Evasion Lead Investigator

About the role

The Evasion Lead Investigator will head the customs evasion investigation function within ZATCA, developing and executing operational plans to detect and resolve customs fraud, breaches and related risks. Reporting to senior management, the role ensures consistent investigative standards and drives performance across the investigator team.

Key responsibilities

• Review and refine customs investigation plans, aligning them with ZATCA’s strategic objectives.
• Design and maintain investigators’ rotation schedules to guarantee comprehensive coverage.
• Classify, prioritize and open investigation cases in the system, assessing risk levels.
• Conduct in‑depth investigations of customs evasions, fraud and violations using techniques such as post‑clearance reviews, declaration checks, valuation analysis and restriction assessments.
• Collaborate with internal auditors and other stakeholders throughout the investigative process.
• Monitor investigation activities for uniformity, recommend procedural adjustments and ensure compliance with operational plans.
• Oversee investigator performance, provide corrective actions and compile performance reports highlighting gaps and training needs.
• Handle objections and appeals, perform reassessments and ensure timely settlement in line with policies.
• Prepare final assessment reports, consolidate trend analyses and disseminate findings to relevant parties.
• Adhere to all relevant policies, SOPs and support junior staff on escalated issues.

Required profile

• Proven experience in customs, tax or regulatory investigations.
• Strong analytical ability to assess complex cases and develop actionable solutions.
• Leadership experience managing investigation teams and schedules.
• In‑depth knowledge of customs regulations, fraud detection methods and compliance standards.
• Excellent communication skills for liaising with auditors, senior management and external stakeholders.
• Commitment to follow established policies, procedures and ethical standards.

Required skills