Logistics & Transportation Manager
Position Summary
We are seeking an experienced Logistics & Transportation Manager to oversee transportation operations, fleet management, and supply chain logistics activities. This role is responsible for ensuring the efficient movement of goods, optimizing transportation costs, maintaining regulatory compliance, and managing fleet performance to support business objectives.
The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills, extensive fleet management experience, and in-depth knowledge of FMCSA/DOT regulations, transportation safety standards, and international shipping requirements.
Key Responsibilities
Transportation & Logistics Management
- Direct and oversee daily transportation and logistics operations to ensure timely and cost-effective delivery of products.
- Develop and implement transportation strategies that improve service levels, operational efficiency, and cost management.
- Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) related to transportation, delivery performance, carrier utilization, and customer satisfaction.
- Coordinate domestic and international shipments while ensuring compliance with applicable regulations and trade requirements.
Fleet Management
- Manage company-owned and leased fleet assets, including vehicle acquisition, maintenance, utilization, and replacement planning.
- Oversee preventative maintenance programs to maximize fleet reliability and minimize downtime.
- Monitor vehicle performance, fuel consumption, driver productivity, and overall fleet efficiency.
- Ensure fleet operations comply with all safety, licensing, inspection, and regulatory requirements.
Regulatory Compliance & Safety
- Maintain comprehensive knowledge of FMCSA, DOT, and transportation regulations.
- Ensure compliance with Hours of Service (HOS), driver qualification files, vehicle inspections, drug and alcohol testing programs, and safety audits.
- Manage transportation-related compliance documentation and reporting.
- Support and prepare for regulatory inspections, audits, and investigations.
- Promote a culture of safety and continuous improvement throughout transportation operations.
International Shipping & Trade Compliance
- Oversee international transportation activities, including import/export documentation, customs requirements, and carrier coordination.
- Ensure compliance with international shipping regulations, customs procedures, and trade requirements.
- Collaborate with customs brokers, freight forwarders, and third-party logistics providers to facilitate efficient global shipments.
- Monitor international freight costs and identify opportunities for optimization.
Vendor & Carrier Management
- Develop and maintain relationships with transportation providers, carriers, freight brokers, and logistics partners.
- Negotiate transportation contracts, rates, and service agreements.
- Evaluate carrier performance and implement corrective actions as needed to achieve service objectives.
Leadership & Team Development
- Lead, coach, and develop transportation, fleet, and logistics personnel.
- Establish performance expectations and provide ongoing training and development opportunities.
- Foster a collaborative and accountable work environment focused on operational excellence.
Process Improvement & Analytics
- Analyze transportation and logistics data to identify cost-saving opportunities and operational improvements.
- Utilize Transportation Management Systems (TMS), fleet management software, and reporting tools to drive decision-making.
- Implement best practices to improve transportation efficiency, service levels, and regulatory compliance.
Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
- Strong knowledge of transportation operations, fleet management, and supply chain logistics.
- Thorough understanding of FMCSA and DOT regulations, transportation safety standards, and compliance requirements.
- Experience managing domestic and international shipping operations.
- Knowledge of import/export procedures, customs regulations, and international trade documentation.
- Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent leadership, communication, and relationship management abilities.
- Proficiency with Transportation Management Systems (TMS), fleet management software, and Microsoft Office applications.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Transportation, Business Administration, or a related field preferred.
- Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in transportation, logistics, or supply chain management.
- Minimum of 3 years of fleet management experience.
- Demonstrated experience managing regulatory compliance programs and transportation audits.
- Experience with international shipping, customs compliance, and global transportation operations preferred.
- Professional certifications such as CLTD, CTB, or CDS are a plus.
Preferred Attributes
- Strategic thinker with strong operational execution skills.
- Proven ability to reduce transportation costs while maintaining service excellence.
- Experience leading process improvement initiatives and implementing logistics best practices.
- Strong commitment to safety, compliance, and continuous improvement.