Sr. Director, Global Trade Compliance (UK)

Senior Director

, Global Trade Compliance (UK)

Life Unlimited.

At Smith+Nephew, we design and manufacture technology that takes the limits off living.

Make Compliance a Competitive Advantage

At the intersection of global trade, geopolitics, and business growth, this role gives you the opportunity to

shape and lead the Trade Compliance agenda

at a leading FTSE100 medical device organisation.

We are seeking a

senior strategic Trade Compliance leader

to own and drive end‑to‑end global trade compliance strategy enabling compliant, resilient, and efficient cross‑border operations that support business growth, patient access, and innovation.

This is not a “check‑the‑box” compliance role. It is a

visible leadership position

, partnering closely with Supply Chain, Manufacturing, Commercial, Legal, Finance, Digital and External Authorities to turn regulatory complexity into operational excellence.

Your Impact

As

Senior Director, Global Trade Compliance

, you will:

Set and execute global Trade Compliance strategy

, evolving the Global Trade Compliance road map, global standards and horizon scanning within a complex regulatory landscape

Act as a

trusted advisor to senior leadership

on trade risk, regulatory change, and geopolitical impacts

Ensure robust compliance with

import, export, customs, sanctions, and preferential trade programs

across diverse markets

Drive

simplification, standardisation, and digitalisation

of trade compliance processes

Strengthen governance, controls, and risk management while enabling speed‑to‑market and supply continuity

Represent the organisation with

Customs Authorities, Government Agencies, and external partners

across the regions

Manage the Global Trade Compliance team, including developing centres of excellence for customs activities, export controls and global training and education.

What You Will Lead

Global Compliance Framework

Implement and continuously improve global trade compliance policies, procedures, and controls

Oversee key pillars such as HS classification, country of origin, valuation, denied party screening, and broker governance

Risk, Controls & Audits

Lead compliance risk assessments, internal reviews, and regulatory audits

Proactively identify gaps and execute remediation plans

Strategic Enablement

Support complex supply chain initiatives, new market entries, product launches, and network transformations

Drive alignment with global digital initiatives (e.g. ERP / customs systems)

Leadership & Influence

Lead, coach, and develop the Global  Trade Compliance team and subject‑matter experts

Build strong cross‑functional partnerships across Operations, Legal, Finance, and Commercial teams

What We’re Looking For

You are a

seasoned trade compliance leader

who combines deep technical expertise with strong business acumen and executive presence.

You bring:

10+ years experience in

global trade compliance

within a multinational environment (MedTech, Life Sciences, Manufacturing or complex regulated industries preferred)

Strong knowledge of

global

customs, import/export controls, sanctions, FTAs, and global trade regulations

Proven ability to operate at

senior leadership level

, influencing without authority

Experience leading

global compliance programs

and managing regulatory risk at scale

A pragmatic, solution‑oriented mindset with the confidence to navigate ambiguity and change

Strong communication skills and the ability to engage regulators, external partners, and internal executives

Why Join Us

A

high‑visibility leadership role

with real strategic impact

Exposure to

complex, global trade challenges

in fast‑growing and diverse markets

Opportunity to shape the

future of Trade Compliance

through digitalisation and transformation

A culture that values

collaboration, accountability, and courageous leadership

You. Unlimited.

We believe in creating the greatest good for society. Our Strongest investments are in our people and patients we serve.

Inclusion and Belonging

: Committed to Welcoming, Celebrating and Thriving on Inclusion and Belonging, Learn more about our Employee Inclusion Groups on our website (

www.smith-nephew.com

)

Your Future

: Generous annual bonus and pension Schemes, Save As You Earn share options, and a car allowance.

Work/Life Balance

: Flexible Vacation and Time Off, Paid Holidays and Paid Volunteering Hours, so we can give back to our communities!

Your Wellbeing

: Private Health and Dental plans, Healthcare Cash Plans, Income Protection, Life Assurance and much more.

Flexibility

: Hybrid Working Model (For most professional roles).

Training

: Hands-On, Team-Customised, Mentorship.

Extra Perks

: Discounts on Gyms and fitness clubs, Salary Sacrifice Bicycle and Car Schemes and many other Employee discounts.

Stay connected by joining our

Talent Community

.

We're more than just a company - we're

a community! Follow us on

LinkedIn

to see how we support and empower our employees and patients every day.

Check us out on

Glassdoor

for a glimpse behind the scenes and a sneak peek into

You. Unlimited.

, life, culture, and benefits at S+N.

Explore our

website

and learn more about our mission, our team, and the opportunities we offer.