Job Description

The purpose of the Export Control Manager is to maintain and continuously improve a robust export control compliance framework tailored to subsea engineering and offshore operations. To ensure sufficient awareness and controls are distributed within the broader business

About The Role

The key responsibilities of the role are:

Ensure adherence to the UK Export Control Act 2002, Export Control Order 2008, and related sanctions regimes. Monitor updates to export controls and sanctions legislation (UK, EU, and US) and assess the impact on business operations. Oversee compliance with international trade controls where applicable (e.g. US ITAR/EAR, EU Dual-Use Regulation). Serve as the primary point of contact for internal and external export compliance queries. Manage applications for export licences, including Standard Individual Export Licences (SIELs) and Open General Export Licences (OGELs) with the UK Export Control Joint Unit (ECJU). Contribute to the classification of goods, software, and technology under the UK Strategic Export Control Lists and other relevant jurisdictions. Identify and mitigate export control risks related to new projects, customers, and destinations. Oversee controls on the electronic transfer of technical data and software. Support operational teams with export documentation, end-use controls and shipping instructions. Maintain accurate records of licence applications, approvals, and usage. Advise senior management and operational teams on export control and sanctions requirements. Provide regular training and awareness sessions for employees on export control policies and procedures. Conduct internal audits and risk assessments to identify potential gaps in compliance and develop corrective action plans and oversee their implementation. Support investigations of potential breaches and coordinate voluntary disclosures where necessary. Liaise with UK government authorities as required (e.g. ECJU, HMRC, FCDO). Collaborate with logistics, supply chain, engineering, legal and sales teams to ensure compliant business practices.

Requirements


The candidate must have extensive knowledge of UK export control laws, sanctions regimes, and international trade compliance frameworks. You must also have Experience managing export control compliance in an engineering, energy, defence, or subsea sector and an understanding of technical product classification, dual-use goods, and technology transfer controls


A Degree in Law, International Trade, Engineering, or a related discipline is desirable but not essential, as is membership of a relevant professional body (e.g., Institute of Export & International Trade). Sound general trade compliance knowledge would be advantageous.


In terms of personal traits, you must have/be:

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with meticulous attention to detail. Self-motivated and proactive, with the ability to work independently and collaboratively across cross-functional teams. Passion for driving change with a focus on continuous improvement Computer literate and proficient in relevant systems, including all main Microsoft Office packages

Required Criteria

Extensive knowledge of UK export control laws, sanctions regimes, and international trade compliance frameworks. Experience managing export control compliance in an engineering, energy, defence, or subsea sector. Understanding of technical product classification, dual-use goods, and technology transfer controls

Desired Criteria

Degree in Law, International Trade, Engineering, or a related discipline Membership of a relevant professional body (e.g., Institute of Export & International Trade) Sound general trade compliance knowledge

Skills Needed

About The Company

The power behind subsea pioneers.


We collaborate with future-thinking companies to draw knowledge, wealth and prosperity from underwater environments. Together, our teams invent and engineer the answers to the toughest challenges in under water industry and science. Allowing for safe and efficient operations, while harnessing the potential of the most challenging subsea locations on the planet.

Company Culture

Our people.


We don't refer to our own employees as staff or personnel. They are 'Our people'. 'Our engineers'. 'Our team'. 'Our talent.' Without our talented people, we would never progress as a company. They embody our values, and they mean everything to us. Whether we are talking directly to them, or about them--the value, attitude and intelligence of our people should be clear.

Company Benefits

At Soil Machine Dynamics (SMD), we value our employees and offer a comprehensive benefits package to support their well-being and professional growth. Our benefits include competitive salaries, generous holiday allowances, and a company pension scheme to ensure financial security. We prioritize employee health with private medical insurance, wellness programs, and access to mental health support. Professional development is encouraged through training opportunities and career progression pathways. Additionally, we foster a positive work-life balance with flexible working options where possible. At SMD, we are committed to rewarding our team's hard work and dedication with benefits that enhance both their personal and professional lives.


Health insurance, Vacation, Paid time off, Paid sick days, Retirement plan and/or pension, Office perks, Employee development programs, Gym membership or wellness programs, Casual dress, Free parking, Cycle to work, Free work laptop, Referral bonus, Competitive salary, Life insurance, Free meals during shifts, Employee Assistance Scheme, Wellbeing Scheme, Shopping Cashback, Annual Rise, Employee Recognition Scheme, Hybrid Working, Annual performance review, Culture of recognition, On the job learning, Progression opportunities, Access to Health & Wellbeing app, Long service awards, Staff celebration events

Salary

Not disclosed