Director Customs - Robinson Fresh
The Director of Global Trade Compliance & Logistics for the Robinson Fresh division is a senior leader responsible for ensuring the company’s compliance and risk management as the legal Importer of Record and Exporter of Record. Unlike a service-provider oriented Director of Customs role that focuses on managing brokerage services and client-facing growth initiatives, this position holds direct decision-making authority for the organization’s own global trade operations and regulatory compliance.
As the Director, you will lead enterprise-wide strategies, processes, and systems for international customs compliance, import/export operations, tariff & trade remedy management, global logistics coordination, marine cargo insurance programs, and cargo claims. Your primary objective is to protect the business by ensuring full compliance with all relevant regulations while optimizing supply chain efficiency and mitigating trade-related risks.
You will be part of the Robinson Fresh global leadership team and collaborate extensively across functions (e.g. Supply Chain, Sourcing, Transportation, Legal, Finance, Risk Management) to integrate compliance into all aspects of international operations.
Responsibilities:
Global Customs & Trade ComplianceOversee all import and export compliance activities, ensuring adherence to U.S. and international customs regulations, trade agreements, and partner government agency requirements (e.g., FDA, USDA)
Ensure accurate classification, valuation, and country-of-origin determinations for all goods
Establish processes to ensure timely and compliant customs clearance across all global shipments
Tariff & Trade Remedies ManagementMonitor and interpret changes in tariffs, duties, and global trade regulations
Lead tariff strategy, including application of Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) classifications
Implement duty optimization strategies such as free trade agreements, duty drawback, and tariff mitigation programs while maintaining compliance
Global Logistics & Operational OversightLead the integration of compliance requirements into global logistics operations across ocean, air, and ground transportation
Partner with internal and external stakeholders to ensure efficient and compliant cross-border movement of goods
Oversee documentation, filings, and security requirements (e.g., Importer Security Filings) to ensure timely cargo clearance
Marine Cargo Insurance & ClaimsManage the company’s marine cargo insurance program to ensure appropriate coverage for international shipments
Oversee cargo loss and damage claims, coordinating with carriers and insurers to drive timely resolution and recovery
Identify trends and implement improvements to minimize risk exposure
Regulatory Risk & Compliance Program LeadershipDevelop, implement, and enforce global trade compliance policies, procedures, and training programs
Establish monitoring and auditing mechanisms to ensure compliance and identify risks
Lead continuous improvement initiatives to strengthen compliance frameworks and mitigate exposure to penalties or delays
Cross-Functional Collaboration & External EngagementPartner with key internal functions (Supply Chain, Sourcing, Legal, Finance, Tax, Audit, IT) to embed compliance into business processes
Select, onboard, and manage third-party providers including freight forwarders and customs brokers
Serve as the primary liaison with customs authorities and regulatory agencies, managing escalations and building strong external relationships
Represent the organization in industry forums and stay ahead of evolving global trade regulations
Regulatory Strategy & AdvisoryProvide strategic guidance to senior leadership on global trade regulations, tariff changes, and compliance risks
Translate regulatory changes into actionable business strategies that balance compliance with operational efficiency and growth
Trade Compliance Systems & DataOversee trade compliance systems, data, and reporting to ensure visibility into compliance performance
Leverage analytics to track key metrics (e.g., entry accuracy, duty spend, clearance timelines) and identify improvement opportunities
Leadership & Talent DevelopmentLead, develop, and mentor a team of compliance professionals
Establish clear performance expectations and support career development and succession planning
Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement across global teams
Required Qualifications:
Certifications (Required): Licensed Customs Broker (LCB)
Associate or bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university
Minimum 10 years Customs, Import/export compliance, global forwarding, and/or marine cargo insurance experience
Minimum 4 years of experience leading and managing teams
Preferred Qualifications:
Certified Customs Specialist (CCS) or equivalent international trade certification
Advanced expertise in duty optimization, trade remedies, and tariff strategy
Experience managing global freight forwarders, customs brokers, and external partners
Strong project management experience with a track record of improving processes, systems, and compliance outcomes
Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to influence senior stakeholders
High attention to detail with strong data analysis and reporting capabilities
Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced global environment
Proficiency with trade compliance systems and Microsoft Office tools
Knowledge of Harmonized Tariff Schedule and global supply chain operations
We will review applications for this role on an ongoing basis and encourage all interested candidates to apply at their earliest convenience.
