Policy and Program Administrative Assistant

Position: Policy and Program Administrative Assistant
Organization: United States Council for International Business
Reports to: Senior Vice Presidents for Trade, Investment and Digital Policy, and for Tax
Location: Washington, DC Office

THE OPPORTUNITY – About USCIB

Founded in 1945, USCIB promotes open markets, competitiveness and innovation, sustainable development, and corporate responsibility, supported by international engagement and regulatory coherence.  Its focus is on international policy in the multilateral system, and its members include U.S.-based global companies and professional services firms from every sector, with operations in every region of the world. As the sole American representative of the International Chamber of Commerce, the International Organization of Employers and the Business and Industry Advisory Committee to the OECD, USCIB provides business views to the Administration and to policy makers and regulatory authorities worldwide and works to facilitate international trade and investment. In addition, USCIB serves as the National Guaranteeing Association for ATA Carnets, which allows temporary, tax and duty-free imports overseas for trade shows, commercial samples and professional equipment. More at www.uscib.org

POSITION SUMMARY

We are seeking a highly organized and proactive Administrative Assistant to provide comprehensive administrative support to the Senior Vice Presidents and the trade and digital policy as well as tax team on a variety of USCIB policy and program related activities. This also includes supporting the membership and policy staff with administrative tasks linked to membership engagement and development. The position would also be responsible for the procurement and management of office supplies, including but not limited to stationery, equipment, and other necessary items.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

Administrative support for USCIB’s policy committees, including trade, investment, customs, digital, agriculture and tax policy. Duties include:

  • preparation of materials for committee meetings (e.g., agendas, handouts, letters, forms, reports, participants lists, badges, etc.) and webinars; preparation, organization, and e-mail distribution of meeting notices/materials to committee members and coordination of e-mail responses of same; setting up virtual meetings; assist with logistical support of meetings, including registration and coffee/food service for participants in-house, and taking minutes and providing summaries of meetings for review.
  • Assist with documentation and follow-up actions from meetings, ensuring timely completion of tasks and deliverables.
  • Support USCIB’s SVPs for Trade, Investment and Digital Policy and for Tax including help with schedule, travel, expense reports, responding to some inquiries, and assisting with email distribution.
  • Provide administrative support to annual tax conference.
  • Support maintenance of relevant policy portions of the USCIB website as needed.
  • Enter and update committee member information in CRM software as needed, with ability to run up-to-date reports, rosters, and distribution lists for numerous active committees, and perform routine searches.
  • Support membership and policy staff with new member recruiting efforts and member retention activities.
  • Assist with other administrative tasks and projects as assigned.
  • Proactively manage office supplies, including working with office vendors.
  • Serve as principal point of contact for building management on matters related to the office maintenance, as well as serving as USCIB’s designated “fire marshal” for periodic fire drills.

QUALIFICATIONS/EXPERIENCE

  • Bachelor’s degree preferred, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Interest in international business policy issues or international relations a plus.
  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to multitask and prioritize competing demands effectively. Must be detail-oriented and have strong interpersonal, administrative, and organizational skills.
  • Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with a keen attention to detail.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and other relevant software applications.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and as part of a team.

SALARY AND BENEFITS

Salary and title are commensurate with qualifications and experience. The salary range for this role is between $55,000 and $65,000. USCIB offers a highly competitive compensation package that includes medical, dental and vision insurance, a 401(k)-retirement company matching program, generous paid time off, and the ability to participate in pre-tax transportation, and flexible spending account programs.

USCIB currently requires in-office work Tuesday – Thursday, with WFH option on Mondays and Fridays.

Apply Now

Applications will be accepted until April 5, 2024.

Note: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Thank you for your understanding.

Director International Tax Policy and Banking

Position: Director International Tax Policy and Banking
Organization: United States Council for International Business
Reports to: Vice President & International Tax Counsel
Location: Washington D.C.

