Sarah Somers, CCS
Sarah Somers, CCS, is a seasoned Senior Associate specializing in Customs and International Trade at BDO USA. With over eight years of experience across customs compliance, global trade, and supply chain consulting, Sarah brings a detail-oriented and analytical approach to navigating the complexities of international commerce. Her expertise spans tariff and duty mitigation, supply chain optimization, and trade regulation compliance, helping clients strategically reduce costs while maintaining full compliance with U.S. and global trade requirements.
Sarah began her professional journey after earning a Bachelor’s degree in International Business, with a minor in Pre-Law, from Coastal Carolina University, where she actively participated in Phi Beta Lambda, the National Society of Leadership and Success, and the Society for Collegiate Leadership and Achievement. She further strengthened her credentials by earning the Certified Customs Specialist (CCS) certification through the National Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association of America. Her diverse experiences across companies such as Tapestry, Shapiro, and PVH Corp. have honed her ability to analyze complex supply chains, streamline compliance processes, and deliver actionable insights for multinational operations.
Known for her integrity, curiosity, and adaptability, Sarah thrives in the dynamic world of global trade. Outside of her professional work, she is committed to community service and volunteering, including her time at Union Rescue, a dog shelter in Charleston, South Carolina. Sarah’s career philosophy emphasizes precision, continuous learning, and delivering measurable value to clients, while her personal values focus on balance, service, and meaningful impact both inside and outside the workplace.
• Certified Customs Specialist (CCS)
• Coastal Carolina University – Bachelor’s degree, International Business (Minor: Pre-Law)
• Weatherford Oklahoma High School – High School Diploma
• Phi Beta Lambda
• National Society of Leadership and Success
• Society for Collegiate Leadership and Achievement
• National Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association of America, Inc. (NCBFAA)
• Volunteer at Union Rescue, dog shelter (adopted a puppy)
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to curiosity, adaptability, and a commitment to continuous learning. The dynamic nature of global trade keeps me engaged, and approaching each challenge as an opportunity to problem-solve creatively has consistently allowed me to deliver value to clients.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
I’ve been fortunate to learn from mentors who encouraged me to stay curious and adaptable, especially as technology reshapes our work. That mindset—always learning and evolving—has been invaluable in navigating the complexities of customs and international trade.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Global trade is never static. Tariffs shift, regulations evolve, and supply chains must be constantly re-examined. While this creates challenges, it also provides opportunities to help clients identify cost savings, ensure compliance, and optimize their operations strategically.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Integrity, precision, and continuous improvement guide my professional life. Outside of work, service and balance matter greatly to me, and volunteering—like my time at Union Rescue—reminds me that meaningful impact isn’t limited to professional settings.