Compensation Range
$113,000.00 - $254,200.00
The base pay range displayed on each job posting reflects the minimum and maximum base pay for the position across all U.S. locations. Your individual base pay within this range is determined by work location, which takes into account geographic cost of labor, and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Compensation details listed in this posting reflect the base pay only and do not include additional variable compensation.
Questioning if you meet the mark? Studies have shown that some individuals may be less likely to apply unless they match the job description exactly. Here at C.H. Robinson, we’re building an inclusive workplace where all employees feel they belong. If this position excites you, we welcome you to apply whether you check all the preferred qualifications or just a few. You may just be our next great fit!
Equal Opportunity
C.H. Robinson is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to a workplace and performance culture that reflects the strengths of our worldwide marketplace. We value unique experiences and diverse backgrounds of our people within our company, our business relationships, and our communities. We’re committed to providing an inclusive environment, free from harassment and discrimination, where all employees feel welcomed, valued and respected.
EOE\Disabled\Veteran
Benefits
Your Health, Wealth and Self
Your total wellbeing is the foundation of our business, and our benefits support your financial, family and personal goals. We provide the top-tier benefits that matter to you most, including:
Three medical plans which include
Prescription drug coverage
Enhanced Fertility benefits
Flexible Spending Accounts
Health Savings Account (including employer contribution)
Dental and Vision
Basic and Supplemental Life Insurance
Short-Term and Long-Term Disability
Paid observed holidays
2 paid floating holidays for U.S. hourly employees
Flexible Time Off (FTO) offered to U.S. salaried employees — no accruals and no caps. Paid Time Off (PTO) offered to all other employees in the U.S. and Canada
Paid parental leave
Paid time off to volunteer in your community
Charitable Giving Match Program
401(k) with 6% company matching
Employee Stock Purchase Plan
Plus a broad range of career development, networking, and team-building opportunities
Learn more about our benefit offerings on our BENEFITS & WELLBEING page
As the Director, you will lead enterprise-wide strategies, processes, and systems for international customs compliance, import/export operations, tariff & trade remedy management, global logistics coordination, marine cargo insurance programs, and cargo claims. Your primary objective is to protect the business by ensuring full compliance with all relevant regulations while optimizing supply chain efficiency and mitigating trade-related risks.
You will be part of the Robinson Fresh global leadership team and collaborate extensively across functions (e.g. Supply Chain, Sourcing, Transportation, Legal, Finance, Risk Management) to integrate compliance into all aspects of international operations.
Responsibilities:
Global Customs & Trade ComplianceOversee all import and export compliance activities, ensuring adherence to U.S. and international customs regulations, trade agreements, and partner government agency requirements (e.g., FDA, USDA)
Ensure accurate classification, valuation, and country-of-origin determinations for all goods
Establish processes to ensure timely and compliant customs clearance across all global shipments
Tariff & Trade Remedies ManagementMonitor and interpret changes in tariffs, duties, and global trade regulations
Lead tariff strategy, including application of Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) classifications
Implement duty optimization strategies such as free trade agreements, duty drawback, and tariff mitigation programs while maintaining compliance
Global Logistics & Operational OversightLead the integration of compliance requirements into global logistics operations across ocean, air, and ground transportation
Partner with internal and external stakeholders to ensure efficient and compliant cross-border movement of goods
Oversee documentation, filings, and security requirements (e.g., Importer Security Filings) to ensure timely cargo clearance
Marine Cargo Insurance & ClaimsManage the company’s marine cargo insurance program to ensure appropriate coverage for international shipments
Oversee cargo loss and damage claims, coordinating with carriers and insurers to drive timely resolution and recovery
Identify trends and implement improvements to minimize risk exposure
Regulatory Risk & Compliance Program LeadershipDevelop, implement, and enforce global trade compliance policies, procedures, and training programs
Establish monitoring and auditing mechanisms to ensure compliance and identify risks
Lead continuous improvement initiatives to strengthen compliance frameworks and mitigate exposure to penalties or delays
