Import Export, Customs & Trade Compliance Manager – Japan

About the role

The Import Export, Customs and Trade Compliance Manager for Japan will oversee all import‑export, customs and trade compliance activities, acting as the primary liaison between BASF Japan, global hubs and external service providers. The role ensures that all logistics operations meet regional and global performance standards while maintaining strict regulatory compliance.

Key responsibilities

• Manage import‑export, customs and trade compliance for Japan in coordination with global and regional supply chain teams.
• Serve as the key contact for customers, service providers and internal stakeholders on compliance matters.
• Lead performance monitoring and development of logistics service providers (forwarders, customs brokers, carriers) in Japan.
• Drive risk management activities, including access management, data protection, business continuity and periodic risk reviews.
• Participate in global and regional compliance initiatives, projects and community forums.
• Establish, document and enforce supply chain, import‑export and customs processes in line with global policies.
• Identify and implement continuous‑improvement measures, focusing on automation and digitalisation.

Required profile

• Proven experience in import‑export, customs and trade compliance within a multinational environment.
• Strong analytical mindset with the ability to monitor performance metrics and drive improvements.
• Excellent stakeholder management skills across internal business units and external service providers.
• Solid understanding of risk management, data protection and business continuity principles.

Required skills

• Customs compliance knowledge
• Import‑export operations expertise
• Logistics service provider management
• Risk management and data protection awareness