THE SPEAKERS

Mallory Alexander International ​Logistics

Ashley Amidon is the Executive Director of the International Wood Products ​Association. Previously, she served as the Vice President of Public Policy for the ​National Pest Management Association where she headed up the public policy team ​as a registered lobbyist handling all federal legislative issues, as well as the Treasurer ​of NPMA’s Political Action Committee. Her issues portfolio focused on pesticides, ​tax, public health and small business issues. She simultaneously served as the ​Executive Director of the North Carolina Pest Management Association, which had ​250 member companies.

Prior to the pest management industry, she worked as a lobbyist at the National ​Stone Sand and Gravel Association, handling environmental issues. She began her ​association career at the International Wood Products Association, where she was ​the lobbyist and PAC administrator, focusing primarily on environmental and trade ​issues. She began her career in DC as a political fundraiser and has also worked a ​series of political campaigns doing GOTV work, fundraising and scheduling.

She holds a B.A. in History and International Affairs from George Mason University in ​Virginia and an M.A. in International Affairs from University of Hull in the UK. She also ​holds a CAE.

Luis F. Arandia, Jr. is an International Trade and Customs attorney with Barnes & ​Thornburg in Washington, DC. Luis partners with clients to deliver responsive ​representation in a wide range of international trade matters, including customs and ​import compliance, export controls, economic sanctions, and trade remedies. Luis ​represents clients before federal agencies that administer international trade ​regulations, including U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Bureau of Industry ​and Security (BIS), Census Bureau (Census), U.S. Directorate of Defense Trade ​Controls (DDTC), and the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC). Luis also has deep ​experience in advocating for clients under agency enforcement, whether in the ​context of investigations, penalties, or voluntary disclosures.

Rimon Partner Sandra Bell represents clients on regulatory procedures relating to customs tariff and ​import issues including securing and responding to decisions on prospective and current import ​transactions, international trade policy and regulatory programs, and border security and trade ​enforcement programs.

Ms. Bell has over three decades of customs, international trade and border security experience at U.S. ​Customs and Border Protection (CBP) where she held several positions most recently, as Deputy ​Assistant Commissioner, Office of International Trade (OT) and as Executive Director of Regulations and ​Rulings, OT. In the aftermath of 9/11, Ms. Bell also served as Acting Deputy Assistant Commissioner, ​Deputy Assistant Commissioner and Acting Assistant Commissioner for the Office of Regulations and ​Rulings, where she spearheaded development of programs to improve delivery of services in ​international trade regulatory programs that enhanced border security and trade enforcement, such as ​the Customs On line Rulings Search System (CROSS), the online IPR recordation system (IPRS) and the ​advance electronic transmission of cargo security (Trade Act) and passenger information (APIS). During ​this crucial time in US history, Ms. Bell led the development of watershed decisions, national policies, ​regulations, training and outreach programs that effected transition of the agency into a new legal and ​cultural environment.

Since entering private practice, Ms. Bell provides key customs law advice to a variety of clients, ​including major manufacturers and distributors of imported and exported finished goods and raw ​materials such as lumber, chemicals, textile and apparel/accessories; automotive vehicles and parts; ​food products and ingredients; software, industrial coating systems, medical supplies, energy products, ​luxury consumer goods and professional use products. She also assesses corporate customs compliance ​independently or as part of the firm’s due diligence reviews for mergers and acquisitions transactions. ​Specific customs areas in which Ms. Bell has provided advice have included: country of origin ​(determination and labeling); tariff classification; customs valuation; NAFTA/USMCA, other FTAs, and ​other US duty preference programs; customs drawback; bonds and bonded warehouses, foreign trade ​zones, import bans such as the US Forced Labor law; intellectual property rights import restrictions, ​restrictions by other US government agencies.

Anna Benevente holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from The College of ​William and Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia. Ms. Benevente has over 15 years of ​analytical research experience. As a Senior Regulatory Specialist at Registrar Corp, ​she has been assisting companies with U.S. FDA regulations since 2009. She has ​researched thousands of products to determine whether they meet FDA ​requirements for compliance. In addition, Mrs. Benevente has conducted multiple ​seminars for trade and customs broker associations. Her areas of expertise include ​compliance with the Food Safety Modernization Act (“FSMA”); Import Alerts ​("DWPE") and detention assistance; product formulation requirements; and labeling ​for cosmetics, over-the-counter drugs, beverages, food, dietary supplements, animal ​feed, and medical devices. Mrs. Benevente is based at Registrar Corp's headquarters ​in Hampton, Virginia, where she manages a team of 10 Regulatory Specialists.

Registrar Corp provides compliance services for manufacturers, exporters, and ​importers regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Services for the ​cosmetics, food and beverage, drug, and medical device industries are offered on a ​fixed-fee basis. The Registrar Corp team is over 250 people strong, with about 170 ​employees based in the U.S. and include former FDA officials, scientists, and ​Regulatory Specialists.

Kim Calicott is the Export Compliance Manager at Mallory Alexander ​International Logistics, LLC, where she has been a part of the team since 2003. ​With a focus on managing and maintaining the company's export compliance, ​Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (CTPAT), and ISO programs, Kim is ​dedicated to ensuring efficient and compliant shipments. Through active ​participation in industry committees and associations, such as the COAC Export ​Modernization Working Group and the NCBFAA, Kim shares her passion for ​compliance and international logistics. Currently serving as the Chair of the ​NCBFAA Transportation Committee, Kim is committed to identifying solutions for ​challenges impacting the industry.

Kim Campbell is the President of "mkmarin trade services inc." a customs ​brokerage, trade consulting and software firm she founded in 2007. She is a ​graduate of the University of Toronto and brings to her position 30 years of ​experience from working in executive, managerial and technical leadership ​positions in both government and the private sector. She is a graduate of the ​Institute of Corporate Director and U of T Rotman DEP program for corporate ​directors including the ICD.D designation. She holds the CCS (Certified Customs ​Specialist) in both Canada and the United States and is also a CTCS (Certified ​Trade Compliance Specialist). She was the Chair of the Canadian Society of ​Customs Brokers and has served on the Board of Directors of the International ​Federation of Customs Brokers. She is the current Chair of the Canadian ​Association of Importers and Exporters, I.E. Canada.She is a member of Canada ​Customs Border Agency (CBSA) Revenue Management Advisory Board (ARMAB) ​and has participated on North American Single Window Working Groups for CBP ​and CBSA. She represents I.E. Canada in several Canadian government ​consultative committees including Canada’s CUSMA/USMCA/T-MEC SME Working ​Group. Ms. Campbell is a frequent speaker at industry and government forums in ​Canada and the United States. She is a current Portraits of Giving honoree for the ​City of Markham that celebrates giving in the community.

