Defence Export Compliance Manager

This is a regional role for EMEA and the role can be performed remotely within the European Union.

Purpose Statement:

The EMEA Defense Trade Compliance Manager will be a foundational member of the EMEA trade compliance team, responsible for building, implementing, and maintaining a robust defense export compliance program in Romania and, subsequently, Poland, while overseeing Plexus' existing UK defense trade compliance program. This role serves as the primary subject matter expert on EU export controls related to military and defense goods manufacturing, directly advising senior leadership and guiding strategic implementation efforts. This person will ensure operational excellence, regulatory compliance, and the ability to support key customer defense programs from the ground up.

Key Job Accountabilities:

• Program Development & Implementation:Design, develop, and implement all aspects of a new export compliance program for defense manufacturing in Romania. This includes creating and documenting policies, processes, and work instructions that are compliant with EU and national regulations (Romania/Poland) while adapting existing US and UK-based processes.
• Strategic & Legal Framework:Lead the effort to secure necessary legal authorizations and licenses from government bodies such as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Department for Export Controls (ANCEX) and the Ministry of National Defence in Romania. Manage the strategic planning for a potential future program implementation in Poland.
• Operational Execution:Act as the hands-on lead for critical operational tasks, including obtaining specific manufacturing and export licenses, implementing personnel screening and security procedures (e.g., deemed export controls), and establishing technology control plans.
• Subject Matter Expertise:Serve as the in-region authority on EU export controls for defense articles. Provide expert guidance to senior EMEA leadership, internal stakeholders, customers, and suppliers to ensure all activities are compliant and to mitigate risk.
• Customer & Supply Chain Readiness:Establish and manage a customer onboarding process for jurisdiction and classification and implement a robust defense supplier vetting program to ensure a compliant and capable supply chain in the region.
• Training & Auditing:Develop and deliver comprehensive export control training programs for all relevant site personnel. Establish and execute an ongoing audit and continuous improvement framework to monitor compliance and adapt to evolving regulations.
• Collaboration:Partner with corporate trade compliance teams, external legal counsel, and site-level teams to ensure the program aligns with global strategy and local requirements.

Education/Experience Qualifications:

• Typically requires a minimum of 8 years of related experience with a Bachelor's degree; or 5 years and a Master's degree; or equivalent work experience.
• Demonstrated in-depth experience and expertise in EU export controls and regulations, specifically with defense or military goods manufacturing.

Other Qualifications:

• Advanced computer skills, including proficiency in Google Workspace or MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Advanced decision-making and problem-solving skills, with the ability to navigate complex and ambiguous regulatory environments.
• Advanced verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively communicate complex compliance concepts to diverse audiences, including senior executives and technical teams.
• Experience with government agencies and the process of obtaining export licenses for defense articles.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, fluid environment and manage multiple, high-priority projects concurrently.
• Fluency in English is required; fluency in Romanian or Polish is a significant advantage.
• EMS or Electronics Manufacturing industry experience is preferred.