Carrier Procurement Specialist OverviewThis position focuses on securing optimal carrier partnerships that align with our customer freight movement needs. The role requires a blend of strategic negotiation of freight costs, robust carrier relationship-building, upholding exceptional service standards and analytical skills to ensure the right carrier is chosen at the right price and right time. Working closely with our Customer Sales team, you will support and exceed customer shipping objectives through meticulous carrier selection and relationship management. This position is integral to optimizing our supply chain efficiency and enhancing our competitive market positioning.
What to Expect (Key Performance Objectives)
Within the 1st Month and Ongoing:
- System Utilization and Data Accuracy: Leverage the Transportation Management System (TMS) for accurate entry, communication, and tracking of shipment details. Ensuring data integrity in the system is crucial for effective operations and decision-making.
- Load Management and Troubleshooting: Oversee carrier operations to ensure loads are completed safely and on time. Proactively identify and troubleshoot issues, employing critical thinking and cross-functional collaboration to devise and implement solutions promptly.
Within 3 Months and Ongoing: - Develop Carrier Relationships: Identify, source, and develop business relationships with new motor carriers to support spot and contract customer freight effectively. Aim to grow existing carrier partnerships, enhancing the company's capacity to meet diverse shipping needs.
- Exceptional Customer Service: Provide outstanding customer service at every touchpoint, both internally and externally, to support a high-quality, collaborative partner experience. This involves proactively addressing issues, ensuring timely responses, and maintaining a positive demeanor under pressure.
- Cost Negotiation and Value Optimization: Utilize available data and relationships to negotiate freight costs that represent the optimal blend of cost efficiency and service quality. This includes achieving a predefined cost reduction target within the first year and presenting innovative solutions for cost management.
QualificationsEducational Background: 4-year degree in Business, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, or a related field is preferred.
Experience: Previous experience in a logistics coordinator or similar role is highly preferred, particularly if it includes managing load data in a Transportation Management System (TMS).
Skills and CompetenciesTechnical Proficiency: - Strong proficiency in Microsoft Outlook and the ability to quickly learn company-specific software.
- Experience using Transportation Management Systems (TMS) for load management, shipment tracking, and data entry.
Negotiation and Influence: - Strong negotiation skills with the ability to secure competitive rates and favorable terms with carriers and service providers.
- Proven ability to persuade, motivate, and influence others to achieve desired outcomes.
Team Collaboration and Independent Results: - Ability to work effectively in a team environment, collaborating with internal and external stakeholders to meet objectives.
- Capable of delivering independent results, managing tasks, and priorities without constant supervision.
Organizational and Time Management Skills: - Strong prioritization and multitasking skills, able to handle multiple tasks simultaneously in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
- Organized and detail-oriented, with the ability to manage and track multiple shipments efficiently.
Communication Skills: - Excellent verbal and written communication skills, essential for clear and effective interaction with carriers, service providers, and internal team members.
- Able to convey information clearly, providing updates on shipments and coordinating changes with various stakeholders.
Problem Solving and Critical Thinking: - Demonstrated ability to identify, analyze, and resolve logistical issues proactively.
- Skilled in developing innovative solutions to enhance operational efficiency and service quality.
Customer Service Orientation: - Demonstrated commitment to outstanding customer service, ensuring customer needs are met promptly and efficiently.
- Able to maintain a customer-focused approach while managing the logistics processes effectively.
Additional ConsiderationsWorking Conditions: - Flexible to respond to requests after primary work hours and on weekends when necessary to support customer and carrier needs.
- Thrives in a fast-paced, deadline-driven office environment.
RWI Logistics is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or national origin.