Customs & Trade Compliance Director – China

Job description

Job Description Summary The Customs and Trade Compliance Director – China is responsible for leading all trade compliance and customs activities across China, ensuring the compliant and efficient movement of medical devices and equipment across borders in support of GE HealthCare’s mission to create a world where healthcare has no limits. This role requires deep expertise in China regulations, strong global trade acumen, and the ability to operate effectively within a highly matrixed, international organization. The leader will partner closely with global compliance, supply chain, legal, and regulatory teams to ensure alignment, consistency, and best practice sharing across regions. Operating with a high degree of autonomy and judgment, this role will navigate complex regulatory environments while enabling business growth, operational excellence, and a strong culture of compliance. GE HealthCare is a leading global medical technology and digital solutions innovator. Our purpose is to create a world where healthcare has no limits. Unlock your ambition, turn ideas into world-changing realities, and join an organization where every voice makes a difference, and every difference builds a healthier world. Job Description Key Responsibilities Leadership, Team Building & Organizational Effectiveness Build, lead, and develop a high-performing trade compliance organization across China Attract, mentor, and retain top talent, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement Establish clear goals, performance expectations, and development plans for the team Drive strong cross-functional alignment across regional and global teams Strategy, Global Alignment & Execution Define and execute China trade compliance strategy aligned with global policies and business objectives Partner with global trade compliance leadership to ensure consistency, standardization, and adoption of best practices Provide strategic counsel to senior leadership on regulatory risks, global trade developments, and business implications Influence policy development and promote best-in-class compliance practices Customs & Regulatory Compliance Ensure full compliance with China Customs (GACC), MOFCOM, and all applicable import/export regulations Oversee tariff classification, valuation, country of origin, duty optimization, and licensing requirements Maintain expert knowledge of China trade regulations, while understanding broader global trade frameworks and implications Lead audits, investigations, and corrective actions Relationship Building & External Engagement Develop and sustain strong, credible relationships with China customs authorities and regulatory agencies Serve as the primary company representative for inspections, audits, negotiations, and escalations Build trust and influence with internal stakeholders across China, regionally, and globally Represent GE HealthCare in regulatory discussions and industry forums Global Collaboration Collaborate closely with global, regional, and functional teams to align on compliance strategies and operational execution Provide China-specific expertise to global initiatives, ensuring local requirements are effectively integrated into global frameworks Share insights on regulatory trends, enforcement practices, and risk exposure impacting international trade Support cross-border projects, supply chain transformations, and global product launches Operational Excellence & Execution Oversee processes governing the movement and shipment of goods into and out of China Drive improvements in service, quality, compliance, and operational efficiency Implement robust controls, systems, and procedures to ensure consistent and scalable execution Problem Solving & Decision Making Lead resolution of complex, high-impact regulatory and operational challenges Apply advanced analytical thinking and sound judgment in ambiguous, high-risk situations Assess information critically, challenge assumptions, and develop practical, compliant solutions Navigate disputes with customs authorities and manage escalations effectively Drive root cause analysis and implement sustainable corrective actions Risk Management Identify, assess, and mitigate trade compliance risks across the China business Establish frameworks to proactively monitor and manage risk exposure Ensure strong governance and internal controls Qualifications Expertise Deep knowledge of China import/export regulations and customs practices Strong understanding of global trade compliance frameworks and cross-border operations Experience working directly with China customs authorities and managing complex regulatory matters Familiarity with ERP systems, trade compliance technologies, and global supply chains Leadership & Professional Skills Proven ability to build and lead high-performing teams Strong relationship-building and stakeholder management capabilities across cultures Global mindset with strong business and trade acumen Exceptional problem-solving and decision-making skills Ability to influence, negotiate, and drive outcomes in complex, cross-functional environments Communication Excellent verbal and written communication skills Ability to clearly articulate complex regulatory concepts to diverse global audiences Language Requirement Fluent in Mandarin and English (written and spoken) – required Experience Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent and 10–15+ years of experience in trade compliance, customs operations, or international logistics in China Strong experience in medical devices, healthcare, or other highly regulated industries Demonstrated success leading teams in a global, matrixed organization Core Competencies Strategic leadership and global execution Team building and talent development Global collaboration and cross-cultural effectiveness Relationship management and external influence Advanced problem solving and judgment Regulatory expertise and risk management Inclusion and Diversity GE HealthCare is an Equal Opportunity Employer where inclusion matters. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law. We expect all employees to live and breathe our behaviors: to act with humility and build trust; lead with transparency; deliver with focus, and drive ownership – always with unyielding integrity. Our total rewards are designed to unlock your ambition by giving you the boost and flexibility you need to turn your ideas into world-changing realities. Our salary and benefits are everything you’d expect from an organization with global strength and scale, and you’ll be surrounded by career opportunities in a culture that fosters care, collaboration and support. Additional Information Relocation Assistance Provided: Yes