Transportation Manager

The Transportation Manager (TM) will oversee and manage transportation activities related inbound/outbound shipments. The TM will lead negotiations on the transport of goods with vendors and freight companies, track delivery progress of inbound and outbound freight, manage the long-haul truck between company facilities, and investigate accidents and other claims to mitigate company liability. In addition, TM will manage the relationship between Honeyville and its 3PL partner, ensuring SLAs are in compliance.

Core Responsibilities:

• Develop & lead execution of strategies to achieve key organizational and departmental goals related to cost savings, process improvement, standardization, and corporate sustainability goals.
• Manage and monitor our transportation metrics, oversee our 3PL partner with daily monitoring of performance, compliance with agreed upon SLAs, thorough follow up of claims, and identify areas for improvement and implement corrective action as necessary.
• Proactively identify, evaluate, and implement savings opportunities such as backhaul, intermodal, and/or conducting RFPs.
• Responsible for the management and optimization of inbound/outbound freight shipment routes.
• Leverage knowledge and understanding of modes, rates, weights, volumes, pallets, class etc. based on customer shipping requirements to manage cost, availability and service.
• Benchmark market freight rates and negotiate spot-rate & set contracts for utilized shipping lanes to minimize overall freight costs.
• Ensure adherence to all federal, state, and local regulations governing transportation operations, including safety regulations and licensing requirements.
• Keeping and transmitting complete and accurate records for each vehicle in the fleet, and for cargo transported.
• Serves as the liaison for the Supply Chain organization with other divisions, departments and outside agencies; negotiates and resolves sensitive and controversial issues; provides required support for corporate initiatives and efforts.
• Manage freight damage corrective action plan for implementation with supply base.
• Establish and maintain effective relationships with contracted carriers and non-contracted that operate in our geographical regions.
• Work closely with internal departments, such as inventory management, warehouse, quality assurance, etc. to coordinate transportation needs and optimize supply chain operations.
• Keep abreast of industry trends and advancements in transportation management technology to identify opportunities for process improvement and operational efficiency.
• Address any transportation-related issues, such as delays, accidents, or customer complaints, by implementing appropriate solutions to minimize disruptions.
• Adheres to all safety guidelines Standards of performance (SOP's), Good Manufacturing Processes (GMP's), Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP).
• Other ad hoc requests as requested by Leadership.

Qualifications

Qualifications and Education Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Logistics, Business, Supply Chain Management, or similar field or minimum 8 years' related work experience in logistics or transportation management role, preferably in food & beverage environment.
• Strong experience working with key Continuous Improvement tools (Corrective Action, Rapid Improvement Event and Setup Reduction). Experience implementing processes and technology specific to transportation optimization.
• Knowledge of transportation regulations and compliance requirements, industry best practices and emerging trends in transportation management.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with internal and external stakeholders, building relationships at all levels.
• Ability to work under pressure and make quick decisions in a fast-paced transportation environment.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills to identify and address transportation challenges and develop effective solutions.
• Computer skills using Microsoft Office (strong Excel Skills) and strong database knowledge.
• Self-motivated desire to improve processes within scope of responsibilities.
• Proficiency in transportation management systems (TMS) and other relevant software applications.
• Attention to detail and accuracy in managing transportation documentation and reports.
• Flexibility and adaptability to handle unexpected changes or challenges in transportation operations.

Physical Demands & Work Environment:

Frequently required to stand; walk; use of hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; Specific vision abilities required by this job includes close vision, distance vision, color and depth vision. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to occasionally loud. Exposure to allergens such as Soy, Wheat, Tree Nuts, Milk/Dairy, eggs et