Objectives of the Position         

The Global Manager, Customs Classification is accountable for leading and overseeing all customs classification activities for BASF products, raw materials, and non-chemical materials in compliance with international and national regulations.

The role ensures accurate classification, regulatory compliance, and harmonized processes globally, while providing strategic direction and governance across regions.

In addition, the position is responsible for building and developing a high-performing global team, driving operational excellence, and ensuring alignment with business and regulatory requirements.

Responsibilities

Customs Service Delivery

• Lead the delivery of customs classification services to business units globally
• Act as escalation point for complex classification and customs-related issues
• Ensure timely and high-quality response to business queries and operational needs
• Drive effective collaboration with Trade Compliance, Supply Chain, and other stakeholders

Customs Classification (Operations)

• Oversee and ensure accurate classification of products, raw materials, and non-chemical materials
• Maintain accountability for classification master data quality and governance
• Define and implement global standards, policies, and procedures for classification
• Monitor changes in customs laws, ensuring timely implementation across regions
• Drive global harmonization of classification data and processes
• Represent BASF interests in internal governance and external regulatory discussions

Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure full compliance with customs regulations, trade laws, and tariff schedules
• Lead audit readiness, compliance assessments, and internal control frameworks
• Identify and mitigate classification-related risks and discrepancies
• Oversee development and maintenance of SOPs and related documentation

Performance Management & Reporting

• Define and track KPIs for classification activities across regions
• Review monthly reports, dashboards, and performance metrics
• Drive data transparency, analytics, and performance improvement initiatives
• Ensure effective reporting standardization and automation

Process & Systems Improvement

• Lead digitalization and automation initiatives for classification processes
• Oversee system enhancements (e.g., SAP / SAP GTS) and related testing activities
• Drive continuous improvement and operational efficiency
• Ensure alignment of IT solutions with business and compliance needs

Leadership & Team Management

• Lead, develop, and manage a globally distributed classification team
• Define roles, responsibilities, and performance expectations
• Conduct performance reviews and drive a culture of accountability
• Coach and develop team members to strengthen technical and leadership capabilities
• Ensure effective workload distribution and resource planning across regions

Stakeholder & Governance Management

• Act as key interface between global, regional, and local classification teams
• Engage with senior stakeholders (e.g., Trade Compliance, Supply Chain leadership)
• Lead governance forums, alignment meetings, and knowledge-sharing platforms
• Ensure consistent adoption of global standards and best practices

Job Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineer or any major in related scientific discipline
• Minimum 8-10 years’ relevant experience in Classification, Customs and Foreign Trade; familiar with Supply Chain operations
• Strong expertise in customs classification and trade regulations
• Knowledge of chemical and non-chemical product classification
• Experience with SAP and SAP GTS systems
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills
• Proficient in Microsoft Office tool
• English (fluent in spoken and written)
• German language will be advantages