Cross-Functional Collaboration & External EngagementPartner with key internal functions (Supply Chain, Sourcing, Legal, Finance, Tax, Audit, IT) to embed compliance into business processes
Select, onboard, and manage third-party providers including freight forwarders and customs brokers
Serve as the primary liaison with customs authorities and regulatory agencies, managing escalations and building strong external relationships
Represent the organization in industry forums and stay ahead of evolving global trade regulations
Regulatory Strategy & AdvisoryProvide strategic guidance to senior leadership on global trade regulations, tariff changes, and compliance risks
Translate regulatory changes into actionable business strategies that balance compliance with operational efficiency and growth
Trade Compliance Systems & DataOversee trade compliance systems, data, and reporting to ensure visibility into compliance performance
Leverage analytics to track key metrics (e.g., entry accuracy, duty spend, clearance timelines) and identify improvement opportunities
Leadership & Talent DevelopmentLead, develop, and mentor a team of compliance professionals
Establish clear performance expectations and support career development and succession planning
Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement across global teams
Required Qualifications:
Certifications (Required): Licensed Customs Broker (LCB)
Associate or bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university
Minimum 10 years Customs, Import/export compliance, global forwarding, and/or marine cargo insurance experience
Minimum 4 years of experience leading and managing teams
Preferred Qualifications:
Certified Customs Specialist (CCS) or equivalent international trade certification
Advanced expertise in duty optimization, trade remedies, and tariff strategy
Experience managing global freight forwarders, customs brokers, and external partners
Strong project management experience with a track record of improving processes, systems, and compliance outcomes
Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to influence senior stakeholders
High attention to detail with strong data analysis and reporting capabilities
Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced global environment
Proficiency with trade compliance systems and Microsoft Office tools
Knowledge of Harmonized Tariff Schedule and global supply chain operations
We will review applications for this role on an ongoing basis and encourage all interested candidates to apply at their earliest convenience.
Compensation Range
$113,000.00 - $254,200.00
The base pay range displayed on each job posting reflects the minimum and maximum base pay for the position across all U.S. locations. Your individual base pay within this range is determined by work location, which takes into account geographic cost of labor, and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Compensation details listed in this posting reflect the base pay only and do not include additional variable compensation.
Questioning if you meet the mark? Studies have shown that some individuals may be less likely to apply unless they match the job description exactly. Here at C.H. Robinson, we’re building an inclusive workplace where all employees feel they belong. If this position excites you, we welcome you to apply whether you check all the preferred qualifications or just a few. You may just be our next great fit!
Equal Opportunity
C.H. Robinson is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to a workplace and performance culture that reflects the strengths of our worldwide marketplace. We value unique experiences and diverse backgrounds of our people within our company, our business relationships, and our communities. We’re committed to providing an inclusive environment, free from harassment and discrimination, where all employees feel welcomed, valued and respected.
EOE\Disabled\Veteran
Benefits
Your Health, Wealth and Self
Your total wellbeing is the foundation of our business, and our benefits support your financial, family and personal goals. We provide the top-tier benefits that matter to you most, including:
Three medical plans which include
Prescription drug coverage
Enhanced Fertility benefits
Flexible Spending Accounts
Health Savings Account (including employer contribution)
Dental and Vision
Basic and Supplemental Life Insurance
Short-Term and Long-Term Disability
Paid observed holidays
2 paid floating holidays for U.S. hourly employees
Flexible Time Off (FTO) offered to U.S. salaried employees — no accruals and no caps. Paid Time Off (PTO) offered to all other employees in the U.S. and Canada
Paid parental leave
Paid time off to volunteer in your community
Charitable Giving Match Program
401(k) with 6% company matching
Employee Stock Purchase Plan
Plus a broad range of career development, networking, and team-building opportunities
Learn more about our benefit offerings on our BENEFITS & WELLBEING page