Will Dickerson
Ventura,CA
Summary
Experienced leader specializing in AI and process automation for trade compliance. Strong skills in regulatory compliance, duty optimization, and data analysis. Proven track record in building effective teams and leveraging challenges for strategic gains. Noted for collaborative leadership and application of lean principles to build high performing trade compliance programs.
Overview
22
22
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Trade Compliance Principal
Patagonia
Ventura, USA
01.2015 - Current
- Pioneered AI tool adoption for compliance operations, implementing multiple AI agents to enhance visibility and automate workflows.
- Eliminated $50K in annual software costs by building in-house automated query and entry audit systems, improving accuracy and speed.
- Designed data infrastructure supporting UFLPA risk assessment and internal traceability programs using modern analytics techniques.
- Generated $7-8M in average annual duty savings through advanced optimization programs, including product/tariff engineering and strategic sourcing.
- Transformed complex regulatory requirements into competitive advantages through innovative problem-solving and technical expertise.
- Directed C-TPAT Trade Compliance Program, maintaining highest security standards through comprehensive risk management systems.
- Oversaw WRO/Forced Labor communications with U.S. Customs, establishing robust data infrastructure for compliance and traceability.
- Developed comprehensive trade compliance manuals and training materials, including detailed desk procedures for stakeholder needs.
Sr. Trade Compliance Analyst
REI
Kent, USA
05.2010 - 01.2015
- Implemented EDI-enabled 3PL software to audit 100% of entries for classification, MID, and country of origin, saving 100 man-hours monthly and eliminating human error risk
- Designed database integrating PEA submissions with reconciliation entries, achieving $5K annual savings and eliminating 60 man-hours of manual data entry
- Launched company's first drawback program, securing approval within 3 months and yielding $56K in immediate duty refunds
- Served as in-house consultant on tariff engineering opportunities, free trade agreements, trade data reporting, and supply chain security programs
- Created executive-level metrics and reporting tools on country sourcing trends for targeted product categories
- Taught compliance-related classes to stakeholders across Sourcing, Logistics, Finance, CSR, Fair Labor, and Distribution Centers
- Designed comprehensive training curriculum for all areas of import compliance, onboarding new employees to full productivity within 3 months
Trade Compliance Analyst
Brooks Sports Inc.
Seattle, USA
01.2006 - 05.2010
- Expanded duty drawback program scale and automation by 50%, generating $40K in annual refunds.
- Implemented ISF compliance program, achieving 100% accuracy two years ahead of deadline, avoiding $5K penalties per violation.
- Established risk-based entry summary audit system, reducing audit times by 40% while enhancing focus on high-risk vendors.
- Contributed to C-TPAT Trade Compliance membership by drafting risk management procedures and updating vendor guides.
- Managed post-entry program, realizing $86K in refunds through strategic PEAs for MTB-eligible footwear.
International Trade Compliance Analyst
U.S. Commerce Department
Washington, USA
04.2004 - 12.2006
- Administered complex anti-dumping duty cases assessing Chinese exporter compliance with U.S. regulations.
- Synthesized trade data and corporate financial records to calculate accurate anti-dumping duty rates.
- Conducted operational audits of Chinese exporters, reviewing corporate structures and financial documentation.
- Contributed as integral team member in largest wooden bedroom furniture investigation to date.
- Developed databases to track and organize extensive case-related information efficiently.
- Issued liquidation instructions to U.S. Customs.
- Drafted policy and procedures for archiving proprietary business information, preserving over 1,000 man-hours of analysis.
Education
MBA -
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
01.2026
Licensed Customs Broker -
01.2011
BA - International Studies
University of Washington
01.2003
Skills
- AI tools and automation
- Regulatory compliance and interpretation
- Team leadership and development
- Process optimization
- Project management
- Risk management strategies
- Stakeholder engagement and communication
- Data analysis and visualization
- Training development and delivery
- Budget administration and expense control
- Technical writing and documentation
- Audit management and compliance reviews
- Strategic sourcing and planning
- Microsoft Office Suite
Languages
Spanish
Professional
Certification
Licensed Customs Broker
Affiliations
Fitness and Well-Being Enthusiast
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Trade Compliance Principal
Patagonia
01.2015 - Current
Sr. Trade Compliance Analyst
REI
05.2010 - 01.2015
Trade Compliance Analyst
Brooks Sports Inc.
01.2006 - 05.2010
International Trade Compliance Analyst
U.S. Commerce Department
04.2004 - 12.2006
MBA -
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Licensed Customs Broker -
BA - International Studies
University of Washington