Role Overview for Head of Customs & Tariff Strategy with a PE-Backed Industrial Distributor– Miami, FL
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a rapidly expanding, private equity-backed industrial distributor in their search for a pioneering Head of Customs & Tariff Strategy. Based in the vibrant international trade hub of Miami, FL, this is a newly created, high-impact executive role designed for a strategic leader who can build and scale a world-class global trade compliance function from the ground up. Our client is a market leader undergoing significant transformation and growth, driven by strategic acquisitions and organic expansion. In this dynamic environment, the effective management of customs duties, tariffs, and trade regulations is not just a compliance necessity—it’s a critical lever for competitive advantage and bottom-line performance.
As the Head of Customs & Tariff Strategy, you will be the company’s foremost expert on all matters related to international trade. You will report directly to the senior executive team and be responsible for architecting and implementing a comprehensive strategy that minimizes duty exposure, ensures flawless compliance, and supports the company’s aggressive global sourcing and sales initiatives. This is a hands-on leadership role that requires a unique blend of deep technical expertise in customs law, a strategic commercial mindset, and the ability to influence and collaborate across all levels of a fast-paced organization. You will be tasked with evaluating current processes, identifying significant cost-saving opportunities, mitigating risk, and building the infrastructure, team, and technology stack necessary to support a multi-billion-dollar global enterprise. This position offers a unique opportunity to make a substantial and measurable impact on the company’s profitability and long-term success.
Key Responsibilities of Head of Customs & Tariff Strategy with a PE-Backed Industrial Distributor– Miami, FL
Strategic Planning & Execution
Develop, articulate, and execute a forward-thinking global customs and tariff strategy that aligns with the company’s financial goals and supply chain objectives. Proactively identify and capitalize on opportunities for duty mitigation through tariff engineering, free trade agreements (FTAs), duty drawback programs, and other advanced strategies.
Compliance & Governance
Establish and maintain a robust global trade compliance program, ensuring full adherence to all U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations and the import/export laws of other relevant jurisdictions. Serve as the primary point of contact for all customs-related inquiries and audits.
Tariff Classification Leadership
Oversee the entire product classification process, ensuring all imported and exported goods are accurately assigned HTS (Harmonized Tariff Schedule) codes. Develop and maintain a centralized classification database and provide expert guidance to engineering, procurement, and product teams. A deep understanding of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States is paramount.
Valuation & Country of Origin Management
Implement and manage rigorous processes for determining customs valuation, including the proper treatment of assists, royalties, and other additions to the price paid or payable. Oversee country of origin determination, marking, and certification to ensure compliance and maximize FTA benefits.
Risk Assessment & Mitigation
Proactively identify, assess, and mitigate trade compliance risks across the global supply chain. Stay ahead of geopolitical shifts, trade wars, and regulatory changes, advising senior leadership on potential impacts and developing contingency plans.
Process Optimization & Technology Implementation
Design and implement scalable processes and internal controls to streamline customs operations. Lead the selection and implementation of Global Trade Management (GTM) software and other technologies to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and visibility.
Team Leadership & Development
Recruit, train, and mentor a high-performing customs compliance team. Foster a culture of compliance, continuous improvement, and strategic partnership within the organization.
Stakeholder Collaboration
Act as a strategic business partner to internal stakeholders, including Supply Chain, Procurement, Finance, Legal, and Sales. Provide expert counsel on the customs and tariff implications of new sourcing strategies, product launches, and market expansions.
Customs Broker & Freight Forwarder Management
Manage relationships with customs brokers, freight forwarders, and other third-party logistics providers. Establish clear KPIs, conduct regular performance reviews, and ensure partners are meeting the company’s compliance and service standards.
Financial Reporting & Analytics
Develop and maintain metrics to track and report on duty spend, cost savings, compliance performance, and risk exposure. Provide regular, insightful updates to the executive team and private equity sponsors.
Requirements for the Head of Customs & Tariff Strategy with a PE-Backed Industrial Distributor– Miami, FL
Educational Background
Bachelor’s degree in International Business, Supply Chain Management, Finance, Law, or a related field is required. A Master’s degree (MBA) or Juris Doctor (JD) is highly preferred.
Professional Certification
A valid U.S. Customs Broker License (LCB) is mandatory for this position.
Experience
A minimum of 12-15 years of progressive experience in global trade compliance, customs, and tariff strategy. At least 5 years in a leadership role with demonstrated experience building and managing a team.
Industry Expertise
Experience within an industrial manufacturing, distribution, or a related sector with a complex global supply chain is strongly preferred. Prior experience in a private equity-backed environment is a significant advantage.
Technical Proficiency
Expert-level knowledge of U.S. customs regulations, including HTS classification, customs valuation, country of origin, free trade agreements, and special trade programs.
Systems Knowledge
Proven experience with Global Trade Management (GTM) systems and ERP platforms (e.g., SAP, Oracle). Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel for data analysis and reporting.
Strategic Acumen
Demonstrated ability to think strategically and translate complex trade regulations into actionable business initiatives that drive cost savings and mitigate risk.
Leadership & Communication
Exceptional leadership and team-building skills. Must possess executive presence and superior written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex concepts to a non-technical audience and influence senior-level decision-making.
Analytical Skills
Strong quantitative and analytical skills, with a data-driven approach to problem-solving and decision-making.
Project Management
Proven ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously in a fast-paced, results-oriented environment.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top-tier talent by offering a highly competitive and comprehensive compensation package. This includes:
Competitive Executive Compensation
A lucrative base salary complemented by a significant annual performance-based bonus.
Equity Participation
A meaningful equity stake in the company, providing the opportunity to share directly in the value created through successful growth.
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
Premium medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your dependents, along with wellness programs and resources.
Retirement Savings
A robust 401(k) plan with a generous company match to help you build a secure financial future.
Generous Paid Time Off
A competitive paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick days, and paid company holidays, to support a healthy work-life balance.
Professional Development
Significant investment in your professional growth, including support for attending industry conferences, obtaining further certifications, and continuous learning opportunities.
Relocation Assistance
A comprehensive relocation package is available for exceptional candidates moving to the Miami area.
How to Apply
This is a retained search exclusively managed by JRG Partners. If you are a visionary trade compliance leader with a proven track record of creating value and driving strategy, we invite you to apply for this exceptional opportunity. To be considered, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and strategic accomplishments. JRG Partners is a leader in executive recruitment for high-growth companies. Learn more about our expertise in Global Trade Compliance & Customs and submit your application today to connect with one of our dedicated recruiters. We look forward to reviewing your qualifications.
