Specialist Iii, Customs & Trade Compliance

Job Summary

Are you ready to play a key role in strengthening a global trade compliance program that supports safe, responsible, and sustainable business operations?

IFF is a global leader in flavors, fragrances, food ingredients, and health and biosciences. We deliver sustainable innovations that elevate everyday products.

Business Unit: Global Operations

Ensuring excellence in execution-from procurement to supply chain and reliability-delivering quality, safety, efficiency, and sustainability across the value chain.

The Specialist III, Customs & Trade Compliance position is anchored in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, or Madison, Wisconsin (hybrid), both key manufacturing and operational locations, with flexibility across select Midwest hubs, including Chicago. Be part of a close‑knit, collaborative team known for practical problem‑solving and strong regional partnerships.

Your potential is our inspiration.

Where You'll Make a Difference

• Serve as the primary point of contact for local and regional teams on customs and trade compliance matters.
• Lead and participate in complex projects to implement trade compliance programs and import and export processes.
• Develop and manage a governance framework that monitors global compliance performance across supply chain operations.
• Ensure full customs compliance, including operational requirements related to Authorized Economic Operator programs, security programs, and customs licensing.
• Monitor emerging trade regulations and communicate impacts to international trade operations.
• Provide training, guidance, and operational support to business teams to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Lead disciplined import and export operations by applying appropriate systems, processes, and self‑audit procedures.
• Identify, track, and report customs compliance indicators and cost‑saving opportunities.
• Drive customs duty savings through free trade agreements, duty optimization programs, and incentive initiatives.

What Makes You the Right Fit

• Bachelor's degree in Customs, International Trade, Logistics, or related field; or equivalent relevant experience.
• Strong knowledge of customs and excise procedures in the United States and Canada.
• Deep understanding of international trade, import regulations, and export regulations.
• Minimum five years of experience in customs operations.
• Experience with trade compliance systems such as enterprise resource planning global trade modules, including electronic customs management, export controls, and license management.
• Strong analytical skills and a solution‑oriented mindset.
• Skilled in project leadership or project implementation.
• Strong presentation capabilities for training and influencing stakeholders.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills in English.
• Demonstrated high ethical standards and commitment to compliance.

How You Would Stand Out

• Experience resolving complex operational trade issues and identifying root causes.
• Ability to collaborate with external suppliers and internal teams to develop corrective action plans.
• Experience representing a global trade function on enterprise-level initiatives.

Why Choose Us

• Opportunity to shape and strengthen a global trade compliance program.
• Collaborative international environment that promotes learning and growth.
• Ability to lead cross-functional projects with global visibility.
• Meaningful work that supports responsible and sustainable supply chain operations.
• Access a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, 401(k), paid parental leave, vacation, holidays, and an annual bonus plan.

We are a global leader in taste, scent, and nutrition, offering our customers a broader range of natural solutions and accelerating our growth strategy. At IFF, we believe that your uniqueness unleashes our potential. We value the diverse mosaic of the ethnicity, national origin, race, age, sex, or veteran status. We strive for an inclusive workplace that allows each of our colleagues to bring their authentic self to work regardless of their religion, gender identity & expression, sexual orientation, or disability.

Visit IFF.com/careers/workplace-diversity-and-inclusion to learn more