For Samatha Richards, CITP her journey in international trade began with intention, determination, and a clear passion for global business. Her path started in the classroom at Nova Scotia Community College, where she completed an advanced associate degree in 2019—training that would form the foundation for her career in global logistics and trade.
“My career in international trade began with an academic journey at the Nova Scotia Community College,” she explains. “Following my studies, I was successful in securing a position with a company specializing in international trade in 2021 and have continued to work in the field since.”
From her first days in the industry, Samatha found herself drawn to the complexity of imports and exports—particularly the problem-solving mindset needed to navigate documentation, regulations, and risk.
“I’ve found that solving client issues and managing documentation, risk assessment, and management for imports and exports has been incredibly formative. These experiences have built a level of resilience and an ability to work under pressure that I couldn’t have gained in any other way.”
Thinking critically, solving problems, and shaping client success
Early in her career, Samatha learned how even small decisions in global logistics can create significant impacts for clients. “I recall meticulously analyzing global shipping routes and advising a key international client on a new, more efficient mode of transport,” she says. Her recommendation led to a significant reduction in transit time for her client’s goods, which directly impacted their market entry timeline and strengthened their relationship.
This combination of analytical thinking, operational insight, and client-focused service has become a defining feature of her approach.
She is particularly proud of how quickly she’s been able to take on responsibility and deliver meaningful impact. Within only a few years, she’s handled multiple clients and developed an “ability to help identify new lanes and opportunities that have been instrumental to my company’s growth and profitability.”
Learning to balance theory with thinking on your feet
International trade is a field often mistaken for being rule-based and predictable, but Samatha learned quickly that the reality is far more dynamic.
“When I began, I thought success was about memorizing every tariff code, trade agreement, and customs form,” she explains. “While that knowledge is essential, I quickly learned that the reality of international trade is far messier.”
She clarifies that every shipment is unique, and unexpected issues are inevitable, whether they’re port delays, documentation errors, or external circumstances.
Instead, she now sees adaptability, communication, and strong relationships as the critical components to success: “Being able to communicate clearly and calmly with clients, customs brokers, and freight forwarders to navigate a crisis is often more impactful than having every rule memorized.”
“Your clients will value your ability to solve their problems more than your encyclopedic knowledge of trade law.”
She credits skills like thinking on your feet, digging for answers, and being able to build strong relationships with everyone in the supply chain as real keys to success.
Her insight is one shared by experienced trade professionals around the world: clients remember the people who solve problems, not the ones who simply recite regulations.
Why she pursued the CITP designation
Samatha’s decision to become a CITP was driven by her commitment to professional excellence and a desire to let clients and employers know she’s met the highest professional standards in trade
“For a professional, this designation acts as a powerful signal to clients and employers, demonstrating that you have met a rigorous set of industry-validated standards.”
“It adds an immediate layer of trust and credibility, which is essential for building a successful career in a field where navigating complex risks and regulations is the core function.”
She also admires how it is a globally recognized credential, one that signifies a high level of expertise and commitment to ethical conduct. But earning it was more than just about what it signalled to others—it was also a significant milestone that validated her expertise and hard work.
“Achieving this credential felt like the culmination of my academic and professional journey in international trade,” she says, adding that the rigorous process required to earn the designation, from meeting the experience requirements to passing the comprehensive exam, made the achievement feel earned and meaningful. “It confirmed that my skills were not just valuable to my clients and employers but also met a global standard of excellence.”
A strong foundation for a global future
Looking ahead, Samatha sees the CITP as a defining asset in her career development.
“I foresee the CITP designation being a cornerstone of my future career in several key ways, serving as a platform for growth, specialization, and leadership.”
With a sharp analytical mind, dedication to client success, and advanced global trade credentials, Samatha is well-positioned to pursue leadership roles, expand into specialized areas of trade, or guide companies entering new markets.
Her story is a powerful example of how early ambition, continuous learning, and professional accreditation can combine to create meaningful career momentum.
LinkedIn: Samatha Richards, CITP
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