Deputy U.S. Customs Commissioner Samuel H. Banks says it’s time to start a
new career after 28 years with the agency.
Banks tendered his resignation Tuesday. He said he will depart the
agency by early February. "I believe that you go when you’re still young
enough to start another career," said Banks, 54.
Starting in January, Banks said he will begin to look for work in the
private sector in the Washington area. He will consider job opportunities in consulting or
lobbying. Because of contractual constraints, Banks will be unable to perform
Customs-related work directly with the agency for a year.
The industry called Banks’ resignation a "huge loss" to Customs.
"He
will be missed," said Eugene J. Milosh, president of the American
Association of Exporters and Importers. "Customs will have a difficult time to
replace him."
But the industry looks forward to working with Banks after his departure from
Customs. "There’s lots of room in the private sector for a person with his ability
and experience," said Jon H. Kent, Washington representative for the National Customs
Brokers and Forwarders Association of America.
It’s unclear yet who will fill Banks’ role at Customs. Some industry
analysts say that Charles W. Winwood, Customs’ assistant commissioner for the Office of
Field Operations, is the most likely candidate for deputy commissioner, or Commissioner
Raymond W. Kelly may hire someone from outside the agency.
BANKS RESIGNS FROM U.S. CUSTOMS
BANKS RESIGNS FROM U.S. CUSTOMS
