Vice President of Intermodal Sourcing & Operations

The Vice President of Intermodal Sourcing and Operations is responsible for the strategic direction and management of the intermodal operations business unit. This includes overseeing the people and processes that execute Echo intermodal pricing, sourcing, and freight management solutions that support our shipper and intermodal capacity providers. The VP will work closely with senior leadership in Echo's shipper and carrier organizations to drive operational excellence, implement cost-saving initiatives, and manage the end-to-end intermodal supply chain operations. This role will report to the EVP of Brokerage Operations

Key Responsibilities:

• Leadership & Strategy: Develop and implement strategies for the intermodal division, ensuring the company's intermodal operations align with overall business goals.

• Pricing Strategy: Oversee the Intermodal Pricing and Sourcing Team that is responsible for providing our Intermodal Sales organization with both contractual and transactional pricing.

• Capacity Strategy: Identify, evaluate, and source intermodal transportation services, including rail, truck, and container providers. Negotiate contracts and pricing to ensure competitive rates and reliable services.

• Intermodal Operations: Oversee the processes and team of intermodal operations representatives that are responsible for freight management and exception management activities while freight is in-transit.

• Collaboration with Internal Teams: Work closely with the client (shipper) sales organization to ensure sourcing strategies align with business objectives and operational requirements.

• Vendor Management: Build and maintain strong relationships with both ramp-to-ramp and door-to-door intermodal providers, drayage solutions, and technology solutions that may help enhance Echo's intermodal offering. They will be responsible to ensure that all vendors meet company performance and service standards.

• Cost Optimization: Analyze market trends, pricing, and volume patterns to identify cost-saving opportunities and optimize transportation spending. Provide recommendations for cost-effective solutions while maintaining service levels.

• Market Research: Monitor intermodal transportation market trends, regulations, and technology to stay ahead of industry changes and ensure sourcing strategies are aligned with the company's goals.

• Data Analysis & Reporting: Use data analytics to track performance, monitor vendor KPIs, and provide regular reports on sourcing activities, savings, and efficiency improvements.

• Continuous Improvement: Identify opportunities for process improvements in the sourcing function. Implement best practices and technologies to enhance efficiency and performance.

• Financial Management: Lead budget preparation, forecasting, and financial planning for intermodal operations. Drive cost control initiatives and improve profit margins.

• Team Management: Lead, mentor, and develop a team of managers, supervisors, and operational staff. Foster a positive and high-performance culture.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or related field. Master's degree preferred.

• 10+ years of experience in intermodal operations, logistics, or transportation management, with at least 5 years in an intermodal leadership role.

• Strong understanding of intermodal transportation, rail, truck, and container logistics.

• Proven experience managing large-scale operations and teams.

• Excellent financial management skills, including budgeting, forecasting, and cost analysis.

• Strong negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.

• Knowledge of safety regulations, compliance standards, and risk management practices.

• Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and make data-driven decisions.

Requirements:

• Based in Chicago, with WFO requirements of Tuesday - Thursday each week

• 5 years of intermodal management experience

• Experience working with both ramp-to-ramp and door-to-door capacity solutions

Preferred Skills:

• Advanced proficiency with logistics software (e.g., TMS, WMS).

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

• Ability to think strategically and manage tactical day-to-day operations.

This role requires a strategic and operational mindset, strong leadership, and an ability to manage complex logistics processes to drive the company's success in intermodal transportation

Benefits

For more information about our benefit offerings, please visit our careers page at https://www.echo.com/company/careers.

Compensation