THE OPPORTUNITY – About USCIB

Founded in 1945, USCIB promotes open markets, competitiveness and innovation, sustainable development, and corporate responsibility, supported by international engagement and regulatory coherence.  Its focus is on international policy in the multilateral system, and its members include U.S.-based global companies and professional services firms from every sector, with operations in every region of the world. As the sole American representative of the International Chamber of Commerce, the International Organization of Employers and the Business and Industry Advisory Committee to the OECD, USCIB provides business views to the Administration and to policy makers and regulatory authorities worldwide and works to facilitate international trade and investment. In addition, USCIB serves as the National Guaranteeing Association for ATA Carnets, which allows temporary, tax and duty-free imports overseas for trade shows, commercial samples and professional equipment. More at www.uscib.org

POSITION SUMMARY

The Director International Tax Policy and Banking will support the Vice President & International Tax Counsel on a variety of programs and projects involving the development and dissemination of USCIB tax policy positions, papers and meeting preparation and materials. The Director will support USCIB member engagement and development for the organization’s Tax committee and have the possibility to lead in defined international tax policy areas with the potential to expand responsibilities in the course of the role.  The Director will also oversee and manage the Banking Committee.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Lead policy expert and work product drafter on U.S. Congress, U.N., single country and developing countries portfolios. Support VP on OECD and U.S. government, and European (member state and European commission) tax policy portfolios.
  • Prepare and participate in internal USCIB planning meetings, webinars, Tax Committee meetings and events, and the annual OECD international tax conference.
  • Work with the Tax Committee leadership team and member companies to understand their tax policy needs and develop policy positions that support their interests.
  • Monitor and analyze tax policies and legislation in respective portfolios.
  • Conduct research and analysis to identify emerging tax policy issues and opportunities for advocacy.
  • Oversee and manage USCIB Banking Committee, working with committee leadership to engage with ICC Banking Commission and related partner organizations.
  • Support Banking Committee member priorities, including those regarding digitization of trade finance and promoting standardization of international banking and commercial practices.
  • Represent USCIB before government officials, advocacy groups, and other stakeholders to promote our members’ interests and the growth of international business.
  • Develop and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including government officials, business leaders, and advocacy groups.
  • Assist the membership department in new member and retention efforts by identifying potential new members, setting goals for annual recruitment, and nurturing relationships with existing members.

QUALIFICATIONS/EXPERIENCE

  • Advanced degree (e.g., JD) or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • 10 years of experience in international tax and/or international tax policy in the public and/or private sector, U.S. Congress, U.S. government, Big Four accounting or law firm or other advocacy organization. Demonstrated knowledge of global frameworks and institutions that influence the development of international tax policy. Some banking regulatory experience required.
  • Demonstrated ability to work independently, manage multiple projects against tight deadlines as well as work collaboratively in team settings.
  • Superior time-management skills with respect to setting priorities and managing multiple workflows against tight deadlines.
  • Strong written communication and advocacy skills.
  • International work experience and foreign language skills preferred.
  • Some international travel required.

SALARY AND BENEFITS

Salary and title are commensurate with qualifications and experience. The salary range for this role is between $150,000 and $175,000 per year. USCIB offers a highly competitive compensation package that includes medical, dental and vision insurance, a 401(k)-retirement company matching program, generous paid time off, and the ability to participate in pre-tax transportation/commuter benefit and flexible spending account programs.

USCIB currently requires in-office work Tuesday – Thursday, with WFH option on Mondays and Fridays.

Apply Now

Note: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Thank you for your understanding.

Director of ATA Carnet Claims

Position: Director of ATA Carnet Claims
Organization: United States Council for International Business
Reports to: Chief Operating Officer
Location: New York City

THE OPPORTUNITY – About USCIB

Founded in 1945, USCIB promotes open markets, competitiveness and innovation, sustainable development, and corporate responsibility, supported by international engagement and regulatory coherence.  Its focus is on international policy in the multilateral system, and its members include U.S.-based global companies and professional services firms from every sector, with operations in every region of the world. As the sole American representative of the International Chamber of Commerce, the International Organization of Employers and the Business and Industry Advisory Committee to the OECD, USCIB provides business views to the Administration and to policy makers and regulatory authorities worldwide and works to facilitate international trade and investment. In addition, USCIB serves as the National Guaranteeing Association for ATA Carnets, which allows temporary, tax and duty-free imports overseas for trade shows, commercial samples and professional equipment. More at www.uscib.org

POSITION SUMMARY

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced individual to fill the position of Director of ATA Carnets Claims. The successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing and managing claims related to all national and foreign issued carnets. Additionally, the Director will play a crucial role in liaising with CBP (Customs and Border Protection) ports in the United States on ATA Carnet issues and providing essential training to officers involved in the process.

