Job Description

Customs & Distribution Senior Manager



National Oceanography Centre, Southampton



Permanent



Full time (37 hours per week)



54,047 - 59,449





Who are we?



We are the National Oceanography Centre (NOC) - the UK's leading institution for integrated coastal and deep ocean research. Through our ground-breaking research, collaboration, and game-changing innovation we work to gain a deeper understanding of our ocean, helping every living thing on our planet flourish.



We are made up of a dynamic and vibrant community focused on solving challenging long-term marine science problems, underpinning international and UK public policy, business and societal outcomes.



The ocean has the potential to provide the solutions to so many of the social, economic and environmental challenges we face worldwide. To truly harness the value of the ocean, we put ocean research, science and discovery at the heart of our culture.



Join us in shaping the future of oceanographic research and contribute your unique perspective to our organisation.





About the role



The Customs & Distribution Senior Manager plays a pivotal role within NOC's Supply Chain team, ensuring the compliant, efficient, and secure movement of goods both nationally and internationally.



You will lead the management and strategic development of NOC's Customs Warehouse and import/export operations across a diverse range of materials -- from scientific instruments and marine engineering equipment to controlled, hazardous, and dual-use goods.



This role is responsible for maintaining full compliance with UK customs regulations, export control laws, and international trade requirements, while supporting NOC's global science missions.



You will act as NOC's principal point of contact for HMRC, freight forwarders, and customs brokers, ensuring documentation, declarations, and record-keeping meet the highest standards of accuracy and governance.



Key responsibilities


Lead, manage, and develop the Customs & Distribution team to deliver safe, efficient, and compliant operations. Oversee the daily operation of NOC's Customs Warehouse, ensuring accurate control of bonded and non-bonded stock. Manage all import and export activities, ensuring compliance with customs regulations, including Authorised Use, Temporary Admission, and Inward Processing Relief (IPR). Maintain compliance with UK Export Control, dual-use, and hazardous goods legislation, and ensure proper documentation and licensing (SPIRE, OGEL, CITES, etc.). Develop, implement, and monitor Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for customs and distribution processes. Act as the key interface with HMRC, UK Border Force, and other regulatory authorities, ensuring NOC meets all obligations under the UK Customs and Excise Management Act (CEMA) and relevant international frameworks. Ensure all import/export documentation (commercial invoices, packing lists, declarations, licences, and certificates) are complete, accurate, and retained as required. Coordinate and optimise national and international logistics, ensuring cost-effective, timely, and compliant movement of goods in support of research and operational projects. Support audits, compliance reviews, and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance governance, transparency, and efficiency across customs and logistics functions. Provide subject matter expertise and training across NOC on customs compliance, export controls, and distribution procedures.




About you



You are a knowledgeable and proactive logistics professional with extensive experience managing customs-controlled operations and international trade compliance. You combine strategic oversight with hands-on operational capability and thrive in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment.



Essential attributes


Significant experience in customs management, bonded warehousing, and international logistics. Strong understanding of HMRC requirements, customs procedures, and international trade regulations. Proven experience managing import/export documentation and compliance for controlled, hazardous, or dual-use goods. Knowledge of the UK Trade Tariff, commodity codes, and duty management systems. Familiarity with SPIRE export licensing, OGELs, and end-use controls. Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to work collaboratively across scientific, technical, and operational functions. High attention to detail and a commitment to maintaining governance and traceability in all documentation and processes.




Why NOC?



At NOC, you'll join a passionate and multidisciplinary team dedicated to supporting cutting-edge science and engineering. We offer a supportive and inclusive environment, opportunities for professional development, and a chance to play a direct role in enabling world-leading ocean research that benefits our planet.



We offer a generous set of benefits, including:


30 days contractual annual leave, plus 3.5 extra closure days and bank holidays a 10% employer contribution pension scheme access to our Employee Assistance Programme, offering free and anonymous support on mental, physical, emotional, health and financial issues access to a flexible benefits portal offering online discounts, cashback and eGift cards a Cycle2Work scheme allowing employees to acquire bikes and accessories a great working environment with a number of social events, including summer and Christmas celebrations we are proud to be a Living Wage Employer




Location



This position will be based in Southampton. The centre is well connected by public transport and has ample cycle parking in addition to free onsite car-parking with over 40 EV charging points.



The NOC has a hybrid working approach where for most positions staff can work from home up to 2 days per week. If you are interested in this position, but require a more flexible working arrangement, please contact the recruitment team using the contact details below.



We may be able to offer financial support for applicants who will need to relocate for this position.





Submitting an application



Please click 'Apply for this job' and submit an up-to-date CV and cover letter.



If you are unable to apply online, please contact the NOC recruitment team at careers@noc.ac.uk / 07355 676794.



Before submitting your application please ensure you have reviewed the attached job description and person specification.



We are committed to fostering diversity and inclusion in our workplace. We actively encourage qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply for this position, as we strive to create a supportive and equitable environment where all voices are valued and heard.



Those seeking employment at NOC are considered solely on their qualifications, skills and experience, without regard to gender, gender identity, age, race, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, relationship status, family status (including pregnancy / maternity leave) or any other protected characteristic.



There is a guaranteed interview scheme for candidates who meet the minimum criteria of the position and declare a disability. NOC is an Investors in People organisation.





Date advert posted: 29/10/2025



Closing date: 26/11/2025



This vacancy may close earlier depending on the number of applicants.



Please note we are not accepting applications via recruitment agencies for this position.