accurate entries, investigating exceptions to resolution.
• Classification & Valuation
  • Manage HTS classification, valuation (including assists and related-party pricing), country of origin, and ADD/CVD applicability.
  • Lead research on policies and practices associated with trade agreements, and lead on classification resolution disputes, proactively managing tariff exposure, including customer tariff recovery documentation.
• Data & Analytics
  • Administration-level fluency with US Customs ACE Portal and trade reports to monitor compliance, duty spend, and operational efficiency.
  • Develop dashboards and KPIs to measure performance.
• Regulatory Engagement
  • Act as the primary contact for CBP and PGAs (e.g., FDA, EPA, USDA). Manage inquiries, audits, and maintain CTPAT status.
• Policies & Controls
  • Develop and maintain SOPs, broker management processes, and compliance training. Track regulatory updates and implement changes as needed.
• Trade Programs & Cost Savings
  • Identify and implement duty-minimization opportunities (e.g., USMCA, drawback, FTZ, reconciliation) in partnership with Procurement, Logistics, Supply Chain, and Finance.
• Continuous Improvement
  • Resolve import/export delays, perform root-cause analysis, and implement corrective actions to improve compliance, accuracy, and cycle time.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Active U.S. Customs Broker License.
• 7+ years in customs brokerage, trade compliance, or trade operations.
• Strong knowledge of U.S. Customs regulations, HTS, valuation, origin, and PGA requirements.
• Experience with ACE Portal, preferably as system administrator, post-entry processes, SOP development, broker management, and responding to CBP/PGA audits.
• Demonstrated ability to act independently upon information and make decisions in adherence to compliance, regulations and policies
• Demonstrated ability to identify and understand issues and resolve inquiries and develop appropriate solutions quickly, effectively and independently
• Strong analytical skills with advanced Excel and ability to work with large datasets.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.

Preferred

• CTPAT program management experience.
• Experience with customs audits, ADD/CVD, reconciliation, and USMCA qualification.
• Exposure to global trade compliance.

Tools & Systems

• Trade Systems: ACE Portal, brokerage software.
• ERP: SAP (preferred) or equivalent.
• Productivity: Microsoft Office (advanced Excel); data visualization tools a plus.

WORK ENVIRONMENTFlexible, hybrid work available. Great company culture that is supportive and believes in continuous learning and growth.BENEFITS PACKAGE & EMPLOYEE PROGRAMS

• Paid Time Off Enjoy paid vacation days, holidays,anda floating holiday!
• Top-Tier Health Coverage Comprehensivehealth insurance benefitsinclude medical, dental, vision, accident, disability, dependent life, and other voluntary options. Our Health Savings Accounts (HSA)are available with a company-funded stipend.
• Peace of Mind Employer-paidLife Insurance
• Secure Your Future A competitive401(k) plan with employer matchto help you plan ahead.
• Family First PaidParental Leaveso you can focus on what matters most.
• Grow With Us We support your journey withEducation Assistancefor college degrees and professional certifications.
• Career Advancement Opportunities for career advancement and internal mobility.
• Never Stop Learning Unlock access tothousands of free online coursesthrough our Learning & Development platform.
• Celebrate You OurEmployee Recognition Programsspotlight your achievements and contributions.
• Support When You Need It ConfidentialEmployee Assistance Program (EAP)for personal and professional support.
• Get Rewarded Earn bonus dollars with ourReferral Bonus Program.
• Perks Galore Enjoy discounts on cell phones, movie tickets, gym memberships, and more.

Central Garden & Pet Company (NASDAQ: CENT), (NASDAQ: CENTA) understands that home is central to life and has proudly nurtured happy and healthy homes for over 40 years. With fiscal 2024 net sales of $3.2 billion, Central is on a mission to lead the future of the pet and garden industries. The Companys innovative and trusted products are dedicated to helping lawns grow greener, gardens bloom bigger, pets live healthier, and communities grow stronger. Central is home to a leading portfolio of more than 65 high-quality brands including Amdro, Aqueon, Cadet, C&S, Farnam, Ferry-Morse, Four Paws, Kaytee, Nylaboneand Pennington, strong manufacturing and distribution capabilities, and a passionate, entrepreneurial growth culture. Central is based in Walnut Creek, California, with 6,450 employees primarily across North America. Visitwww.central.comto learn more.We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by law.