Dispatch Lead

About the role

The Dispatch Lead is responsible for sourcing carrier capacity through cold calling, building and maintaining a cost-efficient dedicated carrier network, and leveraging data to optimize load assignments. This role oversees carrier communications, resolves operational issues, and negotiates competitive rates to support efficient load coverage.

Responsibilities

• Source carrier capacity through consistent cold calling, outreach, and relationship development.
• Build and expand a cost-efficient dedicated carrier network to support long-term capacity needs.
• Pair loads with optimal carriers using data, market insights, and performance scorecards.
• Manage inbound and outbound communication with carriers to ensure timely coordination and updates.
• Negotiate competitive rates with carriers to reduce overall transportation costs.
• Identify, investigate, and resolve operational and audit-related issues.
• Manage inventory to ensure efficient load coverage and minimize service gaps.
• Maximize load factors to improve equipment utilization and overall profitability.
• Execute load optimization strategies, including load reassignments and “bumping” when necessary.
• Monitor performance and leverage data insights to continuously improve dispatch decisions.
• Support and adhere to payable automation and auto-bundling initiatives to drive efficiency and accuracy.
• Assist with onboarding and training new team members on processes, systems, and best practices.
• Provide guidance, coaching, and support to Logistics Coordinators and Dispatch Coordinators to promote consistency, accountability, and operational execution.
• Support and adhere to payable automation and auto-bundling initiatives to drive efficiency and accuracy.

Requirements

• A High School diploma or equivalent.
• An associate's degree in business or a related field is a plus.
• 2-4 years of previous experience in dispatching, preferably within the transportation or logistics industry.
• Previous customer service experience preferred.

Skills and Abilities

• Proficient in Microsoft Office programs and other general office equipment.
• Organized thinker with exceptional attention to detail.
• Proven ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and adapt to changing business needs.
• Demonstrated problem-solving skills with the ability to identify risks and support issue resolution.
• Demonstrated ability to lead day-to-day operational activities and provide guidance to team members in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to deliver exceptional customer service.
• Positive attitude, team player.
• Ability to multi-task.
• Intermediate-level data entry skills.
• Ability to work independently.
• Willingness to learn and assume responsibility.

Personal Responsibility

• Personal responsibility to manage change.

Work Environment

General office conditions. Exposed to moderate noise levels.

Physical Abilities

• Regularly required to talk and hear;
• Frequently required to sit, stand and bend at the knee and waist, and walk;
• Must be able to have repetitive wrist, hand and/or finger movement to type and work on computer;
• Must have finger dexterity and hand-eye coordination to work on computer, telephone, and related office equipment;
• Regularly required to walk;
• Must be able to have repetitive wrist, hand and/or finger movement to type and work on computer;
• Must have finger dexterity and hand-eye coordination to work on computer, telephone, and related office equipment;