We are seeking a highly skilled and results-driven Export Logistics and Distribution Supervisor to manage all aspects of international logistics and exports. The ideal candidate will collaborate with cross-functional teams, including global trade compliance, sales, customer service, and distribution groups. This position is responsible for the efficient, on-time delivery of export products to customers, optimizing cost while ensuring compliance with international trade laws and regulations. Additionally, the supervisor will oversee export documentation and serve as the subject matter expert for export processes.
Key Responsibilities:
- Maintain a safety-first environment across all export logistics and distribution activities.
- Develop, maintain, and continuously improve export logistics strategies to ensure timely and cost-effective delivery while meeting customer expectations.
- Ensure the accuracy of data in export operations and lead efforts to identify gaps in systems and standard operating procedures (SOPs) throughout the lifecycle of exports.
- Lead the export process, including booking shipments, preparing shipping instructions, managing documentation, overseeing drayage, ocean and air transit, and handling export filings and customs clearance.
- Manage the timely payment of logistics invoices and proactively dispute any discrepancies to maintain cost control.
- Build and maintain strong professional relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including warehouses, customs brokers, freight forwarders, and carriers.
- Leverage SAP and other tools to optimize export logistics and distribution processes.
- Interpret and manage export contracts, including associated costs, free time, and spot rates, integrating this information into the day-to-day logistics strategy.
- Conduct detailed cost analysis to ensure efficient and effective decision-making, particularly under tight deadlines.
- Create and manage an efficient tracking system to monitor shipments and address any delays or issues until products are successfully delivered to customers.
- Troubleshoot and resolve export logistics challenges, implementing corrective actions to prevent future issues.
- Empower the logistics team to meet deliverables using LEAN process techniques.
- Collaborate with the Global Trade Compliance Manager to ensure all exports adhere to international trade regulations and compliance standards.
- Stay calm and decisive under pressure, especially when managing time-sensitive export operations.
- Foster a culture of collaboration and alignment among teams to achieve the best outcomes for the business and customers.
- Mentor and motivate team members to achieve individual and team goals, contributing to a positive and energetic work environment.
- Address issues constructively and professionally with both internal and external teams, ensuring a focus on solutions.
Education and Experience:
- Bachelor's degree in business, supply chain management, or related field, or 4+ years of experience managing a team involved in export logistics.
- Proficiency with SAP or other advanced planning and scheduling systems is required.
- Strong analytical and quantitative skills to interpret and solve complex export logistics problems.
- Excellent communication skills, with experience in leading and developing teams to achieve operational goals.
Key Qualities:
- Leadership: Collaborative, respected, and empowering communicator.
- Strong customer focus, with deep knowledge of export transportation, distribution, and customs processes.
- Analytical and problem-solving skills for making quick, data-driven decisions in a fast-paced environment.
