Operations Manager- Logistics

RESPONSIBILITIES
seeking a dynamic, hands-on Operations Manager to lead the day-to-day execution of transportation operations. This leader will be responsible for driving operational excellence through accountability, safety, efficiency, and exceptional customer service while ensuring compliance with all company, regulatory, and Department of Education (DOE) requirements.
The ideal candidate is a visible leader who thrives in the field, uses data to drive decisions, develops high-performing teams, and continuously seeks opportunities to improve operational performance.

Drive Operational Excellence

• Lead daily transportation operations while identifying and implementing process improvements that increase efficiency, reliability, and service quality.
• Partner cross-functionally with Fleet, Dispatch, Safety, and Compliance to ensure seamless operational execution.
• Develop standardized processes that promote consistency, accountability, and continuous improvement across the operation.

Fleet Operations

• Collaborate with Fleet leadership to ensure preventive maintenance schedules, repair processes, and vehicle readiness support safe, reliable service.
• Monitor fleet performance and partner with Fleet to reduce Cost Per Mile (CPM) through improved operational discipline and equipment utilization.

Dispatch & Customer Service

• Oversee dispatch operations to ensure compliance with DOE requirements, on-time performance, and effective route coverage.
• Ensure dispatch teams provide exceptional customer service while responding proactively to operational challenges and service disruptions.
• Monitor daily service metrics and implement corrective actions when performance falls below expectations.

Safety Leadership

• Champion a culture where safety is everyone’s responsibility.
• Partner with Safety leadership to proactively identify risks, coach employees on safe work practices, investigate incidents, and implement corrective actions.
• Maintain a highly visible presence during accidents, incidents, and critical operational events.

Accountability & Team Leadership

• Build a culture of ownership by setting clear expectations, holding team members accountable, and ensuring timely follow-through on operational priorities.
• Coach, mentor, and develop supervisors and frontline leaders to build a high-performing, engaged operations team.
• Conduct regular performance discussions, audits, and operational reviews to reinforce standards and drive continuous improvement.

Performance Management

• Monitor key operational metrics including:
  • Attendance
  • On-time performance
  • Route coverage
  • Vehicle availability
  • Customer service performance
  • Safety metrics
  • Operational productivity
• Analyze trends and develop action plans to improve performance and operational outcomes.

Compliance & Operational Excellence

• Conduct routine operational audits to ensure compliance with company policies, DOT regulations, DOE requirements, and safety standards.
• Ensure operational documentation, reporting, and processes are accurate, timely, and organized.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives that enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve the employee and customer experience.

Field Leadership

• Maintain a strong presence in the operation by spending significant time in the field observing processes, coaching employees, and resolving issues in real time.
• Lead by example and foster a culture built on visibility, accountability, teamwork, and operational excellence.

REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor’s degree preferred or equivalent combination of education and leadership experience.
• 5+ years of progressive leadership experience in transportation, logistics, fleet operations, or a related operational environment.
• Demonstrated success leading large operational teams in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong understanding of operational performance management, continuous improvement, and process optimization.
• Proven ability to build accountability while creating an engaged and collaborative team culture.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Working knowledge of transportation safety regulations and regulatory compliance.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and operational reporting systems.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities while making sound, data-driven decisions under pressure.