HS Code Classification & Transformation Manager
Location: Seri Kembangan, fully onsite
Coverage: APAC
Industry: Retail / High-SKU Consumer Goods
Function: Global Trade & Product Compliance
About the Role
We're looking for a hands-on, operationally-driven HS Code Classification & Transformation Manager to lead classification for a fast-scaling retail business with a high-SKU portfolio across the APAC region. This is a people manager role for someone who genuinely wants to be in the details of classification work, while also stepping up as the operational voice in a major HS digitalization and platform project. You'll lead a classification team, own the day-to-day engine that keeps products moving across borders accurately and on time, and thrive in an environment that moves fast and rewards people who can build structure as they go.
WHAT YOU'LL DO
Lead Classification Operations
- Own the end-to-end HS Code classification pipeline for new and existing SKUs, hitting SLA targets without compromising accuracy
- Maintain and strengthen the centralized classification master database, including rationale, references, and country-specific nuances
- Partner with country import teams and brokers to resolve customs queries and turn recurring issues into permanent fixes
Build Classification Governance
- Apply and refine classification methodology grounded in WCO/GRI principles and real product characteristics
- Build a structured classification knowledge hub capturing rationale, rulings, and audit trails
- Run risk checks comparing internal classification data against actual import declarations
Drive Platform Transformation
- Partner with regional and IT stakeholders to define workflow, access, and reporting requirements for a new HS digital platform
- Lead data cleansing and enrichment to enable future automation and AI-assisted classification
- Design validation rules to catch classification risk before it hits customs
Grow the Team
- Coach classification coordinators into strong, judgment-driven reviewers
- Drive continuous improvement across turnaround time, rework, and quality
WHAT YOU BRING
Must-Have
- 5–8+ years of hands-on HS Code classification experience (essential)
- Solid working knowledge of HS classification principles and GRI application
- Experience in a high-SKU environment. E.g., retail, e-commerce, FMCG, customs brokerage
- Mandarin fluency (spoken and written)
- Strong Excel and data management skills
- Proven people management experience
- Able to manage and lead a cross-functional team
Nice-to-Have
- Exposure to BI tools, SQL, ERP/GTM systems, or trade automation platforms
- Experience in process digitalization, master data cleanup, or system implementation
- Multi-country or regional trade operations exposure across APAC
Remuneration package
- Competitive monthly salary
- Strong performance bonus, averaging 2–3 months
- Guaranteed 13th month
- Comprehensive benefits: EPF, medical (outpatient & inpatient coverage), dental, and a flexible lifestyle/wellness benefit
- Travel and fuel support
- 15 days annual leave