Operations Manager - EU Freight

Office Based: Lutterworth Magna Park
Hours: 40 hours per week Monday to Friday

Salary: The salary range for this position is 68000 - 75750 per year. The base salary offered may vary depending on location job-related knowledge skills and experience.
Restricted stock units will be provided as part of the compensation package.

Company Benefits: Wayfair Employee Discount Private Medical Care Dental Care Gym Membership Tuition Reimbursement 25 Days starting Holiday (with tenure entitlement) Bank Holidays Pension Cycle to Work scheme amongst others.

Revolutionise global freight operations and lead the charge in optimising Wayfairs logistics!

CastleGate Forwarding (CGF) is a rapidly growing digital freight forwarding startup within Wayfair. Were dedicated to moving containers globally from Wayfair suppliers to our shelves and beyond. We provide a full suite of shipping services including consolidation in Asia ocean freight drayage customs brokerage and cargo insurance. Our goal is to offer Wayfair suppliers efficient and competitive logistics solutions. We leverage our proprietary end-to-end logistics network to enhance speed quality and cost efficiency.

As an Operations Manager will be a key leader in our organization responsible for steering the team that manages and optimizes our inbound freight operations and procurement strategy. Your primary focus will be to oversee carrier relationships negotiate contracts and improve operational efficiencies. You will be instrumental in driving cost savings and ensuring we consistently deliver high service levels. This role requires exceptional leadership analytical problem-solving abilities and a strategic approach to enhance transportation and procurement performance in the European market.

What Youll Do:

Leadership & Strategy

• Manage a team of logistics professionals providing coaching and career development.
• Drive operational excellence by owning financial performance and executing strategic initiatives to enhance efficiency and reduce costs.
• Collaborate with key stakeholders across departments to ensure operational success and service quality.

Freight Forwarding & Carrier Management

• Develop and implement carrier strategies for inbound freight to ensure both cost-effectiveness and reliability. Stay current on market trends pricing and new logistics solutions to maintain a competitive edge.
• Continuously track and improve carrier performance using key metrics like cost transit times and service levels.
• Manage and lead the negotiation of contracts and service level agreements with drayage providers.

Procurement & Vendor Management

• Oversee the entire procurement process including vendor selection contract negotiation and risk mitigation related to supplier reliability and cost volatility.
• Develop and maintain strong long-term partnerships with carriers to ensure competitive pricing and a reliable supply chain.
• Implement systems to track costs and measure performance driving continuous improvement in the procurement process.

Technology & Process Optimization

• Partner with Technology and Business Intelligence teams to utilize data automation and reporting tools.
• Create and deploy carrier and procurement dashboards to track performance and pinpoint areas for improvement while also standardizing and automating processes to enhance efficiency.

What You Bring:

• Demonstrable experience in logistics supply chain or operations management with a track record of successfully managing carrier partnerships and performance.
• Proven experience managing and developing teams with a focus on fostering a high-performance culture.
• Analytical and data-driven mindset with the ability to translate insights into actionable strategies
• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills with a structured approach to tackling operational challenges.
• Proven ability in negotiation and vendor management adept at resolving complex issues and fostering collaborative relationships that drive mutual success.
• Proficiency in Google or Microsoft Suite and data visualization tools such as Google Data Studio Looker Tableau or Power BI. Any SQL/GBQ knowledge is a plus.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills with experience leading cross-functional initiatives.

Additional Requirements

• Have the flexibility of regular travel to our London office at least once a month.

Although Logistics supply chain or operations management experience is essential any additional knowledge of procurement freight forwarding drayage or ocean carrier management would be a plus.

Ready to take the next step Hit apply and lets talk - our recruiting team is excited to hear from you!

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