What's Happening?
Subaru of America, Inc. (SOA), a wholly owned subsidiary of Subaru Corporation of Japan, is actively recruiting an Export Trade Compliance Manager. This role is crucial for directing and managing SOA's export compliance program in accordance with regulations
set by the U.S. Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS), the U.S. Census Bureau, the U.S. Office of Foreign Assets Controls (OFAC), and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). The manager will be responsible for establishing, implementing, and overseeing policies and procedures to ensure SOA's adherence to all U.S. export regulations. Key duties include leading compliance activities for the BIS Connected Vehicle Rule, conducting internal audits, investigating non-compliance incidents, and communicating results to stakeholders. The position also involves interfacing with Subaru Corporation (SBR) to determine Export Control Classification Numbers (ECCNs) for new technologies and collaborating with Toyota Motor North America (TMNA) on ECCN determinations for Alliance vehicles. The manager will also develop and maintain an online Export Control Awareness Course and provide training to internal business units.
Why It's Important?
This hiring initiative underscores the increasing complexity and stringent nature of U.S. export regulations, particularly for the automotive industry. The role of an Export Trade Compliance Manager is vital for mitigating legal and financial risks associated with non-compliance, which can include significant penalties and reputational damage. By proactively managing its export compliance program, SOA aims to ensure the smooth flow of its vehicles, parts, and accessories across international borders, supporting its extensive network of approximately 640 retailers across the United States. The focus on the BIS Connected Vehicle Rule highlights the growing regulatory scrutiny on advanced automotive technologies and data security. Furthermore, the manager's involvement in Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) indicates SOA's strategic efforts to optimize trade benefits and maintain competitive pricing for its products, ultimately benefiting U.S. consumers and the company's market position. The emphasis on the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act (UFLPA) also reflects a broader industry trend towards ethical sourcing and supply chain transparency, impacting global manufacturing and trade practices.
What's Next?
The successful candidate for the Export Trade Compliance Manager position will immediately begin to lead and manage SOA's export compliance activities. This will involve establishing an internal task force to align initiatives with Subaru Corporation (SBR) and other stakeholders, particularly concerning the BIS Connected Vehicle Rule. The manager will also be responsible for staying current with regulatory changes, adapting company activities as needed, and providing guidance to all SOA departments and off-site locations. Ongoing tasks will include researching export license requirements, submitting and managing export licenses, and providing critical support for 'one-off' export shipments. The manager will also continue to develop and implement training programs to foster a culture of compliance excellence throughout the organization. This proactive approach is expected to minimize SOA's exposure to penalties and ensure continued adherence to evolving U.S. export regulations, thereby safeguarding the company's operations and market presence.
Beyond the Headlines
The creation of this specialized role reflects a broader trend in the automotive and manufacturing sectors where global supply chains and technological advancements are intersecting with increasingly complex international trade regulations. The emphasis on ECCN determinations for new technologies in future vehicle models points to the critical need for companies to navigate the dual-use nature of certain technologies, which can have both commercial and military applications, thus falling under stricter export controls. The collaboration with Toyota Motor North America (TMNA) on ECCNs for Alliance vehicles highlights the interconnectedness of the automotive industry and the shared responsibility in ensuring compliance across partnerships. Furthermore, the mention of the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act (UFLPA) underscores the growing importance of human rights considerations in international trade, pushing companies to scrutinize their supply chains for ethical sourcing. This role is not just about legal adherence but also about maintaining brand integrity and corporate social responsibility in a globalized economy.
