The Senior Manager of Transportation is responsible for leading the strategic planning, execution, and optimization of all transportation operations within the organization. This role ensures efficient, cost‑effective, and compliant movement of goods while maintaining exceptional service levels to internal and external customers. The Senior Manager partners cross‑functionally with Warehousing, Procurement, Production, Customer Service, and external carriers to drive continuous improvement and support overall supply chain performance.

Key Responsibilities:

Leadership & Strategy

• Develop and execute the transportation strategy to support company goals in cost, service, compliance, and scalability.
• Establish KPIs, reporting tools, and performance dashboards to monitor transportation efficiency and service quality.
• Lead, mentor, and develop the transportation team, fostering a culture of accountability, safety, and continuous improvement.

Operations Management / Compliance

• Oversee daily outbound/inbound freight operations (Private Fleet & Common Carriers), including carrier scheduling, routing, tendering, and exception management.
• Manage all freight modes (e.g., FTL, LTL, intermodal), optimizing mode selection to balance cost and service.
• Purchasing responsibilities: Equipment / fuel / tires / fluids, etc…
• Ensure accurate, timely communication with internal departments, carriers, and customers regarding deliveries, delays, and solutions.
• Ensure adherence to all DOT, FMCSA, OSHA, and company safety requirements.
• Maintain records and reporting necessary for all transportation compliance programs.

Carrier Management

• Build and maintain strong relationships with core carriers and logistics partners.
• Lead annual RFPs, rate negotiations, and carrier performance reviews.
• Ensure carriers meet company standards for safety, compliance, insurance, and service reliability.

Financial Management

• Create and manage the transportation budget, including freight cost forecasting and variance analysis.
• Identify and implement cost‑reduction opportunities without compromising service levels.
• Oversee freight audit processes to ensure accurate billing and timely payments.

Process Improvement & Technology

• Proficiency in supply chain systems (i.e. TMS, ERP, etc..) and analytics tools to streamline transportation processes and enhance visibility.
• Champion continuous improvement initiatives using Lean, Six Sigma, or similar methodologies.
• Evaluate and implement new technologies to reduce cost and improve efficiency.

Cross‑Functional Collaboration

• Collaborate closely with Warehouse Operations, Production, Customer Service, and Sales to align transportation decisions with internal needs.
• Support customer‑facing teams with delivery performance insights, issue resolution, and service enhancements.
• Participate in cross‑functional projects involving network design, facility expansion, or inventory strategy.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Logistics, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• Minimum of 5-7 years of Transportation Management experience, including leadership or supervisory responsibility.
• Deep understanding of Supply Chain / Operations Management.
• Experience using relevant systems (TMS/ERP) and data analysis tools.
• Proven ability to analyze data, identify trends, and drive corrective action.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Suite

Preferred Qualifications

• APICS, CPIM or other relevant supply chain certifications.
• Lean, Six Sigma, or Continuous Improvement certifications.

Key Skills & Competencies

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Excellent organizational and attention to detail
• Leadership and team development abilities
• Effective communication skills and cross-functional collaboration
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment

Working Conditions

• Warehouse and office environment.
• May require occasional extended hours during peak operational periods.