The Director of ATA Carnets plays a vital role in ensuring smooth and compliant handling of ATA Carnet transactions, fostering positive relationships with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) ports, and promoting best practices throughout the organization. If you possess the necessary qualifications and are passionate about international trade and customs compliance, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Oversee and manage the entire claim process for both national and foreign issued ATA Carnets. This includes receiving, reviewing, and processing ATA Carnet claims in accordance with established guidelines and procedures.
  • Work closely with relevant parties (CBP, Holders, Service Providers, Foreign National Guaranteeing Associations) to resolve claims efficiently and effectively.
  • Serve as the primary point of contact for inquiries related to ATA Carnet claims and procedures. Provide expert guidance and support to internal staff, Customs officials, and other stakeholders on matters pertaining to ATA Carnets and claims resolution.
  • Develop and conduct training programs for U.S. Customs officials on the proper and practical use of ATA Carnets and claims procedures. Educate Customs personnel on the importance of adhering to ATA Carnet regulations and best practices to minimize discrepancies and streamline claim resolution processes.
  • Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations, laws, and standards governing ATA Carnets and claims processes. Stay informed about changes in regulations and update internal procedures accordingly to always maintain compliance.
  • Identify opportunities for process improvement and efficiency enhancement within the ATA Carnet claims process. Implement initiatives to streamline procedures, reduce errors, and enhance overall effectiveness.
  • Directly manage and mentor a team of claims specialists. Provide guidance, support, and professional development opportunities to ensure the team’s success and individual growth.
  • Maintain accurate documentation of all ATA Carnet claims and related activities. Generate regular reports and analysis to monitor claim trends, identify patterns, and assess overall performance.
  • Prepare reports and analysis as needed to support decision-making and compliance efforts.
  • Stay updated on international trade regulations, industry trends, and developments related to ATA Carnets.
  • Participate in relevant workshops, conferences, and professional development opportunities to enhance knowledge and skills.

QUALIFICATIONS/EXPERIENCE

  • Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, International Trade, Customs Compliance, or related field.
  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in customs compliance, trade operations, or related areas, with a focus on ATA Carnets.
  • Proven experience in staff management, including mentoring, coaching, and performance evaluation.
  • In-depth knowledge of ATA Carnet regulations, procedures, and best practices.
  • Strong understanding of CBP regulations and processes related to customs clearance and international trade.
  • Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
  • Proven ability to effectively manage projects, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines.
  • Detail-oriented with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
  • Demonstrated experience in providing training and facilitating workshops or seminars.
  • Ability to work collaboratively with internal teams, external partners, and government agencies.

SALARY AND BENEFITS

Salary and title are commensurate with qualifications and experience. The salary range for this role is between $85,000 and $115,000 per year, plus bonus. USCIB offers a highly competitive compensation package that includes medical, dental and vision insurance, a 401(k)-retirement company matching program, generous paid time off, and the ability to participate in pre-tax transportation, and flexible spending account programs.

USCIB currently requires in-office work Tuesday – Thursday, with WFH option on Mondays and Fridays.

Apply Now

Applications will be accepted until April 19, 2023.

Note: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Thank you for your understanding.

USCIB Hosts ICC ATA Carnet Administrative Committee Meeting 

Last week, USCIB hosted the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) World Chambers Federation (WCF) ATA Carnet Administrative Committee (ATAC) in New York.

Chaired by USCIB Chief Operating Officer Declan Daly and Henk Wit (Netherlands Chamber of Commerce (KVK), the discussions revolved around important topics such as the 2024 ATA Carnet work plan, preparation for the global transition of e-ATA (digital ATA Carnet), ATAC composition, global issuing and claims statistics, new members’ accession, and ATA Carnet administration.  

This biannual meeting gathered participants from 13 national guaranteeing associations. 

“USCIB was delighted to host this year’s spring ATAC meeting at USCIB’s NY office, particularly since it has been nearly a decade since we held a U.S.-based meeting,” said Daly. “I look forward to this year’s work plan and the exciting milestones we have already achieved this year, namely the first ever test processing of a digital ATA Carnet last month at JFK.” 

Last month, USCIB helped coordinate a highly successful U.S. digital ATA Carnet (e-ATA) test processing at John F. Kennedy Airport in collaboration with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Roanoke Insurance Group Inc. and Rock-it Cargo. This first e-ATA test in the United States was done in conjunction with the London Chamber of Commerce & Industry (LCCI) and UK Customs (HMRC), which processed the e-ATA for import at London’s Heathrow airport. 

USCIB Welcomes New Staff in Communications, Legal Affairs, Finance & Administration  

USCIB welcomed several new staff members across the New York and Washington DC offices over the past two weeks. 

Most recently, USCIB welcomed Anna Hughes as Vice President of Communications. Hughes has over twenty years’ experience in communications, marketing and public relations having held various positions at Twitter, BSA | The Software Alliance, American Composites Manufacturers Association (ACMA) and Ogilvy. Hughes will be based in the Washington office. 

