Manager, Logistics Planning

GENERAL PURPOSE

Manage daily operational activities and a team of logistics planners who are responsible for coordinating day-to-day inbound and outbound logistical operations, including the planning/consolidating, scheduling, sourcing, settlement, warehousing, and transportation of products to distributors or internal/external customers in a specific geographic region or for a specific product(s). Oversee the optimal planning and execution of transportation activities with a focus on economical and efficient routes, cost reductions, loading efficiencies, and carrier on time delivery performance. Manage challenges associated with the movement/transportation of the product. Coordinate efforts and interact with internal and external customers (logistics, operations, production, distribution/warehouse, haulers/carriers, etc.) in order to lead a successful logistics planning department.

JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

· Oversee and manage customer needs and/or orders for load planning using software tools and considering various factors (geographical areas, delivery dates, amount of product, etc.) to optimize loads/truckloads

· Ensure schedules balance all parties’ (member, customer) needs with planned load efficiency and profitability

· Study markets trends, dialogue with suppliers, and understand what outside impacts could influence how the business goes to market or products get to their destination; perform demand forecasts for peak delivery periods

· Participate in the development, monitoring, and reporting of Key Performance Indicators (KPI’s) for third-party carriers and other logistics teams, including but not limited to lane compliance, route guide compliance, and assessorial management

· Oversee and/or lead regular business reviews with key carriers to assure continuous improvement in service and performance; develop or approve presentations for supplier business reviews or carrier quarterly reviews

· Ensure effective communication is provided and daily activities are completed between logistics planning staff and haulers/drivers and for-hire carriers

· Liaise with and serve as an escalation point for plant personnel, haulers/drivers, for-hire carriers, and warehouse/shipping locations to resolve shipment and/or service issues, special deliveries, and order adjustments; keep everyone informed of critical changes

· Manage on-time delivery problem solving and performance improvements with customers; actively communicate with all impacted parties to discover solutions to various issues, such as the shipment of wrong product, excess or deficit of product, missed delivery time or date, etc.

· Manage the RFP process

· Lead the planning and implementation of solutions for network changes

· Analyze and document existing interplant and inbound carrier and rate structure; negotiate contract terms and rates with carrier base following defined internal parameters; manage and ensure contracts are current; understand timing of renewals and allow enough time to adequately review options as relates to potential changes and or extensions

· Establish policy and develop Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for logistics activities

· Foster collaboration, consistency, and process standardization within logistic planning work function

· Manage employees, including supervision, scheduling, employee development, and performance management. Work with Human Resources to recruit and hire new employees, identify training needs, and train/mentor to continually develop and improve the workforce

· 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

Qualifications:

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

· Undergraduate degree in business, logistics, supply chain, distribution management, or related curriculum (or equivalent combination of experience and education)

· 5 to 8 years of transportation, distribution, supply chain, or related experience, applying knowledge of the motor carrier industry; 2 years of experience with transportation management systems (TMS)

· Demonstrated leadership attributes or team leadership experience

· Supervisory or management experience preferred

· Certification and/or License – may be required during course of employment

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

· Strong knowledge of the principles, practices, and economics of distribution and logistics

· Strong knowledge of regulatory requirements, rules, and regulations (DOT, GMP, USDA, OSHA, HACCP)

· Knowledge of principles and practices of supervision, training, and personnel management

· Knowledge of and skill with Microsoft Office Suite and company computer systems

· Able to promote a team environment

· Able to work collaboratively with employees in a variety of departments and build consensus around key initiatives

· Able to handle challenging or conflict situations with tact and professionalism

· Able to communicate clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing

· Able to problem solve, multi-task and prioritize work activities

· Able to adapt and manage to change effectively

· Able to demonstrate solid business judgment and decision-making skills

· Able to analyze and interpret data

· Able to consider both strategic and practical implications for proposed course of action

· Negotiation skills

· Must be able to read, write and speak English

Travel: 25% traveling 

An Equal Opportunity Employer including Disabled/Veterans