Manager, Trade Compliance

SPARC Group LLC is an operating partner to several global brands, providing retail, ecommerce and wholesale management, design, sourcing, logistics, construction, real estate and other operational and administrative support. SPARC currently operates Aeropostale, Nautica, Forever21, Lucky Brand, Brooks Brothers, Eddie Bauer and most recently Reebok in the United States and Puerto Rico. SPARC Group LLC is owned, through its parent company SPARC Group Holdings LLC, by Simon Property Group and Authentic Brands Group. With Aeropostale, Nautica, Forever21, Lucky Brand, Brooks Brothers, Eddie Bauer and Reebok combined, SPARC Group operates over 1600 retail locations, a strong wholesale business with thousands of points of sale in the U.S., and the ecommerce platforms for all brands.

 

The Manager, Trade Compliance is a member of the team responsible for the classification of the brands skus, maintenance of the HTS and duty in the brand’s ERP, liaison with USCBP on issues/request, insure brokers are following outlined procedures and support the compliance of all regulations from USCBP and partner government agencies.

• Assign US HTS code to all new SKUs (focus footwear) and maintain HTS in brand ERP. Assign and duty amounts, audit duty payments. Participate in line-review activities with merchant/sourcing team.
• Complete post entry audits, development of SOPs and auditing duty payments.
• Assist in the set-up of all new and reactivated import vendors and factories for the brand.
• Serves as the subject matter expert for all import related inquiries from internal & external customers, third party service providers, including Customs Brokers, US Customs and Border Protection Regulations and Fish & Wildlife.
• Manage First Sale, FTZ, FTAs and duty drawback programs and provide reporting to the team.
• Assist with / oversee export paperwork creation.
• Audit broker and paperwork flow, communicate with USCBP, maintain records in compliance to USCBP regulations
• Maintain vendor manual in conjunction with business partners in Production, Social Compliance, Distribution Center, Inbound Logistics, Operations and Product Compliance.
• Communicate with vendors on requirements.
• Understand duty deferral programs by origin and communicate changes and/or new opportunities to help guide sourcing strategy.
• Run ACE and other reports as needed.
• Support brand level import operations teams when needed for daily activities.
• Find efficiencies and cost saving opportunities in current processes.
• Audit and submit monthly US Customs Broker invoices as well as handle any inaccuracies such as post summary correction.
• Gather information and documentation pertaining to any CF28 and CF29 and respond timely.
• Perform other duties as required

• Minimum 1-3 years Import/Export Customs Brokerage experience preferred
• Experience in application of regulatory requirements, forms, licenses and certifications affecting imported and exported products. Working knowledge/mastery of US Harmonized Tariff Classification and Free Trade Agreements (CAFTA, AGOA)
• Licensed Customs Broker preferred, not required
• Experience with ACE Portal system preferred
• Systems and Tools Acumen: Must be highly proficient in Microsoft Excel and have aptitude to learn technical applications quickly
• Analytic Skills: Ability to think objectively and interpret meaningful themes from quantitative and qualitative data
• Collaboration: Able to build constructive and effective relationships with a broad and diverse group of partners
• Possess strong organizational and time management skills
• Demonstrate strong listening, written and oral communication skills
• As an International Retailer, occasional evening and/or weekend work may be required during periods of high volume

• Travel may be required, based on business needs.
• Adhere to regular in-office presence, including to engage in in-person team interaction, meetings and collaboration. Job duties may be performed effectively using the hybrid work program designated by the company.
• Perform other duties as assigned by supervisor as the company retains the right to change duties to this position.
• Must have authorization to work in the United States

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to safely and successfully perform the essential job functions consistent with the ADA, FMLA and other federal, state and local standards.
• Ability to maintain regular and timely attendance consistent with the ADA, FMLA and other federal, state and local standards.
• Ability to remain in a stationary position for up to 8 hours per day
• Ability to constantly operate a computer, other office equipment and look at a monitor for up to 8 hours per day
• Ability to clearly and accurately communicate and exchange information verbally, in writing, or through other means in person, telephonically, or through virtual communication methods
• Ability to reach at or below shoulder level
• Ability to carry equipment, move boxes/samples, etc.

SPARC Group LLC is an equal opportunity employer. We value a culture of inclusion and diversity within our workforce, and are committed to maintaining a workplace free from prohibited employment conduct, including discrimination or harassment on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, disability, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, domestic partner status, civil partnership, status as a covered veteran, status in the Uniformed Services of the United States, citizenship and any other characteristic protected by law. We are also committed to the full inclusion of qualified individuals in the job application and interview process.

Employees are expected to perform the essential functions of the position satisfactorily. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA), and applicable state disability laws, it is the policy of SPARC to provide a reasonable accommodation when requested by a qualified applicant or employee with a disability unless such accommodation would cause an undue hardship. If a reasonable accommodation is required to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact our Human Resources department.