Manager, Transportation

As a member of the C&S Wholesale Grocers family of companies, SpartanNash is a food solutions company that delivers the ingredients for a better life. A distributor, wholesaler and retailer with a global supply chain network, SpartanNash distributes grocery and household goods, including fresh produce and the Our Family® portfolio of products, to locations in all 50 states.

About the role

This role is responsible for managing the transportation functions, which may include supervising drivers, dispatching, routing and/or planning (to include for-hire cartage and/or backhauls), to ensure safe, timely and accurate delivery to customers. Partners with, and coordinates transportation related activities with other departments such as warehouse distribution, maintenance, etc. May work within a nonunion or union driver's environment depending on assigned location.

Shift: Monday to Friday, 8am to finish

Location: 3030 Main Ave - Fargo, North Dakota 58103

Responsibilities

• Manage the transportation operations as assigned, including supervising drivers, dispatching, routing and/or planning (for-hire cartage and/or backhauls) to ensure safe, timely and accurate delivery to customers.
• Work with cross-functional departments (warehouse distribution, maintenance, customer service) to resolve transportation-related issues promptly.
• Plan and coordinate deliveries, backhauls, and for-hire cartage; determine efficient, economical routes and shipping methods to meet customer expectations and business objectives.
• Negotiate rates for third-party services/contract drivers based on business needs.
• Oversee the dispatch process to maximize resources, reduce miles, and ensure efficient utilization of equipment and drivers.
• Ensure department compliance with DOT/CSA, OSHA, and other regulatory agencies.
• Review drivers' hours of service (HOS), trip reporting, and other DOT/CSA requirements; address compliance issues in a timely manner.
• Partner with the Fleet Operations and Compliance team to maintain DOT/CSA and safety regulations, review on-board computer systems, and recommend equipment maintenance or replacement.
• Analyze transportation activities and implement changes based on findings.
• Develop and maintain reporting to track transportation activities and expenses (e.g., cost per mile, operating ratio, driver/truck utilization, delivery performance).
• Monitor equipment maintenance and availability; ensure preventative and corrective maintenance is completed on time.
• Maintain, promote, and reinforce safety programs and security awareness; report and investigate accidents or work-related injuries in compliance with company policies and regulations.
• Develop, update, and communicate policies, procedures, and processes to improve operational efficiency and regulatory compliance.
• Manage the transportation operations P&L, including expense and capital budgeting, cost controls, revenue, productivity objectives, and operational execution.
• Identify opportunities for cost savings, efficiencies, and continuous improvement in fuel mileage and equipment utilization.
• Maintain effective working relationships with warehouse management, managed freight, and customers; address transportation-related issues or schedule changes as needed.
• Participate in labor relations negotiations, contract renewals, and administer union contracts, grievances, and arbitration procedures as required.
• Manage department staffing, training, performance, and career development; set and monitor department goals.
• Stay current with legal regulations, industry trends, and best practices in transportation/logistics; recommend improvements to ensure compliance.
• Perform additional responsibilities as assigned.

Requirements

• Associate degree in Logistics (required) or bachelor’s degree in Transportation, Supply Chain Management, or related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Five years of transportation planning, logistics, or dispatch experience.
• Two years of supervisory/management experience.
• Experience with transportation operations and related systems, including expertise in governmental safety and regulatory compliance (DOT/CSA, OSHA, etc.).
• Strong knowledge of transportation/logistics, including dispatch, DOT/CSA requirements, backhauls, contract carriers, Bill of Lading, and Manifest.
• Knowledge of transportation on-boarding software; experience with Cadec or Omnitracs preferred.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including on-call availability during evenings and weekends for emergencies (e.g., equipment breakdowns, weather).
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organization, prioritization, and multi-tasking skills.
• Leadership abilities with a hands-on approach.
• Analytical, decision-making, problem-solving, and business acumen skills.
• Ability to collaborate across business units, vendors, and third-party services in a time-sensitive environment.
• Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Ability to travel up to 5% as necessary.

Physical Requirements

• Frequently sit, walk, stand, use hands to handle objects/tools, and operate foot controls.
• Frequently walk, talk, crouch, kneel, bend, stoop, twist, and reach with hands and arms.
• Ability to lift up to 75 pounds with assistance.
• Work in a warehouse environment with exposure to temperature and humidity changes; moderate to high noise levels.
• Ability to work weekends, holidays, days, nights, and overtime as necessary for 8-10 hour shifts.

Benefits

As part of our People First culture, SpartanNash offers a robust and competitive Total Rewards benefits package.