Michael Cerny is Chief Legal Officer for Charter Brokerage, LLC, a Berkshire ​Hathaway company providing full service customs brokerage and specializing in duty ​drawback. Charter files more duty drawback than any other company in the United ​States. Mr. Cerny is an attorney with over 30 years of experience in customs and ​international trade matters, with extensive experience in duty drawback law and ​practice. He is admitted to the U.S. Court of International Trade and is a member of ​the Customs & International Trade Bar Association, the American Bar Association ​Section of International Law & Practice, the New York State Bar Association, and the ​Association of the Bar of the City of New York. Mr. Cerny is a member of the U.S. ​Customs & Border Protection (“CBP”) Trade Support Network (“TSN”) and was ​selected by CBP to serve as a TSN Trade Ambassador as well as on its Trade ​Leadership Council. He is also the Chair for the TSN Drawback Committee and leads ​the TSN Drawback Working Group. In addition to his TSN roles, Mr. Cerny serves on ​the Board of Governors for the American Association of Exporters & Importers and is ​Co-Chair of AAEI’s Drawback and Duty Deferral Committee. He also serves as the ​Chair of the Drawback Committee for the National Customs Brokers & Forwarders ​Association of America. Mr. Cerny received a Bachelor of Arts degree from the ​University at Albany, where he also played varsity lacrosse for the Albany Great ​Danes. He received his J.D. degree from Albany Law School. Mr. Cerny writes and ​speaks frequently on customs and trade issues, including drawback.

Al Dewar has grown over a career spanning more than 4 decades all with GHY ​International where is currently EVP. Est. 1901, and a Platinum Level Best ​Managed Company, GHY International prides itself on embracing new ​technologies and values you'd expect from one of North America's longest ​serving family owned and operated customs brokers.

Al currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Canadian Society of ​Customs Brokers (CSCB) and the Canada Association of Importers and Exporters ​(ieCanada)

Board Certified International Attorney considered an expert in international law ​by the Florida Bar. Proud to join an elite group of Board Certified International ​attorneys in Florida. Founder of Diaz Trade Law (www.diaztradelaw.com), ​assisting clients with issues relating to the import and export of merchandise to ​and from the United States.

Experienced in resolving regulatory issues with Federal agencies including the ​United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP), the United States Food and ​Drug Administration (FDA), the United States Department of Homeland Security ​(DHS), the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), the Alcohol and Tobacco ​Trade and Tax Bureau (TTB) as well as other Federal agencies. I regularly assist ​clients in resolving the following CBP issues - seizure, penalty, and liquidated ​damages cases, prior disclosures, valuation and classification disputes as well as ​free trade agreement verification's.

Jim Farrell is a Managing Principal within EPIC’s Transportation and Logistics ​Practice. He is primarily responsible for international business development and ​leads a growing team of producers across the U.S. Jim is a licensed insurance ​broker with over 15 years’ experience specializing in Cargo Insurance, ​International and Domestic Transportation Liability Insurance, U.S. Customs and ​Transportation Bonds, Truck Insurance and other related lines. Jim was a 2015 ​recipient of Business Insurance’s 40 Under 40 Broker Award. This award honors ​the top 40 insurance brokers under the age of 40 across the United States. Jim ​has a B.A. from the Eli Broad College of Business at Michigan State University.

Experienced Financial Analyst with a demonstrated history of working in the ​consumer goods industry. Skilled in Trend/Root Cause Analysis, Negotiation, ​Coaching, and Communication. Work very closely with both internal and external ​partners in the supply chain, finance, and logistics field. Strong business ​development professional with a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with ​an emphasis in finance.

Licensed United States Customs Broker: U.S. Customs Brokers are individuals ​that have been licensed by Customs and border protection to conduct customs ​business on behalf of others.

Licensed Customs brokers are considered experts in importation and exportation ​compliance.

- President of Global Alliance Solutions LLC, a firm specializing in US customs ​brokerage services, warehousing and distribution as well as consulting, legal and ​compliance services in Mexico and the United States.

- US Trade Compliance Manager for Nidec Motor Corporation, overseeing Trade ​compliance for the multiple facilities across America, duties included country of ​origin marking, HTSUS determination, NAFTA/ USMCA qualification, US customs ​broker performance, valuation, denied party screening among others.

-Branch Manager of the McAllen / Brownsville office of Daniel B. Hastings Inc. ​Licensed Customs Brokers, a company with over 75 years of experience in ​Customs Brokerage and Warehousing / Distribution services; responsibilities ​include Manage import, export and warehousing operations for McAllen and ​Brownsville, Team building and Training, Compliance, Business Development.

Mrs. Charlye Hebert is the Director of Operations and Licensed Customs Broker ​at Bertling Logistics, Inc. in Houston, Texas. With a decade of experience at ​Bertling, Charlye has extensive knowledge of managing complex oil & gas and ​energy projects, ensuring the seamless movement of goods across the world. In ​addition to her responsibilities at Bertling, Charlye serves as a director for the ​Houston Customs Brokers and Freight Forwarders Association. In this capacity, ​she contributes to the advancement of the freight forwarding community, ​advocating for best practices and professional development in the Greater ​Houston Region.

Lisa Hennessy is the Vice President of Avalon’s Central Region and is responsible for ​overseeing the region’s sales and account management functions. She also manages ​Avalon’s Canadian operations which are conducted through Avalon Risk Management ​(Canada) Inc. Lisa has worked for Avalon for over 15 years and has held several management ​positions which have contributed to her well-rounded resume of experience.

Lisa’s prior roles include supervising Avalon’s Centralized Bond Unit where she worked ​directly with clients and CBP to process US Customs bonds and she also supervised ​Avalon’s Managing General Agent (MGA) unit where she managed the underwriting team for ​Avalon’s Combined Transit Liability and Property and Casualty programs. She was then ​promoted to Regional Vice President for Avalon’s Midwest territory before assuming her ​current position as Vice President of the Central Region. Lisa also obtained her Registered ​Insurance Brokers of Ontario (RIBO) license when Canadian Transportation business and ​Canadian Customs Bonds were added to her realm of responsibility.

Lisa joined the Chicago Customs Brokers and Freight Forwarder Association Board of ​Directors as a non-voting member in 2018. Lisa is involved in various industry related trade ​associations including the International Trade Association of Greater Chicago, International ​Air Cargo Association of Chicago, Detroit Customs Brokers and Freight Forwarders ​Association, Transportation Intermediary Association and Canadian International Freight ​Forwarders Association.

