Logistics Planner

The Logistics Planner to be based in Kingsport TN is responsible for ensuring that all shipments are processed timely and accurately and delivered in a way that exceeds our customer expectations. This role will be a part of our truck planning team. He/she will utilize SAP system to plan tender and monitor all shipments are correct and processed in a timely manner from plant and warehouse locations. He/she will utilize knowledge of systems and experience to investigate operational problems and to ensure that the operational activities are provided to internal and external customers in a reliable timely and effective manner. The employees commitment to work safely and with integrity in all daily activities is essential.

• Plan and execute shipment of raw materials and finished goods from shipping facilities to customer locations in a timely and cost-effective manner.
• Track and Trace shipments to ensure on-time error free delivery to customer locations and effectively communicating exceptions to appropriate contacts.
• Support the operations by working closely with Carriers Customer Service and shipping facility personnel. This involves developing work procedures streamlining work activities identifying investigating and eliminating recurring problems.
• Handle operational issues that arise; escalate with Carriers and Supervision as necessary.
• Work with Materials handling to ensure efficient loading operations and carrier pick-up scheduling
• Identify and execute cost savings opportunities

• Develop and maintain in-depth knowledge of key customers suppliers and products in area of responsibility.
• Proactively monitors carrier tender acceptance and routing guide usage identifying trends and service improvement opportunities.
• Provide feedback regarding carrier performance in meeting requested shipping dates.
• Provides in-depth analysis of delivery reliability data and monitors for on-going systemic issues.
• Identifies recurring service failures to key customers and escalates with Supply Chain Manager/Supervisor and Logistics Procurement Managers.
• Identify opportunities to improve cost and carriers service levels to meet customer demands
• Develop delivery alternatives to meet customer delivery requirements (expedite swap options)
• Drive resolution to urgent customer needs as well as responding to non-conformance /complaint resolution

Required Education

• Bachelors degree (Logistics Supply Chain or Business Related preferred) from an accredited college or university.

Preferred Skills

• Industry experience preferred
• Experience/Job Knowledge/Expertise - preferably work experience in a similar environment or capacity.
• Planning and Organizing - should possess excellent planning and organizational skills to accomplish specific goals and/or tasks.
• Initiative - should be proactive in looking for ways to improve existing processes/tasks to create a more effective working environment within operations. He/she should proactively communicate shipment exceptions and solutions.
• Leadership should portray strong interpersonal and communication capabilities when dealing with internal and external partners. He/she is expected to manage operational issues to ensure that service levels are of acceptable standards and quality.
• Computer Skills - Working knowledge of Microsoft Office; SAP R3; other related software applications preferred.
• Communication Skills - should be effective with both written and verbal communications. He/she should Interface with internal departments such as Rate Audit Procurement Customer Service Integrated Planners Claims Representative Logistics Complaint