Manager - Network Optimization

SUMMARY: The Manager, Network Optimization will be responsible for optimizing transportation networks, ensuring cost-effective and compliant fleet management, and driving operational excellence across multiple regions. The role will combine strong leadership with data-driven decision-making to maximize efficiency, improve customer service, and reduce operating costs.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

Fleet Operations Management

• Oversee daily and long-term fleet operations, including maintenance, utilization, compliance, and cost control.
• Manage vendor/partner relationships (leasing, fuel providers, repair facilities).
• Establish preventive maintenance programs and safety standards.

Network Optimization

• Design, evaluate, and implement transportation network strategies to improve service reliability and reduce costs.
• Use data analytics, modeling, and KPIs to optimize route planning, load balancing, and asset deployment.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives in fleet utilization and logistics flow.

Leadership & Strategy

• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of operations managers, supervisors, and analysts.
• Align fleet and network strategy with broader supply chain and business objectives.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with finance, sales, and customer service to ensure seamless operations.

Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure compliance with DOT, FMCSA, OSHA, and other regulatory requirements.
• Oversee fleet safety programs, driver compliance, and training.
• Implement risk mitigation strategies to minimize downtime and liability.

Financial & Performance Management

• Manage fleet and transportation budgets, including cost forecasting and capital planning.
• Track KPIs such as cost per mile, on-time delivery, fuel efficiency, and asset ROI.
• Deliver executive reports on operational performance and network efficiency.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Logistics Network Analyst

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Proven track record in network optimization and large-scale fleet management.
• Strong knowledge of DOT/FMCSA regulations, safety standards, and compliance requirements.
• Proficiency with TMS (Transportation Management Systems), fleet telematics, and advanced analytics tools.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain, Business, Engineering, or related field
• 7–10 years of progressive experience in fleet operations, logistics, or transportation management, including at least 3–5 years in a leadership role.

Preferred:

• Master’s Degree in Logistics, Supply Chain, or a related field
• Experience in freight forwarding, last-mile delivery, or complex distribution networks.
• Lean Six Sigma, PMP, or other process improvement certifications.
• Advanced data modeling and optimization skills.

LANGUAGE SKILLS:

Ability to read, analyze, and interpret reports.  Ability to respond to common inquiries or concerns from employees or stakeholders.  Ability to effectively communicate and present information to management, distribution center staff, and drivers. Strong verbal and written communication skills.

MATHEMATICAL SKILLS:

Ability to calculate figures and amounts such as discounts, interest, commissions proportions, percentages, area, circumference, and volume.   Ability to apply concepts of basic algebra and geometry.

ORGANIZATIONAL SKILLS:

Ability to adapt quickly to shifting priorities and business needs.  Demonstrated sense of urgency and ability to maintain momentum in high-priority or time-sensitive projects.  Experience collaborating within complex organizational structures across corporate and DC functions. 

REASONING ABILITY: 

Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, draw valid conclusions, and make sound business process decisions.   Ability to interpret an extensive variety of technical instructions in mathematical or diagram form and deal with several abstract and concrete variables.

COMPUTER SKILLS:

• Experience with Microsoft Office applications required.
• Experience with large-scale enterprise applications required.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. 

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit and use hands to finger, handle, or feel.  The employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; reach with hands and arms; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and talk or hear.  The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.  Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, color vision, and ability to adjust focus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. 

The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

This position may include travel to company facilities.