Job Title: AVP - Logistics (Network Design and Execution)
Location: Boston, MA/ Flexible
Position Overview:
We are seeking an experienced and strategic logistics leader to join our team as the Assistant Vice President (AVP) - Logistics. This role will be pivotal in driving the design, execution, and optimization of our logistics network, focusing on strategy development, pre-operations planning, and distribution management. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in network design, supply chain management, and strategic execution, and will be responsible for creating innovative solutions that align with our business goals.
As AVP of Logistics, you will work closely with senior leadership, cross-functional teams, and external stakeholders to optimize logistics processes, ensure the efficient distribution of goods, and drive operational excellence across the organization.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Network Design and Optimization:
- Lead the design and optimization of a highly efficient, scalable logistics network to support business growth and operational requirements.
- Analyze current logistics networks and propose enhancements based on data-driven insights and market trends.
- Develop a robust, cost-effective logistics strategy that integrates transportation, warehousing, and inventory management to ensure timely and cost-efficient delivery of goods.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams (e.g., supply chain, procurement, IT) to ensure network design supports broader business objectives.
2. Strategy Development:
- Develop long-term logistics strategies that align with organizational goals, focusing on cost reduction, service level improvements, and sustainability initiatives.
- Conduct market assessments to understand logistics trends, capacity demands, and evolving technologies, recommending strategies to stay ahead of industry shifts.
- Drive the strategic planning process for new distribution centers, transportation modes, and network expansion efforts, ensuring alignment with business priorities.
3. Pre-Operations Planning:
- Lead the pre-operations phase for new network expansions, including site selection, resource allocation, and vendor negotiations.
- Oversee the implementation and execution of pre-operational plans, ensuring that all logistical processes are in place before launching new distribution centers or transportation routes.
- Develop and implement key performance indicators (KPIs) to monitor pre-operations success, making adjustments as necessary to ensure smooth execution.
4. Distribution Management:
- Design and manage the distribution strategy to ensure seamless movement of goods from suppliers to end customers.
- Identify opportunities for process improvements in the distribution system to reduce costs, improve speed, and enhance customer satisfaction.
- Oversee transportation management to ensure optimal routing, carrier selection, and cost-effective freight operations.
5. Team Leadership and Stakeholder Management:
- Lead and mentor a team of logistics professionals, providing guidance, training, and development opportunities.
- Collaborate with senior executives to align logistics strategies with broader business goals.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with external partners, including third-party logistics providers (3PLs), transportation carriers, and suppliers.
6. Continuous Improvement:
- Implement continuous improvement methodologies (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma) to optimize logistics operations.
- Leverage data analytics and technology to drive improvements in logistics processes and customer service levels.
- Monitor and track the effectiveness of logistics strategies, adjusting as necessary to meet evolving business needs and industry trends.
Qualifications:
- Education: Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, or a related field. MBA or advanced degree preferred.
- Experience: Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in logistics, supply chain management, or operations, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.
- Proven experience in network design, transportation management, and supply chain strategy development.
- Strong understanding of logistics systems, technologies, and best practices, including automation, WMS/TMS, and data analytics.
- Demonstrated success in leading complex logistics operations across multiple regions or business units.
- Strong project management skills and the ability to manage large-scale, multi-functional projects from inception to execution.
Skills & Competencies:
- Strategic Thinking: Ability to think long-term and develop logistics strategies that support business growth.
- Analytical Abilities: Strong quantitative and analytical skills, with the ability to leverage data to make informed decisions.
- Leadership: Proven ability to lead and motivate cross-functional teams, driving high performance and collaboration.
- Vendor & Stakeholder Management: Experience managing relationships with third-party providers and internal stakeholders.
- Communication: Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex ideas clearly to senior leadership.
- Problem-Solving: Excellent decision-making and problem-solving abilities in fast-paced environments.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Industry Knowledge: Experience in industries such as retail, manufacturing, consumer goods, or e-commerce.
- Certifications: APICS, CSCMP, or other relevant logistics/supply chain certifications.
- Technology Proficiency: Familiarity with logistics technology platforms such as SAP, Oracle, Manhattan, or similar systems.