In her free time, Lisa likes to spend time with family and friends, preferably outside in warm ​weather! She is a huge sports fan and enthusiastic supporter of Chicago sports teams.

Focused, highly detailed, and ambitious trade compliance professional with over ​12 years of experience preventing, assessing and mitigating risk within U.S. ​import/export and global trade compliance regulation. Currently representing a ​multinational manufacturer providing services across eight diverse markets in ​100+ countries, I partner with key stakeholders from all business units and roles ​to scale global compliance processes, advise executive leadership on current and ​forecasted regulations, and embed risk prevention and mitigation strategy into ​corporate compliance culture.

Curated industry expertise across the following sectors: agricultural ​commodities/products/equipment, industrial goods and manufacturing, utility & ​telecommunications infrastructure, solar, automotive, consumer electronics, ​outdoor recreation, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, human and animal food ​and animal by-products, meat and poultry, and animal health and veterinary ​devices.

Extensive experience managing global project teams and service providers to ​drive scalable process improvement and cost reduction programs.

Donna Kavanaugh is a Compliance Manger at A. N. Deringer, Inc., with a focus on ​U.S. export laws and regulations. She is heavily involved in the preparation of ​export training and risk management programs for Deringer.

Donna obtained her individual Customhouse broker license in 1996, and she is ​also a Certified US Export Compliance Officer, Certified Customs Specialist and a ​Certified Export Specialist. She is the Vice Chair of the National Customs Brokers ​and Forwarders Association of America (NCBFAA) Export Compliance ​Subcommittee and actively participates in many working groups on this ​committee, including being the leading the Vehicle Export Working Group.

Alan is a partner at GDLSK. He assists his clients in structuring their transactions ​in order to minimize customs duties, ensure regulatory compliance and eliminate ​customs penalty exposure. He has extensive experience in managing compliance ​reviews and developing strategies to maximize import opportunities. He is ​experienced in handling complex investigations, audits and penalty matters. He ​also provides guidance on regulatory and legislative proposals that impact his ​clients' businesses.

The focus of Alan's practice is the development of strategic solutions to maximize ​the customs and tax opportunities attendant to his clients' international ​transactions. He travels frequently to meet with clients and the parties they do ​business with in order to facilitate the resolution of his clients' interests.

Alan is a licensed customs broker and lectures on issues relating to customs ​valuation, import strategy and regulatory compliance. He also serves as Customs ​Counsel to the National Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association of America.

Bilingual, board certified attorney with diverse domestic and overseas legal ​experience, substantial project management experience, specialized expertise on ​both the practice and policy sides of the international trade equation, and a ​demonstrated capacity for interdisciplinary analysis of either a qualitative or ​quantitative nature. Professional formation reflects a balanced mix of law ​practice, IGO consulting, scholarly research, and entrepreneurial experience. ​Committed to helping importers, exporters, brokers, forwarders, and sureties ​navigate the compliance and enforcement issues which characterize the ​contemporary trade environment so that they can, in turn, operate more ​securely, efficiently, and profitably in the global economy.

Oliver is an Attorney at GKG Law focusing on trade compliance and national security ​regulations administered by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), the Bureau of ​Industry & Security (BIS), the Office of Antiboycott Compliance (OAC), the Directorate ​of Defense Trade Controls (DDTC), the Census Bureau, Customs and Border Protection ​(CBP), and the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN).

Oliver focuses his practice on helping multi-national corporations, small businesses, ​non-profits, and individuals who are facing issues relating to U.S. economic sanctions, ​anti-money laundering, and export control compliance and enforcement matters. This ​includes developing compliance programs, general counseling, filing for advisory ​opinions or interpretative guidance, filing for licenses, and representing companies in ​enforcement matters. He also draws upon his knowledge of corporate and ​transactional law to craft compliance solutions that make sense in the context of ​clients’ business.

In addition, Oliver works with GKG Law’s Associations Practice Group on data privacy ​matters. Oliver advises trade associations, tax-exempt organizations, and for-profit ​corporations on issues involving data privacy and the European Commission’s General ​Data Protection Regulation (“GDPR”). Since the GDPR went into effect on May 25, 2018, ​Oliver has helped U.S. associations and other international companies assess risks and ​current compliance with the GDPR, develop data privacy compliance programs, draft ​and negotiate data protection addendums to contracts with third parties, draft privacy ​policies and terms of use, implement changes in how data is collected and processed, ​and comply with the U.S.-EU Privacy Shield Framework maintained by the Department ​of Commerce. Oliver has also advised associations on a range of fact-specific GDPR ​issues.

Oliver is licensed to practice in Virginia and the District of Columbia.

David is an international trade professional and licensed US customs broker ​specializing in import compliance, export controls, economic sanctions, and anti-​corruption matters. His work focuses on designing and managing audits, ​investigations, and compliance reviews predicated on a risk-based approach that ​leverages large and complex data sets to optimize effectiveness and efficiency. ​He assists clients with developing, enhancing, and implementing trade ​compliance programs, automating trade-related activities, and integrating tools ​into existing company systems. David regularly trains companies’ internal audit ​departments on trade-related areas. David also attends agency and ​congressional meetings on behalf of clients, monitors regulatory and legislative ​issues, performs due diligence in merger and acquisition transactions, and assists ​clients with Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and False Claims Act matters. He has ​worked with numerous industries including: textiles and apparel, automotive, ​consumer products, life sciences, and defense contractors.

Obtained his Bachelor's Degree in Law from the ITESM, Monterrey Campus in 1997 and ​obtained a Master's Degree in International Commerce Regulation from the University ​of Arizona in 1999. Provides counseling on various legal matters relating to ​international business. His widest experience centers on the interpretation and ​application of trade agreements with the United States, Canada, the European Union, ​Colombia and Venezuela, Chile, Israel and others. His practice includes consulting and ​litigation in customs, regulations and non-tariff restrictions, international commercial ​transactions, foreign investment and regulation of export programs, including the ​IMMEX program. Luis worked at Basham, Ringe y Correa and Baker & McKenzie in the ​areas of international trade and customs. He currently has over 20 years of experience.

Before starting his private practice, Luis was a professional researcher on topics ​relating to unfair practices in international trade, foreign investment and customs at the ​National Law Center for Inter-American Free Trade in Tucson, Arizona, USA, as well as at ​the Legal Center for Inter-American trade of the ITESM, Monterrey Campus. He has ​given classes on international trade regulations, comparative law of international trade, ​NAFTA, customs law and international economic law as professor at private and public ​universities in Mexico.

