Sr. Logistics Planner

General Purpose

Directs truckloads of raw milk and coordinates delivery from farm to processing plant to ensure orders are shipped per delivery requirements in the most efficient, cost-effective manner. Uses analytical and quantitative methods to understand, predict, and improve supply chain processes to optimize efficiency and reduce costs for our dairy farmers.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

• Directs the movement of milk from farm to processing plant utilizing 3rd party carriers while providing guidance to the Logistics Planning team on routine and irregular items.
• Acts as the subject matter expert for dairy.com and SAP, providing training and recommendations for leveraging technology to improve performance.
• Coordinates department processes and communication to evaluate customer and hauler landscape on a routine basis or other unforeseen situations that may arise.
• Manages and coordinates regular business reviews with key carriers, other cooperatives and customers to assure continuous improvement in service and performance
• Manages customer orders for load planning using SAP or dairy.com; considers various factors (geographical areas, delivery dates, amount of product, etc.) to optimize the deliveries.
• Facilitates effective communication between haulers and processing plants; provides daily carrier support through daily communication via phone, email or text and is responsible for ensuring all loads are picked up and delivered in a timely manner.
• Communicates with Sales Team, plant personnel, for-hire carriers, and receiving locations to resolve shipment and/or service issues, special deliveries and/or order adjustments.
• Supports on-time delivery problem solving and performance improvements with customers; actively communicates with all impacted parties to discover solutions to various issues, such as the shipment of wrong farms or a missed delivery date. Tracks customer inventories by hour, day and week.
• Works closely with Sales and customers to maintain vendor, carrier, and customer data, such as delivery location, frequency, etc.; uses this information to support efficient and economical transportation of customer shipments.
• Provides training and back-up assistance for other Logistics Planners as needed.
• Proactively identifies and recommends opportunities for improvement. Thinks creatively and abstractly to develop alternative possibilities to drive supply chain performance.
• Develops and implements action plans for agreed upon improvement initiatives. Successfully completes these action plans individually or as a part of a project team. Builds strong working relationships with people in other functions and meets objectives through collaborative effort.
• Performs other duties as apparent or assigned.

Education and Experience

• Associate's Degree in Logistics or Distribution Management plus 3-5 years of experience in transportation/distribution, applying knowledge of the motor carrier industry
• Or over 5 years of experience in transportation/distribution, applying knowledge of the motor carrier industry
• Certification and/or License - may be required during course of employment

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong knowledge of the principles, practices, and economics of distribution and logistics
• Applies Supply Chain experience and general distribution/logistics knowledge to establish best practices and continuously improve, with a focus on implementing cost effective process
• Knowledge of and skill with Microsoft Office Suite and company computer systems
• Able to interact positively and work effectively with others (interpersonal skills)
• Able to handle challenging or conflict situations with tact and professionalism
• Able to communicate clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing
• Able to problem solve, multi-task and prioritize work activities
• Able to adapt and manage to change effectively
• Able to work with accuracy and attention to detail
• Able to make independent decisions
• Basic negotiation skills
• Analytical skills; able to consider both strategic and practical implications for proposed course of action
• Must be able to read, write and speak English

An Equal Opportunity Employer including Disabled/Veterans