Import and Export Compliance Specialist
York, North Yorkshire YO1 (on‑site, hybrid after probation)
Hours: Full‑time, 37.5 hours per week
Salary: £40,527 basic – £43,700 per annum including annual 8% bonus
The Opportunity
Hawk 3 Talent Solutions has an exciting opportunity for an Import and Export Compliance Specialist to join a growing organisation within the defence manufacturing sector based in York, North Yorkshire. This newly created role was developed as a result of business growth, bringing together responsibilities that were previously shared across multiple teams.
This position plays a key role in developing and managing import and export compliance activities, ensuring adherence to UK and international trade regulations and supporting business operations end‑to‑end from sales through to dispatch.
Working Pattern
Flexible start and finish times between 7:00 am–9:00 am and 3:00 pm–5:00 pm.
On‑site role during the initial 6‑month probation due to training and relationship‑building requirements.
Hybrid working available post‑probation.
The hiring manager is based in the United States, so applicants must be comfortable working independently and collaborating across UK and US time zones.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop, implement, and maintain import/export systems and processes to meet regulatory and business requirements.
- Manage export licences, including Standard and Open General (OGEL) licences, covering military and dual‑use technologies.
- Oversee import and export documentation, including customs declarations, bills of lading, and licences.
- Coordinate with internal teams such as Sales, Engineering, Production, Purchasing, Logistics and Finance.
- Work closely with suppliers, freight forwarders, brokers, customs officials and regulatory bodies.
- Complete internal and external audits, HMRC compliance reporting and maintain compliance registers.
- Classify products, research regulatory requirements and support shipment clearance activities.
- Maintain and manage compliance systems and escalation processes.
- Provide compliance training and guidance to employees.
- Keep up to date with international trade regulations and complete ongoing CPD.
About You
Essential
- Experience in a similar compliance or import/export role.
- Strong knowledge of UK legal and regulatory requirements, including export controls, REACH and RoHS.
- Experience conducting audits, managing documentation, data analysis and report writing.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively across functions while managing priorities independently.
Desirable
- Experience within a manufacturing or defence‑related environment.
- Familiarity with ERP systems.
- Relevant degree or compliance‑related certification.
Security & Eligibility Requirements
- Be a UK or NATO citizen with the right to work in the UK.
- Be comfortable working within the defence industry.
- Be willing to sign the Official Secrets Act.
- Successfully complete BPSS clearance.
Benefits
- Competitive salary of £40,527.
- 8% bonus potential.
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP).
- Free on‑site parking.
- Pension scheme: Employee 5%, Employer 3%.
- Company events.
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