Luis has published several studies and articles on international trade, NAFTA, customs ​topics and investment in legal magazines in the US, Canada and Mexico. He has been a ​speaker in multiple forums and conferences at the national and international levels.

He is a member of the Mexican Bar Association, the U.S. Mexico Bar Association ​(USMBA), the Mexican Institute of Foreign Trade Executives and of the International ​Section of the American Bar Association.

Schulz Trade Law PLLC is a solution-focused law firm that thoughtfully leads ​corporate clients through the regulatory challenges of international commerce. ​Our seasoned trade attorneys and professionals have a unique depth of ​experience specifically in export and import compliance and enforcement ​matters. Representative industries include: aerospace, oil and gas, machinery, ​automotive, healthcare, transportation, software, and nonprofit organizations. ​Fortune 500 companies and other global organizations trust our team to design ​forward-looking strategies founded on proven capabilities.

Brittany McCormick is Avalon’s Operational Support Manager. She has been in ​the insurance industry since 2000 and joined Avalon in 2013 as a Surety ​Representative in our Centralized Bond Unit. A year later she transferred to our ​National Accounts department as Customer Service Representative, later being ​promoted to Account Manager.

Prior to joining Avalon, Brittany worked for Disney in various positions, where she ​honed her excellent customer service skills. This along with her industry ​knowledge led to Brittany’s promotion to Team Lead and now as Client ​Relationship Manager. Brittany provides internal and external product training, ​internal compliance matters, conducts webinars on industry topics, and more.

Brittany is a licensed insurance producer and has obtained her Certified ​Insurance Service Representative and Transportation Risk Insurance Professional ​designations. She has a Bachelor of Science degree in Broadcast Journalism from ​the from University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign.

Experienced Duty Drawback Manager with a demonstrated history of working in ​the logistics and supply chain industry. Skilled in Freight, Sales, Customer ​Relationship Management (CRM), and Management.

Erin Otto is the National Policy Manager for the Lacey Act Program for USDA-APHIS-​Plant Protection and Quarantine (PPQ) in Riverdale, MD. She is responsible for providing ​internal and external leadership to ensure that the programmatic actions and activities ​of the Lacey Act program are continually monitored, harmonized, and improved to ​achieve program goals. Ms. Otto leads strategic program planning, establishes national ​program objectives and performances measures, and adjusts policy based on program ​information. Ms. Otto coordinates the response to issues such as congressional inquiries ​and environmental concerns and seeks to manage opportunities for internal and external ​partnerships, alliances, coalitions to support the goals of the Lacey Act Program.

In 2005, Ms. Otto started her APHIS career as a Training Technician at APHIS-PPQ’s ​Professional Development Center (PDC). In 2007, she became a PPQ Officer/Instructor at ​the PDC and transitioned to a Training Specialist. Ms. Otto has taught and created ​training for several major PDC curricula including the Customs and Border Protection ​Agricultural Specialist (CBPAS) Academy and PPQ technical training. In 2017, she became ​a National Policy Manager with Emergency and Domestic Programs focusing on new pest ​evaluation, the Federally Recognized State Managed Phytosanitary (FRSMP) Program, ​and the Deregulation Evaluation of Established Pests (DEEP) process. Most recently, she ​served as National Policy Manager for the Ralstonia solanacearum race 3 biovar 2 ​emergency response in 2020 and for the Spotted Lanternfly Program from 2020 until ​2022. For the Ralstonia response, the subsequent eradication efforts covered over 650 ​facilities in 44 states and maintained the $3.17 billion potato market. Her achievements ​have merited many awards over the years, including the APHIS Administrator’s Award, ​the PPQ Safeguarding Award, and the USDA Under Secretary’s Award. Erin graduated ​with a B.S in Forestry from the University of the South in Sewanee, Tennessee and a M.S. ​in Natural Resources and Environmental Science from the University of Illinois in ​Champaign-Urbana.

Thanks for taking a moment to read my bio. I'm currently leading sales and ​marketing for Deep Cognition, and I have a strong background in growth strategy ​across a variety of industries.

AI is at a clear inflection point, and Deep Cognition is well-positioned to lead the ​charge to augment human capacity through the application of novel AI solutions ​within high-complexity, highly-regulated use cases.

We’re laser-focused on helping Freight Forwarders, Customs Brokers, and ​Government Agencies use our PaperEntry solution to free up time for their teams ​to focus on what matters most: their customers and citizens.

Want to chat or learn more about Deep Cognition? Feel free to reach out - I'd love ​to connect.

Damon founded the Customs and International Trade Services (CITS) group within the

firm’s International Tax practice in 2019. With 35 years of experience helping

multinational companies navigate the complex rules governing the cross-border

movement of goods and services, he now serves as the Technical Practice Leader for the

firm’s CITS team to support their mission of providing end-to-end global consulting

services for all aspects of import/export planning and compliance.

Over his lengthy career, Damon has assisted clients with all aspects of customs and

international trade issues. He is especially renowned for his insights in harmonizing

transfer pricing policies and customs valuation requirements as part of designing in-

house customs and trade compliance programs. Damon’s other areas of expertise include

country of origin determinations, free trade agreements qualification, and customs

controversy matters (audits, Prior Disclosures, Protests, etc.)

In addition, Damon advises clients on export compliance and exports controls, often in

the context of government contracts under the Trade Agreements Act. He has worked

with many companies in filing Voluntary Self Disclosures with, e.g., the Bureau of

Industry & Security (Commerce Dept.), the Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (State

Dept.), and the Office of Foreign Assets Control (Treasury Dept.).

Prior to running his own firm from 2006-2018, Damon spent 13 years with a Big Four firm

as the National Director of the firm’s customs consulting practice. He has experience in

the legislative and judicial branches of the federal government, beginning his career as a

law clerk to the Hon. R. Kenton Musgrave at the U.S. Court of International Trade.

Damon was also an associate in the Washington, D.C. office of the Atlanta-based law firm

of Kilpatrick & Cody (now Kilpatrick Townsend).

Damon is a former Federal Judge-designate of the United States (having been nominated

to the US Court of International Trade in 2005). He is an adjunct professor at Emory

University School of Law where he teaches “Customs Law” based on the book he co-

authored -- the only U.S. law school casebook ever published in this field. He has written

countless articles over his career and is an accomplished public speaker on the topic of

international trade policy and customs planning. Damon was the keynote speaker at the

50th anniversary of the Denver World Trade Center in 2023 and the first World Customs

Organization summit on transfer pricing and customs valuation in 2007.

Kelly is a licensed customhouse broker and trade compliance specialist who has been ​working in the supply chain field for over thirty years. Kelly assists companies in managing ​their import and export trade activity, CTPAT security, and develop inhouse training ​programs.

