Global Trade Program Manager - C-TPAT

Job description

The Global Customs Trade Programs & Supply Chain Programs Expert is a strategic program management role responsible for developing, implementing, and continuously improving a portfolio of global trade programs. The core focus spans Supply Chain Security (CTPAT/AEO), Environmental Sustainability, Record Retention and AI Enabled Compliance assurance program — with an open mandate to expand into additional customs trade program domains as the business evolves. The ideal candidate brings a blend of strong program management expertise and deep subject matter knowledge in customs and trade programs expertise. They are a thought leader who can strategize, build governance frameworks, drive programs to completion, and adapt to an ever-changing regulatory landscape — leveraging AI tools and automation to work smarter, all while championing a culture of trade program awareness across the organization. 1. Program Management & Execution • Design and lead end-to-end program management for customs trade program initiatives including Supply Chain Security, Sustainability, Record retention and Compliance assurance programs — with the agility to onboard additional customs programs. • Drive Western Digital to secure and maintain CTPAT Trade Compliance certification; support global sites in securing and/or retaining AEO certifications. • Serve as liaison with internal team members and legal when faced with audits from CBP and other regulatory bodies; • Evaluate and deploy AI-powered tools to streamline trade program workflows — including Supply Chain Security risk assessment, Compliance assurance program and across all managed programs. • Integrate sustainability requirements into supply chain operations, ensuring alignment with internal ESG goals and external regulatory obligations. • Institute robust governance models for all managed programs; participate actively in industry associations to benchmark and enhance program value. 2. Compliance & Risk Management • Conduct regular risk assessments and audits to identify and remediate vulnerabilities across the supply chain trade programs portfolio. • Leverage AI-assisted monitoring tools to continuously scan for regulatory changes, supply chain anomalies, and emerging trade program risks in real time. • Develop and maintain an Internal Control Program to ensure systemic trade program adherence across all program areas. • Maintain readiness for regulatory inquiries, third-party audits, and certification renewals. 3. Strategy & Continuous Improvement • Act as a thought leader — define the strategic roadmap for each trade program, balancing near-term deliverables with long-term scalability. • Identify and implement technology solutions to automate manual processes, reduce cost, and improve program effectiveness. • Champion responsible AI adoption within trade program operations — define guardrails, evaluate vendor AI tools, and ensure AI use aligns with regulatory expectations and internal governance standards. • Partner with IT and data teams to build AI/ML-powered dashboards and analytics that surface trade program trends, predict risk, and support executive decision-making. • Analyze program performance data to surface improvement opportunities; drive structured continuous improvement cycles. • Proactively identify adjacent customs trade program domains (e.g., trade programs, duty management, origin programs) and develop business cases to expand the program portfolio. 4. Training, Awareness & Culture • Design and deliver role-specific training programs for employees, suppliers, and stakeholders across all trade program domains. • Champion a culture of trade program awareness and security awareness throughout the organization. • Develop accessible playbooks, reference materials, and e-learning content to scale trade program knowledge. 5. Cross-Functional & External Collaboration • Partner closely with Logistics, Legal, IT, Finance, and Business Unit teams to embed trade program requirements into business operations seamlessly. • Coordinate with suppliers, freight forwarders, customs brokers, and other external partners to ensure supply chain-wide adherence. • Represent the organization in industry forums, regulatory working groups, and with government agencies. 6. Documentation & Reporting • Maintain comprehensive records of program activities: audits, risk assessments, certifications, and training. • Prepare and submit required regulatory filings and reports to CBP and other relevant authorities. • Provide executive-level reporting on program status, risks, and KPIs. Education • Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, International Business, Business Administration, or a related field. Master's degree preferred. • Certified Licensed Customs Broker (preferred). • Certified Dangerous Goods Professional (DGR). • Additional certifications in trade programs, sustainability, or program management (e.g., PMP) are a plus. Experience • 10+ years of experience managing global supply chain trade programs, including hands-on responsibility for at least two of: Supply Chain Security (CTPAT/AEO), Dangerous Goods (IATA/Hazmat), Supply Chain Sustainability, or customs trade programs. • Demonstrated track record of building programs from the ground up — obtaining certifications, designing governance frameworks, and scaling operations. • Experience working directly with customs authorities (e.g., CBP) and international regulatory bodies. • Experience in technology-intensive supply chains, preferably in the semiconductor, electronics, or manufacturing sector. Core Program Management Skills • Ability to manage a portfolio of concurrent trade programs with competing priorities and stakeholders. • Strong project planning, milestone tracking, risk management, and executive communication skills. • Comfort operating in ambiguous environments — able to define scope, build structure, and execute with limited guidance. • Change management and organizational influence s