Import & Export Advisor

We are looking for an enthusiastic and motivated individual for the position of Import and Export Advisor. The role sits within the Import Export Hub which supports University of Cambridge Departments to follow best practice with international movements of physical goods, improving import & export compliance, managing tax liabilities, and assisting with customs clearance instructions.

The University has approximately 180 Departments, many of which have a strong focus on scientific research which makes it a dynamic environment to work in. The University imports and exports a wide range of goods from almost all sections of the Tariff system ranging from biological substances, to x-ray machines to antiques. 

You will work closely with the University Tax team, as well as collaborating with the Health & Safety office and the Research Safety Office (RSO), the Import Export Hub brings together specialist expertise to help Departments navigate the complexities that comes with importing such an array of goods. 

The Role 

This role provides technical advice and practical support on complex import & export issues to colleagues across the University so that the University can comply with its import & export obligations. Within the bounds of the University's Tax Strategy, the role helps to ensure that transactions are structured to maximise the University's funds for deployment into its primary purpose activities. This role directly supports the Import & Export Manager in achieving compliance and funding maximisation.

You will act as a primary contact for global colleagues, freight forwarders, customs agents, and suppliers, providing support in all matters relating to end-to-end operational activities of Customs import/export compliance including but not limited to:

• Providing support and guidance to Departments to ensure consistent, appropriate and widest use of import reliefs and customs procedures
• Conducting Customs import and export clearance activities
• Collecting, auditing, and remediating technical Customs documentation and HMRC data. Where necessary, work with the customs agents to correct errors
• Developing relationships with customs agents, freight forwarders, customs authorities, and internal stakeholders.

Your Skills

• Relevant degree level qualification. A professional customs related qualification would be beneficial
• Proficiency in imports/export procedures, tariffs, and classifications is essential
• Experience in liaising with government authorities and customs agencies
• Awareness of UK export control requirements and sanction restrictions
• Experience using Outward Processing, Returned Goods Relief and Temporary Admission is desirable
• Experience working in the Higher Education/charity or biotechnology sector is desirable
• Good organisational skills with a high level of accuracy and attention to detail
• Ability to problem solve
• Strong Microsoft Office skills

Benefits

The University offers an excellent benefit package including:

• 36 days annual leave, inclusive of Bank Holidays
• Defined benefits pension schemes
• Flexible working options
• Family-friendly initiatives
• Career development opportunities
• Support for health & mental wellbeing

Location

The University is supportive of hybrid working, where some work is undertaken on University premises and some in a remote working environment. The aim of our approach is to enable as many staff as possible to work in a hybrid way if they wish and where their role allows. This arrangement is subject to change and will not form a part of the contractual terms of the role. 

Some travel to similar sites may be required, estimated to be 5% of the time.

Funding for this post is available on a permanent basis.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

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