Earlier this week, USCIB also welcomed Jason File as USCIB’s new Director of Legal Affairs, based in New York. Along with his Arbitration Committee responsibilities, File will also serve as General Counsel for USCIB. Prior to joining USCIB, File was a senior associate in the Arbitration group at Cooley LLP, focusing on high-stakes arbitration, including investor-state arbitration, international commercial arbitration, mass arbitration claims and corporate executive disputes. File’s previous positions include serving as a war crimes prosecutor at the UN International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia in The Hague, and an international arbitration associate at Wilmer Cutler Pickering Hale and Dorr LLP in London.  

Finally, Andrew Julia joined as the new Director of Finance & Administration. Andrew brings over 15 years of experience in financial management, accounting, and administration in the non-profit sector. He joins us from the Baryshnikov Arts Center, Inc. where he was the Director of Finance & Human Resources. Prior to this, Andrew worked at the American Federation of Musicians & Employer’s Pension Fund where he held various accounting and audit roles. He is a Certified Public Accountant and Certified Employee Benefit Specialist. Julia will work out of USCIB’s New York office.           

 

Rick Minor Testifies at House Committee on Ways and Means Subcommittee on Tax

L-R: Megan Funkhouser (Information Technology Industry Council), Rick Minor, Gary Sprague (Baker McKenzie), Daniel Bunn (Tax Foundation)

USCIB’s Tax Counsel Rick Minor testified on March 7 at the Hearing before the U.S. House Committee on Ways & Means Subcommittee on Tax, “Ensuring the Biden Administration Puts Americans First.”  It was the first Congressional hearing on the current Pillar One proposals of the OECD Two Pillar solution project.

“The message from the U.S. should be that discrimination against U.S. companies should not be permitted in any case,” emphasized Minor during his oral testimony. “Fiscal measures specifically targeted at U.S. multinationals should never be a legitimate tax policy choice in a stable international tax system.”

Minor also told the Subcommittee Members that a Pillar One solution that does not effectively eliminate double taxation in its application is not sustainable and that U.S. industry is concerned that the current design of Amount B falls short of the stated objectives of the OECD in its original blueprint.

Minor with Mike Kelly

“We can imagine a reality in which these rules can exist in some form, if the final rules stabilize the international tax system,” added Minor.

On behalf of USCIB, Minor encouraged the Biden administration and U.S. Congress to remain engaged in the OECD process.

House Committee on Ways and Means Tax Subcommittee Chairman Mike Kelly (PA-16) led the meeting before the 18 member Subcommittee. Minor’s testimony was one of four from the private sector; other witnesses included Megan Funkhouser, senior director of Policy, Tax and Trade at the Information Technology Industry Council, Gary Sprague, partner at Baker McKenzie and Daniel Bunn, president and CEO of the Tax Foundation.

USCIB Celebrates International Women’s Day and Joins UN in Calling for Continued Investment in Women 

New York, NY, March 8, 2024 — The United States Council for International Business (USCIB) celebrates International Women’s Day. USCIB also welcomes the United Nations’ 2024 theme of “Invest in women: Accelerate progress” and believes that investment in women is a human rights imperative.  

USCIB and its members have long championed the critical role of gender equality, support for female change-makers and implementation of gender-responsive financing. USCIB is also proud to be led by Whitney Baird, the first female President and CEO in the organization’s 79-year history, as of September 2023. 

“Through our engagement in the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), the International Organization of Employers (IOE) and Business at OECD (BIAC), we will continue to work with our business counterparts around the world to address gender equality barriers that continue to confront women and girls and to accelerate progress for women everywhere through adequate investment and effective policies,” said USCIB Director for Corporate Responsibility and Labor Affairs Ewa Staworzynska. 

About USCIB: 

USCIB promotes open markets, competitiveness and innovation, sustainable development, and corporate responsibility, supported by international engagement and regulatory coherence. Its members include U.S.-based global companies and professional services firms from every sector of our economy, with operations in every region of the world. As the U.S. affiliate of the International Chamber of Commerce, the International Organization of Employers and Business at OECD (BIAC), USCIB provides business views to policy makers and regulatory authorities worldwide and works to facilitate international trade and investment. More at www.uscib.org. 

USCIB Advocates for US Business Interests at OECD Responsible Business Conduct Events in Paris

Jose Arroyo

The OECD hosted its annual Forum on Due Diligence in the Garment and Footwear Sector late last month, along with a series of side events on responsible business conduct (RBC) workstreams. This year’s OECD Forum addressed various issues, with a particular focus on living wages and binding company-union agreements in due diligence processes.

