Manager, Trade Compliance

About Otto Aviation

OTTO is developing the world’s first fifth-generation business jet, designed for sustainability through the innovative use of advanced super-laminar aerodynamics and high-precision, net-shaped composites. Flight tests of our technology demonstrator validate a dramatic reduction in fuel burn and allow a sizeable improvement in cabin comfort. Otto Aviation is designing world-class aircraft from first principles physics and delivering ground-breaking aircraft and economic performance.

Role Overview

The Senior Trade Compliance Specialist is a key strategic leader responsible for overseeing the organization's global trade compliance strategy, ensuring adherence to all international trade laws and regulations. This role provides leadership in managing compliance risks, optimizing import/export processes, and driving organizational alignment with regulatory requirements. The position acts as the subject matter expert (SME) for trade compliance, mentoring teams and collaborating with senior stakeholders to support global operations effectively. 

Responsibilities 

Regulatory Compliance Leadership 

• Develop, implement, and monitor comprehensive global trade compliance programs in line with international laws, including ITAR, EAR, OFAC, and other country-specific regulations. 

• Serve as the primary liaison with government agencies, such as customs authorities and regulatory bodies, to address compliance matters. 

• Conduct risk assessments and implement controls to mitigate compliance risks across global operations. 

Strategic Oversight and Policy Development 

• Design and enforce company-wide trade compliance policies, ensuring they align with corporate objectives and international trade laws. 

• Provide strategic guidance on customs and trade requirements for new markets, product lines, and acquisitions. 

• Lead internal and external audits, addressing findings and implementing corrective actions where necessary. 

Leadership and Training 

• Mentor and guide Departments to ensure consistent application of trade compliance standards. 

• Develop and deliver advanced training programs for employees and executives to enhance awareness of trade compliance responsibilities. 

• Act as an advisor to the executive team on trade compliance risks and opportunities. 

Process Optimization and Systems Management 

• Oversee the management and optimization of import/export processes, including customs clearance, tariff classifications, and free trade agreement utilization. 

• Evaluate and implement trade compliance software and tools to enhance efficiency and ensure regulatory compliance. 

• Identify and drive cost-saving opportunities in global trade operations, including duty minimization and tariff mitigation strategies. 

Stakeholder Collaboration 

• Partner with company leadership to align trade compliance initiatives with organizational goals. 

• Represent the company in trade compliance forums and industry groups to stay informed on regulatory changes and best practices. 

Monitoring and Reporting 

• Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for trade compliance programs. 

• Prepare and present detailed reports on compliance performance and risk mitigation efforts to senior leadership. 

Education and Experience 

• Bachelor’s degree in International Business, Supply Chain Management, Law, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred). 

• Certified Customs Specialist (CCS), Certified Export Compliance Officer (CECO), or equivalent certifications highly preferred. 

• 10+ years of experience in global trade compliance, including leadership roles in import/export operations or regulatory compliance. 

• Expertise in managing complex international trade operations across multiple jurisdictions. 

• Deep knowledge of international trade regulations, free trade agreements, and customs processes. 

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a focus on risk mitigation. 

• Proficiency in trade compliance software, ERP systems, and data analysis tools. 

• Exceptional leadership and communication skills, with experience influencing at all organizational levels. 

Interpersonal Skills 

• Self-Starter: ability to independently identify work that needs to be completed or issues that need to be addressed, elevate as appropriate, and seek solutions 

• Active Listening: gain insight and truly understand all project stakeholders. 

• Critical Thinking: make prompt, informed and value-based decisions for the project. 

• Organization: Focus on agenda, schedules, frameworks, consistent methodologies, and documentation to deliver an exceptional work product 

• Problem Solving: Assess issues from different vantage points and formulate the best solution in addressing specific challenges. 

• Teamwork and Team Building: Establish a collaborative culture where people with unique personalities and skills happily work together and accountable to shared goal. 

• Strong Business Communication: Use the right language, tone and storytelling techniques when communicating, describing, or explaining issues over email, chat, reports, presentations and other forms and channels of communication; adapt communication based on audience 

Physical Requirements 

• Must be able to stand on feet and walk around for extended periods of time. 
• Must be able to sit at desk for prolonged periods of time and work on computer. 
• Must be able to lift up to 20 pounds. 

Otto Aviation is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.”