Manager, Logistics Category (Project Management)

Job Description: Logistics Category Manager

Position Overview: The Logistics Category Manager will be responsible for developing and overseeing a global freight and logistics strategy, contracting and carrier management to ensure the efficient transportation and importation of components and products across a global supply and manufacturing footprint. This role focuses on optimizing supply chain performance, managing carrier relationships, and aligning logistics strategies with business objectives. The Category Manager will collaborate with internal teams and external vendors to ensure cost-effective, efficient, and reliable logistics operations. The ideal candidate has a deep expertise in international freight operations, contract negotiations and regulatory compliance.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Category Strategy Development:
   • Develop and implement category strategies for logistics services, including transportation, warehousing, and freight forwarding to optimize shipping routes, utilization, and inventory flow and cost for TPI global operations.
   • Analyze market trends, industry best practices, and cost drivers to inform strategic decisions. Collaborate with stakeholders and cross-functional teams to understand business requirements and develop tailored logistics strategies. 
   • Establish and manage long-term contracts while ensuring flexibility for volume fluctuations and market changes. 
2. Sourcing and Supplier Management:

• Lead the procurement process for logistics services, including identifying, evaluating, and selecting suppliers. Conduct regular RFP's and RFQ's to identify cost-effective and reliable logistics partners. 
• Develop and negotiate contracts, pricing, and service level agreements (SLAs) with logistics providers including 3PLs, brokers, and other service providers to ensure optimal performance and cost control.
• Build and manage supplier relationships and ensure continuous performance improvements and adherence to agreed terms.
• Monitor and enforce contract compliance, addressing any performance or service issues proactively.

1. Cost Optimization:
   • Monitor and manage logistics spend to ensure it aligns with the organization's budget and cost-saving targets. 
   • Implement cost-saving initiatives and process improvements in logistics operations to maximize efficiency and reduce overall logistics expenses.
   • Conduct regular market analysis to identify new opportunities for cost reduction and service improvement.
2. Stakeholder Collaboration:
   • Work closely with cross-functional teams (e.g., procurement, operations, supply chain, and finance) to understand logistics needs and ensure the alignment of logistics strategies with business goals.
   • Provide regular reports on logistics performance, cost savings, and key metrics to senior management.
   • Act as a point of contact for internal teams and external suppliers regarding logistics issues, inquiries, and escalations.
3. Risk Management and Compliance:
   • Ensure compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, and industry standards related to logistics operations.
   • Monitor and respond to changes in trade policies, tariffs, and import/export regulations affecting the business
   • Identify potential risks within logistics operations and develop mitigation and contingency strategies to minimize disruptions and delays. Monitor safety, environmental, and legal compliance in all logistics activities.
4. Performance Monitoring and Reporting:
   • Implement and track logistics key performance indicators (e.g., on-time delivery, cost per unit, customer satisfaction) and develop action plans for continuous improvement.
   • Conduct regular performance reviews with suppliers to assess their performance on delivery reliability, transit times, cost, and customer satisfaction and consistent service quality. 
   • Provide detailed reports to senior management on category performance, cost savings, and any deviations from targets.
5. Innovation and Technology:
   • Stay updated on the latest logistics technologies, trends, and innovations.
   • Assess and implement new logistics technologies and tools that can improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance service delivery.
   • Work with IT teams to integrate logistics systems with other enterprise systems for improved data visibility and decision-making.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in supply chain management, Logistics, Business Administration, or a related field (Master's degree preferred).
• 5+ years of experience in logistics, procurement, or supply chain management, with at least 2 years in a leadership or category management role.
• Strong understanding of logistics processes, transportation management, and warehouse operations including global movement of containerized shipments globally as well as understanding of global shipment of oversized and over dimensional project based shipments. 
• Strong understanding of import and export regulations and processes as well as understanding of the assignment of HTS codes.
• Proven track record in strategic sourcing and supplier management.
• Experience with contract negotiation, cost management, and risk mitigation in logistics.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Proficient in logistics software and management systems (e.g., TMS, WMS, ERP systems), and data analysis toos – PowerBI, Excel, etc.
• Strong project management skills and ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.

Preferred Skills:

• Certification in supply chain management (e.g., CPSM, CSCP, or similar).
• Experience in managing global logistics operations.
• Familiarity with sustainability practices in logistics and supply chain management.

Work Environment:

• This position may require occasional travel for supplier meetings, site visits, and industry events.