Kelly is the Chief Operating Officer of Blue Tiger International and earned her bachelor’s ​degree in Organizational Management from St. Joseph’s University.

Kelly is a specialist in both import and export operations, security, compliance, logistics, ​and supply chain management.

I am a founding partner of ROBERTS & KEHAGIARAS LLP (“R&K LLP”), with more ​than thirty years of experience in trade and transportation. I am a former ​international trade executive and licensed customs broker. I have more twenty ​years of litigation experience representing importers, exporters, customs brokers, ​non-vessel operating common carriers, indirect air carrier, and motor carriers. I ​advise companies on entity creation, licensing, regulatory compliance, and best ​practices in trade and transportation. I am licensed to practice law in California ​and Washington.

Specialties: Primary area of practice concerns U.S. Customs, Export Control, ​Domestic & International Transportation & Trade. Responsible for representation ​and business consultation to Importers, Exporters, Marine Underwriters, Air, ​Motor & Ocean Freight Forwarders, Customs Brokers, OTIs & NVOCCs, Indirect Air ​Carriers, Intermodal Operators, Motor Carriers and Property Brokers, Marine & ​Transport Liability Insurance. Transportation related risk management, contract ​drafting, business and legal strategies for international trade.

JOSHUA L. RODMAN is a Member with Sandler, Travis & Rosenberg, P.A., resident in the Miami, ​Florida office.

Mr. Rodman prides himself on delivering efficient and creative advice to executives in an ever-​increasingly complex regulatory environment. Mr. Rodman’s practice focuses on:

ITAR and EAR classification and compliance; export licensing; export control program reviews, ​audits and voluntary self-disclosures; and export control training for employees.

OFAC regulations and sanctions and embargo compliance.

The Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS).

Negotiating, securing and performing government prime contracts, subcontracts and sub-tier ​subcontracts; Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation ​(DFARS) compliance; and U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) rules.

Buy American Act (BAA); federal agency-specific "Buy America" compliance; Trade Agreements Act ​(TAA) compliance; Build America, Buy America (BABA) under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs ​Act; and Buy America provisions under the Inflation Reduction Act.

"Made in USA" claims under Federal Trade Commission (FTC) rules.

Mr. Rodman's practice also focuses on assisting private equity firms and other law firms with ​purchase agreements, due diligence and the filing of administrative notifications related to mergers, ​acquisitions or other corporate transactions involving international trade and / or government ​procurement-related issues.

Prior to joining ST&R, Mr. Rodman was an associate for an AM Law 100 international law firm ​providing advice and counsel on international trade and government procurement matters. He ​started his career working for the largest aerospace and defense contractor in the world.

Mr. Rodman holds a joint J.D. / MBA from the University of Maryland and a B.A. in history from ​Princeton University.

Susan Kohn Ross is a Partner at Mitchell Silberberg & Knupp LLP (MSK), resident ​in the Los Angeles office. She chairs the Regulatory Practice, where she focuses ​on compliance whether dealing with Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Privacy ​or International Trade, and deals with the related regulatory, civil and criminal ​issues.

Regarding International Trade, Ms. Ross represents domestic and foreign ​companies, in both the administrative and commercial context, regarding the ​importation and exportation of goods before U.S. Customs and Border Protection ​and other federal and state courts and agencies which regulate the flow of goods, ​addressing a wide range of related topics, along with regulatory investigations; ​compliance policies/procedures; international contracts; international litigation ​and alternative dispute resolution; Foreign Corrupt Practices Act compliance and ​other anti-corruption/anti-bribery regimes, plus the evaluation and ​implementation of artificial intelligence.

Ms. Ross also chairs MSK’s Cybersecurity and Privacy Practice. Having come to ​cybersecurity in 2002 when these challenges started in earnest, she has been ​tracking the developing landscape since its infancy making her among the ​foremost professionals on the topic. In addition to the security challenges, she ​deals with issues related to artificial intelligence, disclosure requirements and ​government enforcement, and works with clients to respond to the daily ​challenges facing their organizations, including breach preparation and response.

William “Randy” Rucker assists global, multinational and other clients with all ​aspects of U.S. customs law. With a business-focused approach, he advises on ​optimizing trade operations, ensuring regulatory compliance and handling ​administrative actions. A frequent author on trade policy, tariffs and regulatory ​changes, Randy helps clients implement procedures and practices that promote ​compliance with U.S. and international trade statutes. He is a skilled negotiator ​and litigator and defends clients before major trade regulators and courts.

International Trade

Randy helps companies maximize trade opportunities and operations. He has ​extensive experience advising clients on the classification and valuation of ​merchandise, country of origin and marking determinations, quantitative import ​restraints, duty-preference and savings programs, and understanding and ​receiving the benefits of free trade agreements.

Import Compliance

To assist clients with compliance and to satisfy “reasonable care” requirements, ​Randy reviews companies’ internal operations and procedures. He identifies ​potential liabilities and recommends solutions to ensure compliance with all U.S. ​statutes and regulations.

Randy also assists clients with trade-related matters under the jurisdiction of the ​Department of Commerce, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the U.S. Food ​and Drug Administration (FDA). This assistance includes labeling requirements ​and the interpretation of antidumping orders for the preparation of scope ruling ​requests or changed circumstances reviews.

As an AI enthusiast, I thoroughly enjoy bringing together business operations with ​cutting-edge technology to create significant value. Alongside my passion for AI, I ​take pride in being an enthusiastic entrepreneur with a proven track record in the ​logistics and supply chain sector.

Over the past 5 years, I have been the founder of AiDock, an innovative venture ​aimed at revolutionizing the logistics bureaucracy using state-of-the-art AI ​technologies. Our primary focus is on enhancing productivity, efficiency, and ​accuracy in customs processes and empowering people. At AiDock, we are at the ​forefront of human-machine collaboration, striving to enable individuals to ​achieve more, perform better, and accomplish tasks faster. It's truly rewarding to ​be part of a team that is leading the way in leveraging AI for the betterment of the ​logistics industry and beyond.

Mollie Sitkowski handles import and export control and compliance work on ​behalf of the firm's clients. She has assisted numerous clients in developing and ​implementing import and export compliance programs and offers continued ​training to the business areas that touch on import and export compliance.

She assists with export compliance matters, including advising on export ​screening and classification, and filing license classification requests and ​voluntary disclosures with the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of ​Industry and Security (BIS) and the U.S. Department of State’s Directorate of ​Defense Trade Controls (DDTC). She has advised U.S.-headquartered ​multinationals, as well as foreign-based multinationals, on compliance with U.S. ​sanctions laws and the extraterritorial reach of U.S. export controls.

