Global Customs Manager

Main Purpose: In-house Tax department - Correctly discharge all Customs and Excise obligations, ensure full compliance with the rules & regulations and manage the Customs and Excise working capital position in the Puma Energy Group. Knowledge Skills and Abilities, Key Responsibilities: KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: The Global Customs Manager will work with both internal cross-functional partners within the business and with external partners and suppliers to ensure customs, excise and international trade compliance within Puma Energy globally, namely: Compliance Management: Ensure compliance with all applicable Customs and Excise laws and regulations, particularly excise tax, customs duties, and other similar indirect taxes;Monitor changes in Customs and Excise laws and regulations globally, assess their impact on the organization, and implement necessary adjustments to ensure compliance;Maintain Customs and Excise licenses, registrations and permits;Preparation and provision of training in Customs and Excise areas; andAppointment and management of Customs Agents. Tax Planning and Strategy: Develop and implement tax planning strategies to optimize Customs and Excise positions, minimize tax liabilities, and identify tax-saving opportunities;Be the in-house Customs and Excise advisor for the Puma Energy Group;Collaborate with cross-functional teams to align tax planning initiatives with business objectives and ensure tax-efficient structures and transactions; andInterpretation and implementation of International Trade Instruments, Trade Agreements, Economic Partnership Agreements, etc. Tax Reporting and Filings: Ensure all required documentation and supporting records are maintained according to each country prescription laws;Ensure that monthly, quarterly or annual Customs and Excise reconciliations are performed; andCoordinate with accounting, finance and other teams to obtain necessary data for Customs and Excise reporting purposes. Tax Audits and Disputes: Manage and coordinate all audits and inquiries by Customs and Excise authorities;Respond to or assist the countries in responding to inquiries, providing requested information, and represent the organization in discussions with Customs and Excise Authorities; andPrepare and defend tax positions during audits and resolve any disputes or controversies in collaboration with legal and tax advisors. Process Improvement: Continuously assess and enhance internal processes, systems, and controls to ensure efficiency, accuracy, and compliance;Formalization and operationalizing of the Group's Customs and Excise Policies;Documentation of procedures and mapping of flows;Identify opportunities for automation and technology adoption to streamline Customs and Excise related workflows and reporting; andKeep updated on global developments at international bodies (WCO, WTO, OECD, etc.). In Addition: Maintain relations with Customs and other relevant Authorities; Weekly Management Reporting; and Advise and monitor on all new product flows globally. SKILSS & COMPETENCIES: Competencies A high level of internal and external communication skills; Relationship building with both internal and external partners; A large amount of cross department data sharing; Needs to develop a good working relationship with third parties and external bodies such as local Chambers of Commerce, Industry Bodies and local customs authorities; Required to provide support to from both a strategic / projects perspective and also day-to-day operational issues and challenges; A willingness to travel to different countries; Structured and organized approach; Able to work under pressure; and Team player. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Self-starter Hands-on Attention to detail Assertive Tenacious Good communication skills Cope under pressure Strong Lateral thinking and problem-solving skills Requirements: A degree in Law, Tax or Accounting 10+ years' experience in Customs and Excise Experience in different jurisdictions a major advantage Experience in the oil industry a major advantage Background in Accounting (Big Four), Legal professions and/or Tax Authority experience an advantage Key Relationships and Department Overview: External Stakeholders - Tax and Customs and Excise Authorities, Tax Consultants and Lawyers, Clearing Agents, transporters, Government Departments, etc, Internal Stakeholders - Tax, Finance, Supply, Legal, Traders, Business Development, Logistics, Transport teams, etc