Logistics & Transportation Coordinator

The Logistics and Transportation Coordinator manages strategic logistics operations, transportation planning, vendor relationships, and systems administration. This role focuses on optimizing supply chain efficiency, maintaining system integrations, and ensuring seamless coordination across multiple distribution networks and international shipping operations.

This position reports to the Director of Supply Chain.

Responsibilities
Strategic Transportation Management

• Develop and maintain carrier relationships including Jazz Forwarding and freight providers
• Negotiate transportation contracts, rates, and service level agreements with carriers
• Plan optimal routing strategies and transportation modes for cost efficiency
• Coordinate customs clearance processes and international shipping documentation
• Design transportation workflows and standard operating procedures
• Manage freight audit processes and transportation cost analysis
• Oversee container logistics from Mexican manufacturing facilities to US distribution centers
• Analyze transportation performance metrics and implement cost reduction initiatives
• Coordinate with international freight forwarders for Mexico-to-US shipments
• Manage transportation capacity planning during peak seasons and promotional periods

3PL and Vendor Management

• Manage strategic relationships with RJW Chicago and ES3 Pennsylvania facilities
• Conduct quarterly business reviews and performance evaluations with 3PL partners
• Negotiate 3PL contracts, pricing, and service level agreements
• Coordinate facility capacity planning and expansion requirements
• Escalate and resolve complex operational issues with warehouse partners
• Oversee customs broker relationships and import/export compliance
• Manage vendor onboarding and integration processes for new 3PLs
• Monitor 3PL performance against KPIs including accuracy, on-time delivery, and cost metrics
• Coordinate warehouse space optimization and layout improvements
• Manage 3PL billing reconciliation and cost allocation processes

Systems Administration and Integration

• Configure and maintain SAP logistics modules (MM, SD, WM) with focus on transportation and warehouse management
• Administer T-code access and user permissions for logistics functions across the organization
• Manage EDI integration processes between SAP and 3PL warehouse management systems
• Oversee middleware implementation and automation projects to reduce manual processes
• Conduct monthly inventory reconciliation by downloading 3PL data and manually updating SAP records
• Design and implement system integration workflows to improve data accuracy
• Troubleshoot complex system connectivity issues between SAP, EDI, and 3PL systems
• Create and maintain technical documentation for logistics systems and integration processes
• Coordinate with IT teams on system upgrades and automation initiatives
• Manage user training on SAP logistics modules and system updates

Inventory Strategy and Planning Coordination

• Collaborate with Supply and Demand Planner on inventory allocation strategies across multiple distribution centers
• Develop allocation protocols for tier-one and tier-two customers during inventory shortage situation
• Create inventory management policies and safety stock parameters for each distribution location
• Coordinate inventory transfer strategies between RJW and ES3 facilities based on demand patterns
• Analyze inventory aging reports and develop liquidation strategies for slow-moving stock
• Support brand transition inventory management and allocation decisions during product line changes
• Design inventory optimization models to minimize carrying costs while maintaining service levels
• Coordinate with procurement on inbound logistics and container scheduling
• Manage inventory visibility across all locations and provide reporting to leadership
• Develop contingency plans for inventory disruptions and supply chain interruptions

Process Design and Compliance

• Develop comprehensive standard operating procedures for all logistics operations
• Ensure compliance with international shipping regulations, customs requirements, and trade compliance
• Create performance metrics and KPI frameworks for logistics operations measurement
• Design escalation procedures for operational issues and service failures
• Maintain documentation for audit and compliance purposes including customs and regulatory requirements
• Implement continuous improvement initiatives for logistics processes and cost reduction
• Coordinate with legal and compliance teams on regulatory requirements and documentation
• Develop training materials and procedures for logistics team members
• Create disaster recovery and business continuity plans for logistics operations
• Monitor industry best practices and implement process improvements

Cost Management and Analysis

• Analyze transportation costs and identify opportunities for cost reduction and efficiency improvements
• Manage logistics budget and forecast transportation and warehousing expenses
• Conduct regular freight audits and validate carrier billing accuracy
• Negotiate cost-effective solutions with carriers and 3PL providers
• Track and report on logistics KPIs including cost per shipment, on-time delivery, and damage rates
• Develop cost allocation models for internal reporting and customer pricing
• Analyze total landed cost for products from Mexico to final delivery
• Coordinate with finance team on logistics cost accounting and reporting
• Implement cost control measures and monitor budget variance
• Provide logistics cost analysis for new product launches and market expansion

Technical Requirements

• Advanced proficiency in SAP (MM, SD, WM modules) with T-code administration experience and user management capabilities
• Experience with EDI systems and B2B integration platforms including SPS Commerce or similar
• Knowledge of customs regulations, international shipping requirements, and trade compliance
• Proficiency with 3PL warehouse management systems and portal interfaces
• Advanced Excel skills for data analysis, reporting, and financial modeling
• Experience with transportation management systems (TMS) and freight optimization tools
• Understanding of middleware platforms and automation technologies
• Knowledge of inventory management principles and demand planning coordination
• Experience with freight audit systems and cost analysis tools
• Familiarity with customs broker systems and import/export documentation

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, International Business, or related field
• 5+ years experience in logistics coordination and transportation management with international shipping experience
• 3+ years experience with SAP system administration and user management
• Experience managing 3PL relationships and vendor contract negotiations
• Knowledge of customs clearance processes and international shipping regulations
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with ability to manage complex logistics networks
• Excellent communication and vendor management abilities with experience in contract negotiations
• Experience with cost analysis and budget management for logistics operations
• Proven track record of process improvement and system integration projects
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple complex projects simultaneously