She also handles import compliance matters, including issues related to import ​valuation, tariff classification, free trade agreements, country of origin ​determination and marking and other import compliance areas. She has ​particular experience counseling and assisting clients with developing and ​implementing reconciliation programs, including identifying the required ​additions to values. In addition, she has advocated for her client’s preferred tariff ​classification in litigation in the Court of International Trade and the Court of ​Appeals for the Federal Circuit.

Marin Kukoc is the Product Manager for the AI team at KYG Trade, where he leads ​the development of innovative AI-assisted compliance solutions. KYG Trade is an ​AI-assisted orchestration platform for global trade management and global trade ​compliance. With a decade of experience in product design and product ​management, Marin brings a wealth of knowledge and practical expertise to his ​role. Marin focuses on enhancing compliance solutions that simplify and improve ​trade processes. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Economics from the Wharton ​School at the University of Pennsylvania. His expertise in AI, compliance, and ​product management, coupled with his dedication to innovation, positions him as ​a forward-thinking leader in the trade compliance industry.

GDLSK LLP is one of the nation’s largest law firms devoted exclusively to ​international trade and customs matters. The firm represents a wide variety of ​clients, ranging from privately held companies to Fortune 100 corporations ​engaged in the manufacture and distribution of textiles, consumer electronics, ​foodstuffs, computer and telecommunications equipment, pharmaceuticals, ​chemicals, automotive products, steel, wearing apparel, agricultural products ​and a host of other consumer and industrial products. Our clients include ​domestic and foreign manufacturers, importers, exporters, trading companies, ​customs brokers, trade associations and foreign trade associations. The firm’s ​lawyers have substantial experience practicing before the government agencies ​responsible for the administration and enforcement of our international trade ​and customs laws. Many of our lawyers gained experience with US Customs & ​Border Protection, the Department of Commerce, the International Trade ​Commission, the Court of International Trade and the Department of Justice. ​Several of our attorneys are also licensed customs brokers and are uniquely ​qualified to understand issues relating to the delivery and clearance of ​imported/exported merchandise.

Scott Taylor is a member of Sandler, Travis & Rosenberg, P.A. and leader of our ​foreign-trade zones practice area, where he represents clients across a variety of ​industries in the area of international trade, customs, and foreign-trade zone law.

During his career Taylor has developed and structured more than 550 FTZ ​projects, including alternative site framework applications, special-purpose ​subzones, subzone expansions, general-purpose zones and expansions, boundary ​modifications, and scope determinations. He has extensive experience working ​with officials at the Department of Commerce, U.S. Customs and Border ​Protection headquarters and field offices, and congressional offices on Capitol ​Hill. He has also negotiated numerous FTZ contracts on behalf of companies.

Taylor holds a J.D. from the University of Missouri – Kansas City, an MBA from ​Rockhurst University, and a B.A. in political science from the University of Kansas. ​He is a member of the bar in Missouri and Kansas.

Agate Solutions, LLC provides consulting and training in International

Trade and Global Logistics.

With 20 years of industry experience, Shaquana is widely known for her

expertise in import duty recovery with savings of over $30M.

Shaquana is highly sought after for her Trade Agreements and Supply Chain strategies expertise. She has proven

to be an industry leader as a subject matter expert in International Trade Compliance, Policy, Global Logistics

and Supply Chain.

Shaquana holds a Master of Science Degree from the University of New Haven and a Bachelor of Science from

the City University of New York – Queens College. She is also a Certified Customs Specialist and a Certified

Duty Drawback Specialist.

Shaquana is the VP of International Chapters for the Women in International Trade (OWIT) Executive Board,

the Vice Chair of the National Black Chamber of Commerce International Committee, the Co-Chair of the

National Alliance for Black Business International Committee, the International Trade Compliance lead for the

Atlanta Black Chamber – Global Opportunities Committee, is on the Board of Directors for Troops 2 Logistics,

leads the Atlanta Chapter of the International Compliance Professionals Association and the former Council

Chair of the United States Pakistan Chamber of Commerce.

Agate Solutions stands as a beacon for empowerment in the vast seas of International Trade with specialized

consulting services, preparing businesses to increase their margins by capitalizing on international trade

strategies to reduce duty, leverage trade agreements, defer import taxes with Foreign Trade Zones, navigate

import-export complexities, maintain Department of Defense compliance, eliminate costly trade risk, optimize

tariffs, and resolve the challenges of U.S. Customs and partnering government agencies.

Agate Trade Academy courses and mentoring program transform individuals, teams, and organizations by

growing their skills to define their success. With meticulously curated courses, and personalized mentoring, it

serves as the linchpin for businesses, individuals, teams, and organizations aiming to broaden their skill sets and

redefine their success narratives. The courses are precisely crafted and constructed to provide a comprehensive

roadmap for aspirants and enterprises in domains like Import, Export, International Trade Compliance, Global

Logistics, and Supply Chain.

Simplifying complex scenarios through tangible real-world solutions, Shaq ensures that international trade and

learning is not just theoretical but deeply relatable and transformative with a signature touch to Agate Solutions'

pedagogy, the "Shaq Breakdown.

"

30+ years experience advising clients and litigating issues relating to Customs ​and trade matters, including: classification, valuation, country-of-origin, special ​duty exemptions, NAFTA, drawback, regulatory audits and compliance ​assessments, penalties related to customs laws and compliance issues. Assists ​clients in establishing and improving internal import compliance programs and ​audits.

Export Administration Regulations of Bureau of Industry and Security, Commerce ​Department, Assets Control and Sanctions Regulations of Office of Foreign ​Assets Control, Treasury Department. Assists in establishing and improving ​internal export compliance programs, provides or obtains product classifications ​and jurisdiction determinations, assists in obtaining licenses and advising on ​appropriate licenses or exceptions, representation before government agencies ​in civil penalty cases. .

Specialties: Customs Law; Export Licensing; Penalties & Disclosures; Litigation; ​Other U.S. Government Regulatory requirements

Domenic J. Veneziano is an Independent FDA Regulatory and Strategic Consultant and Owner

of Veneziano Consulting, LLC. A 24 year veteran of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration

(FDA) and U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS), Domenic served as the Director of Import

Operations in the Office of Regulatory Affairs. As a senior FDA leader he had prominent roles in

the oversight of FDA’s National import operations program, including the development and

implementation of FDA’s Targeting System PREDICT and the Import Trade Communication

System (ITACS), the integration of Customs and Border Protections Automated Commercial

Environment (ACE) with FDA’s systems, and the new Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA)

and Food and Drug Safety and Innovations Act. He was recognized as FDA’s expert in import

operations and as such has testified in federal court and before Congress, has initiated, approved,

and endorsed enforcement actions, has represented the FDA for media inquiries, represented

FDA on White House initiatives, the Automated Commercial Environment/International Trade

Data System board of directors and the Border Interagency Executive Council. Additionally,

Domenic has been the recipient of numerous awards, including the Department of Human

Services Secretary’s Award for Distinguished Service.

