Scott Lander, David Merritt appointed practice leaders

Vastera, Inc. announced that it is expanding its Trade Management Consulting practice to the European Union (EU). Scott Lander and David Merritt have been appointed Practice Leaders for the European Trade Management Consulting organization. The creation of Vastera's new EU consulting services complements the software and outsourced trade management solutions already offered by Vastera in Europe.

As Practice Leaders, Mr. Lander and Mr. Merritt manage consulting teams of Vastera's trade experts that will help EU businesses optimize their cross-border trade operations. Available for both strategic and tactical engagements, Vastera's consultants use a proven methodology to assess a company's trade operations, identify areas for improvement, recommend solutions, and assist in bringing opportunities to fruition. Among the Trade Management Consulting services being offered in the EU are import/export compliance program assessments, process design and implementation consulting, and consulting in areas such as global supply chain management and trade lane redesign.

"Creating an EU consulting practice is a natural progression of the development of Vastera's global business and a service our existing EU clients have requested," said Tim Davenport, President and CEO, Vastera. "Scott Lander and David Merritt bring a depth of knowledge and experience to European businesses seeking to speed product delivery, minimize duty and shipping costs, or ensure compliance with international trade laws."

Scott Lander joined Vastera Europe at its inception in 1999 and has over 20 of years experience in international trade. His expertise in the global trade arena includes supply chain operations, customs compliance, strategic planning, manufacturing and international logistics. He began his career with HM Customs and Excise in the UK. Prior to joining Vastera, Mr. Lander was a senior consultant with PricewaterhouseCoopers in its World Trade Group.

David Merritt joined Vastera Europe in 2001. He has over 35 years of hands-on experience in the compliance and logistics sectors of international trade. During his career, Mr. Merritt has provided reviews and advice to major US and foreign companies on logistics, import and export control policies, regulations, and licensing procedures. He has a detailed knowledge and understanding of EU import and export control regimes, laws, regulations, and prohibitions affecting international trade.

Vastera will leverage its strong in-country presence as it pursues new consulting opportunities in Europe. Within Europe, Vastera currently provides trade management operational solutions and software to companies such as Dell, Ford Motor Company, Logica, Lucent Technologies, Nestle, Nortel Networks, Schenectady International and Seagate Technology.