Trade Compliance Manager

About the role

Shieldai is seeking a regional expert to lead trade compliance operations across the UK and Europe. You will manage the lifecycle of international trade programs, ensuring all activities align with defense regulations and internal standards while supporting the deployment of autonomous systems.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Serve as the main contact for trade compliance in the UK and oversee regional activities throughout Europe.
• Manage the submission and administration of export authorizations via UK systems such as SPIRE, including SIELs, OIELs, and OGELs.
• Determine classifications for software, hardware, and technical data based on UK Strategic Export Control Lists.
• Advise on European export regulations, specifically regarding intra-EU transfers and member state requirements.
• Collaborate with engineering departments to analyze technical specifications and data flows for accurate licensing.
• Maintain comprehensive, audit-ready records for all licensing and classification activities.
• Oversee operational procedures including restricted party screening, international travel protocols, and visitor management.
• Ensure all export authorizations remain consistent with ECJU and European authority standards.
• Track changes in regional regulatory landscapes to maintain organizational compliance.
• Design and improve internal workflows to increase efficiency in regional licensing and classification.

Requirements

• 5+ years of professional experience in export control, customs, or trade compliance within the defense, aerospace, or advanced tech sectors.
• Proficiency in UK export regulations or US frameworks including EAR and ITAR.
• Experience coordinating with regulatory agencies like the UK Export Control Joint Unit, US Commerce or State Departments, or EU member state authorities.
• Knowledge of jurisdiction determination, export classification methodologies, and licensing processes.
• Understanding of cross-border transfer rules within the European region.
• Ability to work with technical teams to translate engineering data into compliant documentation.
• Bachelor degree in Business, Law, International Trade, Supply Chain Management, or a related discipline.
• Strong analytical and stakeholder management abilities.

Nice to have

• Prior experience working directly with UK government departments.
• Background in supporting autonomous systems, dual-use items, or defense-related programs.
• Experience managing compliance across multiple international jurisdictions such as APJ, US, or EU.
• Professional certifications like Certified Customs Specialist or Certified Export Specialist.

Skills & tools

• UK Export Control Joint Unit (ECJU) systems
• SPIRE
• SIELs, OIELs, and OGELs
• ITAR and EAR frameworks
• Export classification methodologies

Practical notes

Total rewards packages are tailored to your specific country office location. Please contact a talent acquisition partner for details regarding compensation and benefits.