Domenic began his FDA career as a field investigator in the New England District office where

he conducted domestic and foreign inspections and investigations. He was selected as a

Supervisory Investigator where he was responsible for assessing inspectional reports, evaluating

documented violations and the evidence supporting them and endorsing the classification of the

inspection. He was also responsible for the New England Districts import program.

In 2003, Domenic transferred to FDA Headquarters when he was asked to establish, staff and

Direct FDA’s first 24/7/365 operational center in response to the Bioterrorism Act of 2002.

Domenic create and operationalized the Prior Notice Center and served as its Director for 2

years. In 2005, Domenic became the Director of the Division of Import Operations and Policy

where he enforced the import laws, developed and implemented field operational policy and

procedures across the country covering over 320 port of entries, and advised FDA senior

Executives on all issues related to import operations.

As a consultant, Domenic will work closely with clients to provide advice to producers,

importers, exporters and distributors of FDA-regulated commodities; help clients import

products into the U.S. and get them removed from import alert; evaluate medical device and food

facilities to determine compliance with good manufacturing practice regulations and the FSMA;

and to assist in correcting deviations found during FDA inspections or third-party audits.

Domenic received a B.S. degree in Engineering from the University of Maine.

Roanoke is pleased to share that Matt Zehner, Vice President of Surety ​Information and Analysis, has been appointed to the 16th term of the ​Commercial Customs Operations Advisory Committee (COAC). Matt has been ​with Roanoke since 2002 and is involved with many facets of Roanoke’s surety ​product line, which involves monitoring current events for changes in the legal ​and regulatory environment.

More specifically, Matt represents Roanoke in matters before U.S. Customs and ​Border Protection (CBP), the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC), and the ​Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) – especially for those issues ​that involve regulatory and technology matters. His responsibilities also require ​external and internal communications regarding important statutory, regulatory, ​and operational changes of CBP, the FMC, the FMCSA, and key judicial actions.

In addition to his role on COAC, Matt is also president of the International Trade ​Surety Association and member of the 21CCF Task Force and its Focus Group. His ​knowledge and expertise are highly valued by Roanoke clients, associates, and ​government agencies, and we couldn’t be prouder to have him as part of the ​team.

Ms. Whittenburg is a committed champion of international trade education and training, ​currently serving as the Executive Vice President of the NCBFAA Educational Institute ​whose mission is to provide relevant content via multimedia platforms to equip our nation’s ​21st century cross-border, trade-related workforce. She is a civil service and U.S. Army ​veteran helping American businesses design clear, legally compliant, and socially ​responsible cross-border trade strategies. In her over 12 years as a Senior Executive and ​director, she oversaw a complex mission of facilitating lawful trade and exercising trade ​enforcement to ensure fair and competitive trade. Ms. Whittenburg managed a $300+ ​million budget leading a highly diverse staff of CBP professionals in pursuing transformative ​trade policies that promoted economic security and growth for American businesses, along ​with ensuring only safe and legitimate products entered the U.S. commerce. Over the ​course of her career at U.S. Customs and CBP, she was blessed with being able to share her ​knowledge in the trade realm, visiting South Africa, Ghana, Kenya, Gabon, and Ethiopia. She ​is a licensed customs broker and is also currently serving as a member of the United States ​Trade Representative Trade Advisory Committee on Africa.

She earned a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science/Business at Dillard University, holds ​master’s degrees in both Public Administration from Georgia Southern University, and Legal ​Studies in International Business Law from the University of Oklahoma. Ms. Whittenburg ​also completed the Senior Managers in Government course at Harvard Kennedy School of ​Government. As an active member of the Executive Women in Government, Ms. ​Whittenburg continues to serve as the Immediate Past President of this organization whose ​objective is to advocate for the advancement of women in senior leadership positions as ​well as prepare the up-and-coming tier of women for senior executive roles in the Federal ​Government. She also serves her community as a committee chair within the Oak Creek ​Homeowners Association.

Tom was former CEO of American River International in New York and Apex Global Logistics ​Supply Chain Operation in Los Angeles. Tom has over 30 years’ experience in assisting ​companies all over the world manage their import and export operations.

He is a member of the NY District Export Council, sits on the board of numerous ​corporations and is considered a leader in the business verticals he works in.

He has now authored over 19 books on Global Trade and is in the middle of an eight book ​series, titled "The Global Warrior; Advancing on the Necessary Skill Sets to Compete ​Effectively in Global Trade".

Tom is also the Director of the National Institute of world trade (niwt.org) a 30-year-old ​educational and training organization.

Special Agent (SA) Robert Kotarski entered on duty with the Federal Bureau of ​Investigation (FBI) in 2011, and was assigned to the Cincinnati Division. While ​assigned to the Cincinnati Division, SA Kotarski specialized in investigations ​ranging from corporate fraud, healthcare fraud, fraud against the government, ​counterterrorism, and cyber related threats. In 2017, SA Kotarski was promoted ​to Supervisory Special Agent (SSA) and assigned to FBI Cyber Division’s Major ​Cyber Crimes Unit. While at FBI HQ, he worked extensively with FBI Specials ​Agents, private sector partners, foreign partners, and other government agencies ​to combat the cyber-criminal threat. In 2020, SSA Kotarski was selected to lead ​the FBI Houston Division’s Cyber Criminal Squad. The squad is responsible for ​identifying, pursuing, and defeating cyber-criminals and their enterprises around ​the world. In 2022, SSA Kotarski was selected to lead a squad in the FBI Chicago ​Division which focuses on national security matters. SSA Kotarski is a native of ​the Chicago land area. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology ​and Construction Management and a Master of Science in Cyber Security. Prior ​to the FBI, he served on active duty as a non-commissioned officer in the United ​States Army and a project engineer for the General Services Administration.

Brian Yoshino serves as a Cybersecurity Advisor with the Cybersecurity and ​Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) where he supports CISA’s mission of ​strengthening the security and resilience of the nation’s critical infrastructure. As ​a CSA, Mr. Yoshino is the liaison between federal services and state, local, tribal, ​and territorial governments, critical infrastructure, and private industry. He ​conducts various cyber preparedness, risk mitigation, and incident response ​coordination activities through public and private partnerships and outreach ​efforts.

