Americas Export Controls & Sanctions Leader (USA)

Syensqo is all about chemistry. We’re not just referring to chemical reactions here, but also to the magic that occurs when the brightest minds get to work together. This is where our true strength lies. In you. In your future colleagues and in all your differences. And of course, in your ideas to improve lives while preserving our planet’s beauty for the generations to come.

We are looking for:

As a key member of the Global Trade Organisation, the Americas Export Controls & Sanctions Director will be responsible for leading the development, implementation, and management of export controls and sanctions compliance programs across all countries in the Americas region, with a particular emphasis on the United States. This role is critical to ensuring that the company operates in full compliance with international trade laws and regulations, mitigating risks related to export controls, sanctions, and international trade activities. The ideal candidate will be an experienced leader with deep knowledge of U.S. export controls (including EAR and ITAR), OFAC sanctions regulations, and the corresponding frameworks in other countries across the Americas. The role requires strong analytical skills, the ability to manage complex regulatory environments, and the capacity to provide strategic guidance to the business on trade compliance matters.

We count on you for:

• Regulatory Compliance: Lead and oversee all export controls and sanctions compliance activities in the Americas region, ensuring adherence to U.S. Export Administration Regulations (EAR), International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), and Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) sanctions, as well as relevant regulations in other Americas countries.
• Policy Development and Implementation: Develop, implement, and maintain robust export controls and sanctions policies, procedures, and training programs tailored to the needs of the region.
• Risk Assessment & Mitigation: Conduct comprehensive risk assessments related to export controls and sanctions. Implement risk mitigation strategies, including classification, licensing, screening, and auditing processes.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Collaborate closely with the other Global Trade departments and business units, general counsel, supply chain, logistics, and other relevant departments to ensure compliance with export controls and sanctions requirements.
• Government Relations: Serve as the key point of contact for interactions with relevant government authorities in the Americas, particularly in the U.S., including handling inquiries, audits, and investigations related to export controls and sanctions.
• Training & Awareness: Lead the design and delivery of training programs to enhance awareness of export controls and sanctions compliance requirements within the organization, particularly in high-risk areas.
• Incident Management: Oversee the investigation and resolution of potential compliance violations, including leading internal investigations and implementing corrective actions.
• Monitoring & Reporting: Establish and oversee monitoring mechanisms to ensure ongoing compliance with export controls and sanctions. Prepare and present regular reports to senior management, in particular to the Group Head of Global Trade and the Group Trade Compliance Officer, on compliance status, risks, and incidents.
• Leadership: Lead and manage a team of 2-5 trade compliance professionals, providing guidance, mentorship, and professional development opportunities.
• Continuous Improvement: Stay abreast of changes in export control and sanctions laws and regulations, and continuously improve the company’s compliance programs to address evolving risks and requirements.

You will bring:

• Education: Master’s degree in Law, International Trade, Business, or a related field. 
• Experience: Minimum of 10 years of experience in export controls, sanctions compliance, or a related trade compliance field, with a strong focus on U.S. regulations. Experience in the chemical or manufacturing industry is highly preferred.
• Leadership: Proven experience in leading and managing a team, with the ability to work cross-functionally and influence stakeholders at all levels of the organization.
• Technical Skills: Deep knowledge of U.S. EAR, ITAR, OFAC regulations, and familiarity with export control and sanctions frameworks in other countries across the Americas.
• Communication: Excellent written and verbal communica