PRIMARY FUNCTION

Phillips is seeking a highly knowledgeable and detail-oriented UK Customs Manager to join our shipping team. The successful candidate will manage all customs compliance activities for Phillips London, ensuring adherence to HMRC regulations and maintaining the highest operational standards. This role includes oversight of one Temporary Admission account, management of a Customs Warehouse, and the issuance of clearance instructions for all pre-sale shipments.
Phillips values a workforce with a wide variety of experiences, backgrounds and skills, and we encourage you to apply even if you do not meet all of the qualifications.

PROFESSIONAL SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

• Proven experience in customs compliance within the UK, preferably in the art or auction sector.
• Strong working knowledge of Temporary Admission procedures, Customs Warehousing, and AEO standards.
• Excellent understanding of UK and international trade regulations.
• Experience issuing customs clearance instructions, using customs software (eCustoms) and managing customs brokers/forwarders.
• Exceptional attention to detail, with strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Confident communicator with the ability to manage cross-functional relationships and external stakeholders.
• Experience with HMRC audits and maintaining customs records to the highest standard.

EDUCATION AND TRAINING

• Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent work experience, required
• Advanced Degree/Masters, preferred

Customs Compliance:

• Manage the end-to-end customs process for all consignments, ensuring full compliance with UK customs regulations
• Oversee the maintenance and accurate management of the Temporary Admission (TA) account, ensuring timely discharges and extensions where required
• Manage the Customs Warehouse operations, including record-keeping and audit readiness
• Issue precise and timely customs clearance instructions to fine art shipping agents and couriers
• Monitor post-sale VAT deadlines to ensure timely and accurate discharge of items
• Ensure timely processing of post-sale Home Use diversions in accordance with our TA agreement
• Uphold Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) standards across the business
• Monitor legislative changes and provide proactive advice to senior management regarding potential business impacts

Audits & Record-Keeping:

• Lead the preparation for HMRC audits and internal reviews, ensuring all customs records and declarations are accurate and up to date
• Conduct regular internal audits to verify compliance with customs processes and highlight areas for continuous improvement

Stakeholder & Team Collaboration:

• Act as the primary point of contact for customs-related queries, both internally and externally
• Work closely with operations, legal, finance, and client services teams to ensure smooth transactional flow and compliance
• Liaise with HMRC and other regulatory bodies as needed