Trade compliance might not be the most thrilling topic—until it starts costing your company millions. That’s exactly what’s happening as tariffs shift overnight, companies scramble for answers, and supply chain leaders face an avalanche of confusion.
Most executives don’t want to deal with customs and compliance, and they didn’t have to for years. But now, it’s no longer a back-office function—it’s a front-and-center leadership challenge.
That’s where Jenae Ciecko, President and CEO of Copper Hill, comes in. With over 20 years in trade management, Jenae has seen it all—the confusion, the panic, the miscommunication—and she joins Jan Griffiths to talk about it.
Who owns trade compliance—finance, legal, or supply chain? Turns out, there’s no clear answer. And that’s part of the problem. Many don’t fully understand how trade compliance works. The moment new policies take effect, it’s not just about paying up—it’s about strategy, communication, and risk management.
What if a company just refuses to pay the tariffs? The answer? Not an option. Unlike supplier disputes or delayed payments, customs will always collect their money. The real challenge is who absorbs the cost.
Leaders and compliance teams speak different languages. The C-suite demands quick, clear answers, while compliance teams live in details. The result? Misinformation, missed opportunities, and costly mistakes.
Jenae emphasizes the importance of bridging this gap, ensuring executives ask the right questions, and creating a culture where compliance isn’t just a burden—it’s a strategic advantage.
Through it all, one truth remains: leadership is tested in moments of uncertainty. Those who thrive in this unpredictable era will be the ones who stay calm, communicate clearly, and prepare in advance.
Because when tariffs hit, the best leaders don’t just react—they take control.
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