Sr. Logistics Planner

General Purpose:

Manage and coordinate 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). Ensure products are delivered at maximum efficiency, quality, and customer service. Determine economical and efficient routes and address challenges associated with the movement/transportation of the product. Ensure all transactions are tracked and accurately recorded in the appropriate systems. Work independently applying prior experiences and judgment to analyze and resolve complex problems or atypical situations. Serve as a resource to less experienced team members.

Job Duties and Responsibilities:

• 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
• Plan and prepare schedules that 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
• Assist 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
• Manage and coordinate regular business reviews with key carriers to assure continuous improvement in service and performance; develop presentations for supplier business reviews or carrier quarterly reviews
• Function as the subject matter expert for the transportation management system (TMS), providing training and recommendations for leveraging technology to improve performance
• Facilitate effective communication with haulers/drivers and for-hire carriers; provide daily hauler/carrier support through the automated tendering process and ensure all loads are picked up and delivered in a timely manner
• Communicate with 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
• Lead and support 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.
• Work closely with internal contacts to maintain vendor, carrier, and customer data, such as delivery location, frequency, etc.; use this information to support efficient and economical transportation of customer deliveries or shipments
• Provide analysis of RFPs
• Assist in planning and implementing solutions for network changes
• Negotiate contract terms and rates with carrier base following defined internal parameters; ensure contracts are current; understand timing of renewals and allow enough time to adequately review options as relates to potential changes and or extensions
• 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

Minimum Requirements:

Education and Experience

• Undergraduate degree in business, logistics, supply chain, distribution management, or related curriculum (or equivalent combination of experience and education)
• 2+ years of experience with e2open transportation management system required
• 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)
• 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 and skill with Microsoft Office Suite and company computer systems
• 1-3 years' experience with Power BI preferred
• Able to interact positively and work effectively with others (interpersonal skills)
• 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 work with accuracy and attention to detail
• Able to make independent decisions
• Basic negotiation skills
• Analytical skills; able to consider both strategic and practical implications for proposed course of action
• Must be able to read, write and speak English

Travel:

5%-15% (1-3 times per year)

An Equal Opportunity Employer including Disabled/Veterans