Trade Compliance Manager

Join Our Management Team: Trade Compliance Manager:

We are seeking a highly skilled Trade Compliance Manager to oversee compliance activities within Mactaggart Scott & Company Limited (MTS). This role will be responsible for ensuring that all trade compliance requirements are met, including management of international shipping procedures, liaison when necessary with freight forwarders and agents, and the recording and archiving of all export and import documentation. The holder of this role will be expected to work independently, using their own initiative with minimum supervision and will report directly into the Commercial Director as part of the Commercial function

About us:

MacTaggart Scott primarily supports the Naval Defence industry, providing complete solutions to customer needs from analysis of initial customer requirements, to design and manufacture, and right through to commissioning and through life support. Established in 1898, we are proud of our history and tradition but believe that sustainable competitive advantage can only be achieved through continuous improvement, investment, and a commitment to business excellence at every level within the company.

What is the job about?

This role ensures full compliance with UK and international trade regulations, managing HMRC authorisations (Inward/Outward Processing, Customs Warehousing, CDS) and export licences. The post-holder oversees import/export documentation, financial processes, and advises on trade compliance during bids, promoting best practices across the business. They develop and implement compliance procedures, monitor regulatory changes, and lead the Trade Compliance team through training and stakeholder engagement. Success is measured by maintaining full compliance and ensuring smooth, cost-effective import/export operations.

Key Responsibilities will include but are not limited to:

• Maintain compliance with HMRC authorisations including Inward/Outward Processing, Customs Warehouse, and Simplified Declaration processes.
• Oversee the Customs Declaration Service (CDS) and EORI data management, coordinating closely with Finance on deferment accounts.
• Manage UK export licences via SPIRE/LITE systems and liaise with the Department for Business and Trade (DBT).
• Ensure all import/export documentation, procedures, and records meet HMRC and export control regulations.
• Monitor and implement trade compliance processes aligned with UK and international legislation.
• Advise and support internal teams with compliance guidance, taxation, and duty implications for bids and projects.
• Lead audits, reporting, and training across the business to drive awareness and best practice.
• Supervise and develop the Trade Compliance Officer to ensure efficient daily operations.

About You

• Strong knowledge of UK and international trade compliance regulations (HMRC, DBT, BIS, DDTC).
• Proven experience managing customs authorisations, export controls, and trade systems.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to develop procedures, train others, and work cross-functionally.
• Proactive and detail-oriented, with strong organisational and problem-solving skills.

Knowledge, Skills and Experience

Essential:

• Bachelor's degree preferred and experience working within previous trade compliance role(s)
• Detailed understanding trade compliance requirements across imports, exports, ITAR/EAR and all licencing matters
• Ability to meet demanding deadlines
• Strong interpersonal skills
• Strong customer service focus
• Leadership, decision making, and communication skills
• High degree of accuracy and good problem solving aptitude
• Effective people management and influencing skills
• High level of experience and understanding of UK import and export controls and necessary working practices
• Good working knowledge of Microsoft Office tools
• Experience of HMRC Customs Warehousing, Inward Processing Relief, Outward processing and Simplified Customs Declaration Process

Desirable:

• HMRC reporting experience
• Experience of UK DBT, SPIRE and LITE working practices
• Good knowledge of US export ITAR/EAR controls, Manufacturing Licencing Agreements (MLAs) and Technical Assistance Agreements (TAAs)
• Experience working in defence, aerospace or other highly regulated industries

Your future at MacTaggart Scott – What we offer

• As part of our Healthy Work-Life Balance employees can choose between a 4- or 5-day working week. Allowing you to fit work around your priorities and personal life, not the other way round.
• We offer flexible working hours between 07:00 and 19:00, and core hours of 09:30 – 15:30.
• Our leave policy brings together leave entitlements which include annual leave, paid parental leave, military reservist leave, plus more.
• We will provide you with a supportive and engaging environment where you can grow your career, with a dedicated Learning and Development team.
• We're committed to your wellbeing with access to our comprehensive online wellbeing program, Employee Assistance Programme, and an onsite nurse to support you when needed.
• Enjoy the convenience of an onsite canteen, free parking, and a secure cycle-to-work scheme to make your daily routine easier.
• We also offer a generous company pension plan, exclusive employee discounts, and free flu vaccinations to help you stay healthy.
• In addition, our comprehensive health & wellbeing programme is here to support you, along with life insurance for peace of mind and sick pay to help you when you need it most.