Sr. Transportation, Planning, & Optimization Manager

Sr Transportation Manager

Essendant is a purpose-driven company that reaches beyond business goals to define its success within commerce today. We support our associates, customers and communities – our core values and guiding principles shape what we aspire to do. Integrity, Collaboration, Customer-Centric, Embrace and Drive Change are our core values that serve as the foundation of our pathway to success. Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, Giving Back, Associate Safety, and Accountability are our guiding principles that motivate us to focus on creating a safe and rewarding experience. Essendant is a leader in supporting the supply chain industry and has been in business for 100 years to deliver the best practices for our customers and associates. Join us at Essendant, the better way to commerce.

Major Responsibilities

• Network Design
  • Responsible for the systemic optimization of the Fleet, Dedicated, and Carrier deliveries by distribution center and delivery day for drop ship, stock replenishment, and wrap & label orders
  • Provides network modeling and cost implications based on delivery type and distribution center growth, capacity, and value-added service requirements
  • Leads continuous improvement efforts reviewing delivery footprints and schedules to support operational efficiencies and cost reductions
  • Works closely with the Supply Chain Carrier Management and Continuous Improvement teams to support future planning
  • Optimization and Routing
  • Oversees all shipment processing and load planning guidelines

• • Defines processes and manages KPIs
  • Develops optimization strategies to support operational execution and reduce costs
  • Coordinates with Carrier Management team to optimize carrier lanes effectiveness and costs
• Analytics/Reporting
  • Responsible for weekly KPI reporting and ongoing reporting enhancements
  • Coordinates the designs of reporting dashboards and operational tools to improve KPI management with Supply Chain analytics team
  • Supports ad-hoc analytical requests and often participates in leadership meetings
  • Heavily involved with annual budget process and weekly tracking of actuals
• Systems Subject Matter Expert
  • Detailed understanding of TMS and all systemic capabilities (Manhattan TMS)
  • Coordinates with Supply Chain Systems team to drive improvements and quickly address system issues
  • Engaged with operations team to understand current opportunities and support through planning adjustments and actionable data
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Demonstrated proficiency of Supply Chain optimization systems (Manhattan TMS, PowerBI, etc.)
• Strong analytical skills with working knowledge of reporting, analytical, and mapping software
• Thorough understanding of supply chain operations in a complex, fast-moving environment
• Team minded leader supporting growth and development of his/her team alongside the ability to lead multiple priorities and projects
• Self-identify trends and emerging challenges - root cause and generate solutions
• Proven business acumen and understanding of the transportation financial components
• Ability to partner and coordinate with cross-functional teams
• Possess a deep level of curiosity to understand the improvements required within the operation and take initiative to drive change
• Executes with a sense of urgency; exhibits the ability to balance speed and precision
• Excellent communication skills (oral, written and public speaking).
• Interpersonal Relationships and influencing skills.
• Ability to effectively work across the business with leadership.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in business, supply chain, technology, or related field.
• Master’s degree preferred, not required.
• Ideal candidate will have 5-10 years of operations or transportation experience in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
• Expertise in leading distribution center or field operations
• Ability to deal with ambiguity and quickly changing priorities

• Health benefits (Medical, Dental, Vision)
• 401k with matching
• Company Holidays
• Overtime Pay for hourly employees
• Paid Vacation, Floating Holidays, and Sick Time
• Maternity and Parental leave benefits
• Employee discount
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Employee Assistance Program

Essendant drives to be inclusive and celebrates diversity by starting with our associates. We are an Equal Employment Opportunity employer that is committed to building a diverse and inclusive environment. We strongly encourage candidates to apply for opportunities, even if you do not believe you meet every one of the qualifications described. At Essendant we are building an elevated community by creating a safe and supportive work environment. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind, including or based on age, race, color, disability, ancestry, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, pregnancy, marital status, national origin, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. People are what drives our company. We are one team with endless possibilities. We are Essendant.

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