Freight Partner Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

The Logistics Manager is responsible for leading the Company's domestic and international transportation and logistics operations while optimizing the end to end supply chain through data driven decision making, technology, AI, and continuous process improvement. Reporting to the Director of Merchandising, this role is responsible for ensuring efficient, compliant, and cost effective movement of goods while maintaining exceptional customer service and driving operational excellence.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Manage all inbound and outbound transportation and shipping processes efficiently and cost-effectively while ensuring on-time delivery and superior customer service.
• Maintain, develop, and administer transportation and shipping policies that maximize carrier performance, optimize service levels, and reduce overall logistics costs.
• Oversee all domestic and international import/export activities, ensuring compliance with local, state, federal, DOT, customs, and international trade regulations.
• Develop logistics strategies, projects, bids, and cost-saving initiatives that improve operational efficiency, profitability, and customer satisfaction.
• Design, evaluate, and continuously optimize the Company's global logistics network to support business growth and changing customer requirements.
• Manage the carrier selection process, negotiate contracts and rates, and maintain strong relationships with freight carriers, customs brokers, freight forwarders, ocean carriers, air carriers, suppliers, and customers.
• Work with global freight partners to secure the best transportation rates while maximizing freight utilization across all sites, suppliers, and customers.
• Manage all aspects of freight scheduling, routing, and delivery while optimizing shipment consolidation and transportation efficiency.
• Research transportation methods, transit times, logistics costs, market trends, and alternatives to identify opportunities for cost reduction and service improvements.
• Leverage data analytics, KPIs, and operational metrics to develop meaningful reporting, identify trends, forecast performance, and drive strategic business decisions.
• Utilize AI, automation, and digital technologies to improve logistics processes, streamline workflows, eliminate manual tasks, and increase operational efficiency.
• Partner with IT and cross-functional teams to develop, implement, and continuously improve Transportation Management Systems (TMS), logistics technologies, and other supply chain systems.
• Evaluate current and future logistics processes to identify operational inefficiencies and implement automation, process improvements, and scalable solutions.
• Analyze contractual commitments, customer specifications, and operational requirements to develop logistics solutions from concept through implementation.
• Maintain total customer satisfaction through flawless execution and adherence to established customer service standards and critical success factors.
• Prepare detailed monthly, quarterly, and annual logistics reports for leadership, highlighting key performance indicators, cost trends, operational improvements, and areas requiring attention.
• Assist in the preparation of annual budgets and regularly forecast transportation expenses and key operational performance indicators.
• Conduct regular meetings with internal stakeholders and external logistics partners to review performance, resolve issues, and develop continuous improvement initiatives.
• Research, interpret, and distribute updates related to transportation safety, DOT regulations, and industry best practices.
• Ensure compliance with established operating procedures, company policies, and all applicable transportation and trade regulations.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on increasing productivity, reducing costs, improving quality, maximizing profitability, and strengthening supply chain resilience.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the VP of Global Logistics.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, & ABILITES:

• Strong knowledge of end-to-end supply chain management, including domestic and international transportation, import/export operations, customs compliance, and global logistics.
• Demonstrated expertise with Transportation Management Systems (TMS), ERP systems, and logistics technology platforms.
• Experience utilizing AI, automation, and business intelligence tools to improve logistics operations, optimize workflows, and support data-driven decision making.
• Superior analytical skills with the ability to interpret large data sets, develop KPIs, identify trends, and recommend strategic improvements.
• Strong understanding of DOT regulations, transportation compliance, and regulatory requirements.
• Excellent negotiation and vendor management skills with proven success managing carrier and freight partner relationships.
• Superior technical, analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written, verbal, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment where multiple projects are managed simultaneously.
• Ability to translate industry best practices into practical business solutions that improve operational performance.
• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel, along with reporting and analytics tools.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule as business needs require.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor's Degree in Logistics Distribution or Transportation or equivalent field AND
• 5-7 years experience working in Logistics Engineering or Transportation industry.

OR

• An equivalent combination of education and experience.

We are an EEOC/AA Employer. An industry leader, FMP offers well-balanced compensation and benefits programs, which may include medical, dental, vision, life, 401K, profit sharing, paid holidays/vacation/sick time, STD/LTD, + much more. Salary is based on experience and job performance.