Mr. Yoshino has over two decades of experience in cybersecurity spanning the ​federal civilian and private sector communities. Prior to joining CISA, Mr. Yoshino ​held positions within the National Security Agency and the Executive Office of ​the President, White House Information Security Directorate. He holds numerous ​cybersecurity certifications including the SANS GIAC Security Expert (GSE) ​certification. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Northern Illinois University and a ​master’s degree in Information Security from Lewis University.

Gerry Horner has been employed with the U.S. Department of Commerce for over 34 years, ​specializing in export data collection, publication of export statistics, formulating export ​regulations, and measuring the compliance of export reporting.

Mr. Horner currently is employed by the U.S. Census Bureau where he is currently the Branch ​Chief of the Trade Regulations Branch, responsible for overseeing the Foreign Trade Regulations ​(FTR); ensuring that the FTR are consistent with other federal regulations and the trade ​community’s business practices; contributing to the development of the Electronic Export ​Manifest; and managing the Census Bureau’s Voluntary Self Disclosure program.

Between 2006 and 2018, Mr. Horner was a Senior Analyst and Director of the Office of Technology ​Evaluation for the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS). He transformed BIS’s data mining efforts, ​deployed the Consolidated Screening List and BIS license decrementation program, and assisted ​in the rewrite of the export clearance, destination control statement, and shipping tolerance ​regulations. Mr. Horner liaised with other federal agencies on all matters pertaining to the ​Automated Export System (AES) while enabling BIS’s access to the Automated Commercial ​Environment (ACE) single window portal. In 2009, Mr. Horner received the Commerce ​Department’s Silver medal award for measuring the effectiveness of BIS’s export controls in AES ​filings. In 2014, he was awarded the Department’s Gold medal award for his efforts implementing ​the International Trade Data System in ACE.

Mr. Horner began his career at the Census Bureau in 1989, where he worked until 2006. In those 17 ​years, he was a major player in the multi-agency team that transformed the collection of the paper ​Shipper’s Export Declaration into the development and implementation of AES in 1995 and ​AESDirect in 1999. He formulated the AES outreach program; established the AES customer ​service call center; launched the AES compliance review program; and contributed to the FTR ​rewrite addressing AES requirements. In 2002, Mr. Horner received the Commerce Department’s ​Silver Medal award for his support of AES and AESDirect.

Mr. Horner has a bachelor’s degree in economics from the University of Maryland, College Park, ​and a master’s certificate in Project Management from George Washington University.

Mathew is a managing director with BDO’s Customs and International Trade Services

(CITS) group. He has more than 25 years of experience advising US and multinational

companies on customs and international trade regulatory matters involving classification,

customs valuation (including first sale), country-of-origin, foreign-trade zones, and the

use of trade preference programs (i.e., drawback) and free trade agreements. He is

committed to his clients’ long-term success, and he adds value by bringing an

international perspective as well as ability to tap into a broad and deep network having

personally worked in more than 20 countries on customs matters.

Over his lengthy career, Mathew assisted companies in developing and implementing

trade compliance programs and developing solutions to minimize trade compliance risk

and realizing duty savings opportunities. He works closely with other BDO practices

including international tax, transfer pricing, and supply chain to ensure that clients are

given the most comprehensive approach to implementing their international business

operations and business transformation projects. He has led global teams on developing

and enhancing client global trade compliance strategies and implementing process

improvements. He assists companies in developing and assessing their trade compliance

programs including trade automation, designing internal audit programs, and conducting

due diligence reviews for potential acquisitions.

Melzie Wilson is CEO of The Global Zolutions, a supply chain consultant in Memphis, Tennessee. With over 30 ​years of experience in the industry, our services offer a wide range of support from imports, exports, ​warehousing, FTZ, and transportation, especially around those under the FMC. CargoWise training is also a ​service that is available for clients as well.

Licensed Customs Broker, a Certified Customs Specialist, and a Certified Export Specialist.

Active member of the National Customs Brokers and Freight Forwarders Association:

Board of Directors – Area 7 Representative

Member of the NEI Content Committee

Former Chair of the Transportation Committee.

Former Vice Chair of the Transportation Committee

Former Chair of the Logistics Sub-Committee

Former Area 7 Representative of the Board of Directors

Former CESAC Representative under the Customs Committee

Former Co-Chair of the Annual Conference Committee

Former Member of Secretary of Commerce’s Advisory Council on Supply Chain Competitiveness

Member of ICPA

Melzie is an avid fan of sports and especially the New Orleans Saints.

Melzie still finds time to volunteer with the Hogs for the Cause Organization out of New Orleans. It is a unique ​barbeque competition where money is raised to assist families with children who have brain cancer. She also ​serves as Vice President of the World Jr BBQ League. A non-profit that focusses on young people in developing ​“skills beyond the grill.” She is also the Organizer of the BBQ festival in Memphis called SmokeSlam BBQ ​Festival.

Lisa Victoria Waller (Anderson) is a President and co-owner of BDG International, Inc. located in Elgin (Chicago) ​Illinois. BDG International, Inc. (BDG) was founded in 1983 by the Anderson family. BDG is a full service ​international freight forwarder, U.S. Customs Broker, FTZ and Trade Consultant. BDG is a proud recipient of the ​President’s “E” Awards for Excellence in Exporting from the unites States Department of Commerce Secretary ​in 2013. In 2007, Lisa and her partners opened BDG International (India) Pvt Ltd in New Delhi, Mumbai (2020) ​and Ahmedabad (2022).

Lisa is an appointed member and Executive Secretary of the Illinois District Export Council by the U.S. ​Department of Commerce. In addition, Lisa is President of the Chicago Customs Broker and Forwarder ​Association.

Lisa is a Licensed Customs Broker, Certificated Export and Customs Specialist. Over the last 30 years Lisa has ​developed a unique FTZ (Foreign Trade Zone) consulting and administration program for U.S. and Foreign Direct ​Investment companies. She is well versed in the up-to-date changes with U.S. Customs & Border Protection ​(CBP) and the many Partner Government Agencies. Lisa has travelled professionally throughout the world and ​managing the India office has provided a firsthand experience not only in trade, but also offshore business ​management. Practical experience in international trade allows Lisa to share insights into how importers & ​exporters can improve their global processes. With dedicated international trade experience since 1993, Lisa ​consults, trains and speaks around the country educating importers & exporters how to streamline their ​logistics operations, implement corporate compliance processes, understand international documentation, and ​most importantly, how to make export & import easier within a global environment.

Lisa has a bachelor’s degree in International Business with an emphasis on Eastern Studies from Illinois State ​University.