Director, Customs Brokerage

About Ascent

Ascent Global Logistics headquartered in Belleville Michigan is a leading global provider of expedited time-critical logistics solutions and other direct transportation services. The company connects customers to its extensive carrier network internal ground fleet and airline via its proprietary digital PEAK freight marketplace which provides robust carrier capacity and transparent pricing backed by 24/7/365 logistics experts. Ascents offerings include air charter and ground expedited solutions as well as truckload less-than-truckload global forwarding brokerage and managed transportation services. The experienced Ascent team solves customers most challenging logistics needs by providing industry-leading service and top-tier satisfaction.

Our Guiding Principles

At the core of Ascents culture is a strong commitment to excellence driven by the passion and dedication of every team member. Were equally dedicated to going above and beyond for our customers ensuring this commitment extends beyond our team and brings exceptional value to those we serve. We aim for perfect execution in everything we do and play hard by creating an environment where tasks are performed with a can-do attitude from start to finish. We play smart by delivering on our commitments in an honest fair and ethical manner. We treat every person with whom we interface with the utmost dignity and respect. We understand that our teammates are our most valuable assets so we play together by making every effort to provide a professional and enjoyable experience enabling careers to flourish and personal growth to be achieved.

What Youll Do

The Director Customs Brokerage oversees the performance compliance and daily execution of Ascents U.S. customs brokerage network ensuring regulatory adherence process discipline and an exceptional customer experience

• Lead the day-to-day execution performance and compliance of the companys U.S. customs brokerage network.
• Oversee bonded facilities including Foreign Trade Zones (FTZs) Container Freight Stations (CFS) and bonded warehouses.
• Ensure operational consistency regulatory adherence and service excellence across multiple sites.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives within customs brokerage and bonded operations.
• Support and execute strategic initiatives set by executive leadership.
• Serve as a key operational leader translating strategy into actionable plans.
• Strengthen process discipline across brokerage and bonded operations.
• Ensure operations deliver accuracy speed and an exceptional customer experience.

What Youll Bring

• High school diploma or general education degree (GED)

• LCB Required; CCS / CES preferred
• 810 years of progressive experience in customs brokerage and international freight forwarding including direct oversight of import and export operations.
• Proven people leadership experience including 3 years managing customer- or carrier-facing teams in a fast-paced deadline-driven environment.
• Demonstrated expertise in U.S. and international trade compliance including customs clearance processes government agency requirements and risk management.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills with experience using data to identify trends drive process improvements and resolve complex customs issues.
• Proven ability to build and maintain relationships with customs authorities carriers vendors and key customers demonstrating tact diplomacy and professionalism.
• Proficiency with customs and trade compliance systems and common business tools (e.g. TMS ERP Microsoft Office) with a comfort level learning new technology.
• Demonstrated capability to design implement and refine standard operating procedures to improve accuracy cycle time and compliance in brokerage operations.
• Advanced verbal and written communication skills with the ability to simplify complex regulatory concepts for internal stakeholders and customers.

Ascents Competitive Benefits

• 401(k) and employer matching

• Life Insurance

• Health Dental Vision Insurance

• Short- & Long-Term Disability

• Paid Time Off (PTO)

• Employee Assistance Program

• Paid Parental Leave

• Employee Wellness Program

• Paid Holidays

• Employee Recognition Programs

• Flexible Spending Account (FSA)

• Tuition Reimbursement

• Health Savings Account (HSA)

• Overtime Differential & Bonus Pay

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