Manager, Transportation/Distribution

General Purpose

Manage the daily transportation operations of a location and/or distribution center. Interact with supervisors, employees, and customers (internal and external) to promote and improve transportation department functions. Conduct necessary audits to ensure federal and state regulatory compliance as well as DFA programs and policies. Develop and promote safety, customer service, and operational excellence.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

• Manage transportation and/or distribution operations activities in compliance with company and regulatory rules and regulations, including operational efficiency, safety, and a professional and organized atmosphere
• Monitor daily operations to make necessary adjustments while effectively communicating with members or customers, drivers, dispatch, and/or other DFA transportation or distribution locations
• Monitor and control costs for labor, supplies, and maintenance; approve expense reports and department expenditures within established guidelines
• Analyze and document business processes and problems; develop solutions and procedures to improve the operating quality and efficiency with the department and with other operating facilities
• Establish positive working relationships with members or customers to ensure optimal service
• Hold supervisors and drivers accountable for providing professional interactions and courteous service to members, customers, regulatory personnel, and co-workers; handle escalated customer inquiries/concerns or internal issues
• Assist in environmental, safety, and transportation compliance and reporting for assigned location; direct staff in the preparation and distribution of operational reports (KPI’s)
• Inspect and schedule fleet maintenance to ensure preventative maintenance/repairs are done in a timely and efficient manner; ensure equipment is maintained and cared for properly
• Interview and hire new employees and identify training needs to continually develop and improve the workforce in conjunction with human resources
• Function as a resource and coach to transportation supervisors. Support employees to reach performance expectations through training and coaching. Establish and communicate department goals.
• Work with leadership and/or human resources on investigations and corrective actions in response to injuries, accidents, audits, or employee concerns.
• The requirements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employee, but is not a complete list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required. Other duties may be assigned as required

Education and Experience

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• Undergraduate degree preferred
• 5 to 8 years of distribution, logistics, and/or transportation experience, including team leadership or supervisory experience
• Certification and/or License
  • Class A commercial driver’s license in state of residence 
  • Have or able to obtain tanker endorsement, as required, and within 30 days of employment, as required
  • Have or able to obtain doubles or triples endorsement as required
  • Have or able to obtain state issued milk sampler/hauler license as required
  • Have current medical card as required
  • May be required to obtain and maintain other certifications and/or licenses for continued employment

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Solid knowledge of dairy industry production practices, processes, regulations, and equipment
• Solid knowledge of distribution and transportation practices
• Strong understanding of DOT transportation regulations related to lawful operation
• Solid understanding of industry, safety, quality, etc., policies (PMO, OSHA, SQF, GMP)
• Knowledge of geographic area (pick-up and delivery area)
• Knowledge of principles and practices of supervision, training, and personnel management
• Skill in leadership, coaching, and team building
• Able to use company computer applications, such as Microsoft Word and Excel, routing software, telematics and handhelds
• Able to communicate clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing
• Able to adapt and manage to change effectively
• Able to determine direction though ambiguous situations
• Able to consider impact of actions and decisions on employees, coworkers, and customers
• Able to multi-task and problem solve
• Able to handle challenging or conflict situations with tact and professionalism
• Able to organize time, energy, and activities effectively to achieve goals (i.e., organizational skills)
• Able to interact positively and work effectively with others (interpersonal skills)
• Able to demonstrate strong initiative and follow through on day-to-day responsibilities
• Able to prioritize and meet deadlines
• Must be able to read, write and speak English

An Equal Opportunity Employer including Disabled/Veterans