Customs Team Lead

About the Role

At Maersk, we are transforming global logistics through innovation, digitalization, and operational excellence., you will play a key role in ensuring compliant and efficient

As a Customs Team Lead, you will ensure the legally compliant, efficient, and timely execution of all customs and value-added services (VAS) processes within international trade operations. You will lead and develop the Customs & VAS team, act as a senior subject matter expert, and serve as a trusted advisor to internal and external stakeholders.

You will also drive continuous improvement, standardization, and digitalization of customs and value-added service workflows, supporting our ambition to simplify global trade and deliver best-in-class service to our customers.

Key Responsibilities

🚢 Customs Operations & Compliance

• Ensure accurate and timely processing of import and export declarations via ATLAS
• Oversee tariff classification and customs documentation (e.g., origin certificates, supplier declarations)
• Ensure full compliance with customs regulations and internal policies
• Act as escalation point for complex or sensitive cases

👥 Team Leadership

• Lead, coach, and develop a team of customs specialists
• Drive a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous learning
• Manage workload planning, prioritization, and performance development

🤝 Stakeholder & Advisory Role

• Advise internal stakeholders on customs and trade compliance topics
• Act as key contact for customs authorities and external partners
• Represent the function in audits, inspections, and cross-functional initiatives

⚙️ Process Improvement & Digitalization

• Identify and implement improvements to customs processes and workflows
• Drive automation and digital solutions to enhance efficiency and accuracy
• Support the rollout of new systems and regulatory changes

📚 Knowledge & Capability Building

• Maintain clear SOPs and process documentation
• Foster knowledge sharing and continuous upskilling within the team

What We’re Looking For

• Completed vocational training in freight forwarding, logistics, foreign trade, or a related field
• Advanced qualification as a Customs Specialist (e.g., Zollfachwirt/in) or a comparable certification is preferred
• Minimum of 10 years of professional experience in customs operations and/or value-added services
• At least 5 years of tenure within the company
• In-depth knowledge of customs and foreign trade regulations (UCC, AWG, AWV)
• Strong hands-on experience with ATLAS and other customs-related IT systems
• Proven track record in a leadership, senior, or coordination role
• Very good command of German and English, both written and spoken
• Strong analytical skills, a structured approach to work, and a high level of ownership.

Maersk is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace, and we embrace different styles of thinking. Maersk is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applicants without regard to race, colour, gender, sex, age, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, marital status, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy or parental leave, veteran status, gender identity, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. We will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with all legal requirements.

We are happy to support your need for any adjustments during the application and hiring process. If you need special assistance or an accommodation to use our website, apply for a position, or to perform a job, please contact us by emailing accommodationrequests@maersk.com.