In recent years, the OECD has intensified its work in RBC standards and guidance for companies. USCIB, with its in-person engagements and partnership with Business at OECD (BIAC), advocates to ensure that those workstreams, especially those closely related to labor affairs, are consistent with parallel initiatives in other international agencies, such as the International Labor Organization (ILO).

“It is critical that the OECD ensures that new standards are implementable on the ground,” said Jose Arroyo, policy manager for Corporate Responsibility and Labor Affairs at USCIB, who represented U.S. business at the OECD. Arroyo underscored the pioneering role of U.S. businesses in RBC practices and emphasized the importance of clear, concise, and implementable guidance for business. Some of the OECD work includes guidance on responsible purchasing practices and meaningful engagement with workers via due diligence.

Arroyo emphasized the importance of OECD cooperation with other non-OECD countries, particularly in high-risk geographical zones where divestment risks are prevalent. “Meaningful cooperation and implementable standards are essential, ultimately benefiting local communities”, he said.

USCIB will maintain its strong engagement with OECD RBC workstreams.

 

USCIB Joined Multi-Association Letter Opposing Expansion of WTO TRIPS Waiver 

USCIB co-signed a multi-association letter to the Biden Administration at the end of February strongly opposing the proposed expansion of the WTO TRIPS waiver to cover COVID-19 diagnostics and therapeutics. The letter was addressed to Secretary of State Antony Blinken, USTR Katherine Tai, Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo and White House Chief of Staff Jeffrey Zients.  

The letter advanced the same arguments USCIB made in its submission last year to the U.S. International Trade Commission (Investigation No. 332-596) on the TRIPS waiver extension: the extension would undermine innovation, global health security as well as research and development for products that are fundamental to fighting global crises. USCIB was deeply disappointed with the TRIPS waiver for COVID-19 vaccines announced at the WTO in June 2022. Extending the waiver to diagnostics and therapeutics would further erode international rule of law.

As such, USCIB welcomed the outcome at the 13th WTO Ministerial Conference in Abu Dhabi last week to table this proposal.  

For nearly 30 years, the WTO TRIPS Agreement has served its role well in providing the global legal architecture for supporting and driving innovation,” said USCIB Senior Vice President for Trade, Investment and Digital Policy Alice Slayton Clark. “The waiver extension would have represented a virtual death knell not only for the pharmaceutical industry but also for innovative industry writ large.” 

 

USCIB Represents US Business at 6th Session of the UN Environment Assembly  

Chris Olsen and Agnes Vinblad

The 6th Session of the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA-6) concluded on March 1 in Nairobi, Kenya. After extensive and, at times, challenging negotiations, Parties adopted 15 resolutions, two decisions and a Ministerial Declaration. According to USCIB Director of Environment & Sustainable Development Agnes Vinblad, UNEA-6 outcomes advance work on further strengthening cooperation for national implementation of multilateral environmental agreements, the sound management of chemicals and waste, enhanced regional cooperation on air pollution, solutions for strengthening water policies, combatting land degradation and more.

As the highest decision-making body on the environment, UNEA decisions shape the global policy agenda across all Multilateral Environmental Agreements (MEAs). This session of the Assembly was held under the theme “Effective, inclusive and sustainable multilateral actions to tackle climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution” with an overall focus on how to increase synergies between MEAs to solve the triple planetary crises.  

USCIB holds official observer status to the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) and has been active participants in the UNEA process since its inception in 2014. The USCIB delegation to UNEA-6 included Vinblad, USCIB Policy Manager for Trade & Regulation Chris Olsen and USCIB member company Enveda Biosciences’ Director of Policy and Development Tendai Chisow.

Joining over 5,600 people from across 190 countries at UN Environment Programme (UNEP) headquarters in Nairobi, USCIB advocated for constructive business considerations and engaged through the UNEP Business and Industry Major Group – the formal UNEP constituency group for business.  

“The strong outcomes from UNEA-6 yet again shows the critical importance of multilateralism,” said Vinblad. “In a world fraught by conflict and economic uncertainty, the ability of Member States to come together in agreement to work together towards solving some of our most urgent global challenges certainly sends a strong signal on the key role that Multilateral Environmental Agreements continues to play.”   

The 2024 Assembly also included the first ever MEA Day on February 28, which highlighted the role of agreements such as the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and the Paris Agreement.