Freelance Trade Operations Lead (ZZP)

• Please privide a motivation letter and CV in English

• Motivation letter regarding job requirements is mandatory

  
  

Job description

Step into a highly specialized, strategic role at Lululemon Athletica. You take ownership of complex customs compliance and international trade operations across the European distribution network, safeguarding operational continuity and mitigating risk within a highly regulated bonded warehouse environment.

The NL DC of Lululemon Athletica serves as a strategically critical hub demanding seasoned customs and trade expertise. Without dedicated oversight, the organization faces compliance risks, severe shipment delays, and unnecessary duty exposure. Your mandate is to act as the primary control point for all customs activities, managing the seamless movement of bonded and non-bonded inventory inside and outside the EU. You orchestrate the strategic relationship with customs brokers, specifically Arvato, ensuring the flawless execution of import and export declarations, transit requirements, and cross-border supply chain operations. 

• Direct the strategic and daily operations with Arvato to ensure 100% compliant execution of all customs broker activities and entry processes.

• Optimize customs valuation, tariff classification, and country of origin determinations to minimize costs and maximize Free Trade Agreement programs.

• Secure full compliance across the European distribution network by conducting rigorous transactional monitoring and internal audits.

• Resolve complex entry exceptions, customs delays, and documentation discrepancies rapidly to maintain uninterrupted product flow.

• Drive structural process improvements, automating manual trade operations and aligning with cross-functional teams to optimize upstream logistics.

You are successful in this interim assignment if you bring robust, senior-level expertise in customs compliance, international trade operations, and bonded warehouse management. You navigate complex regulatory frameworks effortlessly and immediately grasp the operational implications of moving goods across multiple jurisdictions. As a seasoned interim professional, you independently oversee large-scale broker performances and drive continuous improvements without requiring ramp-up time.

Job requirements

• 5+ years of strategic experience in EU customs operations and international supply chain management.

• Deep, hands-on knowledge of bonded warehouse operations, EU transit requirements, import/export controls, and customs special procedures.

• Proven track record in managing broker performance and compliance, preferably within the apparel or textile industry.

• High proficiency in utilizing WMS, CMS, and global trade management platforms (SAP/SAP GTS experience is highly advantageous).

• Fully fluent in English (written and verbal) and eligible to work in the EU.