Assistant Compliance Manager - SEZ & STPI Regulatory Operations

POSITION OVERVIEW

The AM Compliance of Compliance & Regulatory Operations leads strategic oversight of Special Economic Zone (SEZ) and Software Technology Parks of India (STPI) regulatory compliance across multiple client locations. This role drives comprehensive management of import-export documentation, SOFTEX declarations, foreign trade policy implementation, and strategic regulatory relationships with government authorities across India.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic Compliance Leadership

Provides executive oversight of SEZ, STPI, and Domestic Tariff Area (DTA) compliance operations across Hyderabad and pan-India client facilities. Develops and implements enterprise-wide compliance strategies that optimize regulatory efficiency while mitigating organizational risk. Establishes governance frameworks for maintaining Letters of Approval (LOA), Letters of Permission (LOP), and all regulatory licenses and permits.

Regulatory Authority Relations

Cultivates and manages strategic relationships with SEZ authorities, STPI officials, Customs departments, and Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) representatives. Serves as primary liaison for regulatory inquiries, audits, and policy consultations. Navigates complex regulatory environments to secure favorable outcomes for client operations.

Import-Export Operations Management

Directs comprehensive SOFTEX declaration processes and bank attestations across authorized financial institutions. Oversees end-to-end import-export documentation, customs clearance procedures, and Importer-Exporter Code (IEC) profile administration. Manages duty-free import operations for all SEZ and STPI locations throughout India, ensuring compliance with prevailing foreign trade policies.

Tax Optimization & Procurement Strategy

Leads SEZ endorsement processes for invoices to maximize tax benefits on DTA procurement of goods and services. Monitors capital goods procurement activities and maintains BCLU (Bill of Entry for Capital Goods and Luggage) bond balance oversight. Identifies opportunities for duty optimization and cost reduction through strategic compliance planning.

Strategic Operations & Asset Management

Manages relationships with customs house agents (CHA) and oversees payment processes and performance monitoring. Drives strategic initiatives for bulk debonding of aged, obsolete, or redundant duty-free assets across STPI and SEZ units, optimizing capital deployment and regulatory standing.

Documentation, Reporting & Policy Intelligence

Ensures meticulous maintenance of all compliance documentation and regulatory approvals. Produces executive-level compliance reports, regulatory newsletters, and performance dashboards for senior leadership. Maintains continuous intelligence on policy changes, regulatory updates, and industry developments. Implements proactive compliance updates and ensures timely renewal of all permits and licenses.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Education & Experience

Bachelor's degree in Law, Commerce, International Trade, or related discipline required. Minimum 10 years of progressive leadership experience in SEZ/STPI compliance operations with demonstrated mastery of Indian EXIM policies, customs regulations, and foreign trade frameworks. Proven track record of leading high-performing compliance teams and managing complex regulatory portfolios across multiple locations.

Core Competencies

Deep technical expertise in SEZ/STPI regulations, customs procedures, SOFTEX processes, and DGFT policies. Strong strategic thinking abilities with demonstrated success in regulatory risk management and compliance optimization. Exceptional stakeholder management skills with experience engaging government authorities, senior executives, and cross-functional teams.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Advanced degree (Master's or higher) in International Trade, Law, Taxation, or related field. Professional certifications in EXIM operations, Customs procedures, or International Trade Compliance. Demonstrated proficiency with enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems and compliance management platforms. Experience implementing compliance automation tools and digital transformation initiatives.

COMPETENCIES FOR SUCCESS

• Executive presence and strategic communication abilities
• Change management and organizational transformation experience
• Strong business acumen and commercial awareness
• Analytical mindset with data-driven decision-making approach
• Ability to operate effectively in ambiguous, evolving regulatory environments
• Cross-cultural collaboration in pan-India operations

ABOUT JLL

JLL (NYSE: JLL) is a leading professional services firm specializing in real estate and investment management. We help clients buy, build, occupy, manage and invest in a variety of real estate assets. We are committed to shaping the future of real estate for a better world by using cutting-edge technology to create rewarding opportunities and amazing spaces.

JLL is an equal opportunity employer committed to building an inclusive and diverse workforce.