Director of Transportation - Standard Beverage

We are seeking an experienced Director of Transportation to oversee and lead our transportation and delivery operations across the state of Kansas. The Director of Transportation will report directly to the Sr. Vice President of Operations and will be based out of our distribution warehouse in Lawrence, Kansas.   The Director of Transportation will be responsible for the overall leadership, direction, coordination, and development of the Transportation team. This role requires a strategic and operational leader who can ensure timely, efficient, and safe delivery to our customers while maintaining full compliance with all Department of Transportation (DOT) and FMCSA laws and regulations. The Director of Transportation will have responsibility for defining and establishing solutions for long-term sustainability objectives, including developing and implementing specific near-term and long-range plans, as well as identifying key performance metrics for measuring and improving operational efficiencies and performance.

The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in transportation management, fleet maintenance, and team leadership, preferably in the food or beverage industry. 5+ years of experience in a senior-level transportation role required. The ability to provide both strategic and tactical direction to drive continuous improvement and achieve organizational objectives is imperative. Additionally, the ideal candidate will have a strategic mindset and be adept at optimizing logistics to enhance productivity and reduce costs. 

Limited travel within the state of Kansas required. 

• Provide overall leadership for the Transportation department, ensuring efficient and cost-effective operations, fleet management, and driver performance.
• Supervise, coach, and lead a team of 75+ delivery drivers, ensuring performance standards, safety protocols, and customer service expectations are met.
• Oversee the maintenance and optimal use of the company's fleet of over 75 delivery trucks and trailers, ensuring all vehicles are roadworthy, compliant with regulations, and properly maintained.
• Ensure full compliance with all DOT laws and regulations, including regular inspections, audits, driver logs, and safety protocols.
• Utilize transportation metrics (KPI’s) and data to drive continuous improvement initiatives, including driver performance, delivery times, and customer satisfaction.
• Develop and implement strategies to optimize routes, reduce costs, and improve delivery efficiency across the state.
• Evaluate existing transportation and delivery framework (equipment, processes, people, technology, etc.) to understand how we can improve and build on existing platforms.
• Manage relationships with external vendors, including vehicle maintenance providers and suppliers, ensuring quality service and cost-effectiveness.
• Develop and oversee driver training and safety programs to minimize risk and ensure high standards of operations and safety.
• Manage and record all repairs, maintenance, fuel, and operational costs of the fleet.
• Coordinate the investigation of accidents or unsafe acts/conditions through enforcement of the company safety initiative.
• Enforce general company policies through coaching and disciplinary documentation.

• Bachelor’s degree from a 4-year college or university.
• Minimum 5-7 years of relevant experience in Transportation management roles, preferably within the food/beverage industry.
• Experience in managing a fleet of 65+ trucks.
• Extensive knowledge of DOT/FMCSA laws and regulations.
• Strong background in process improvement/efficiencies.
• Demonstrated planning, project management, problem solving techniques and analytical skills; able to partner and communicate with all levels of an organization from hourly associates to senior management, as well as with customer contacts.
• Strong, working knowledge of Descartes, Roadnet (Omnitracs), or other fleet management or routing systems.
• Proficient in logistics software and data analytics tools.
• Results oriented attitude with a proven record of ensuring key deadlines are met.
• Demonstrated integrity and honesty in all aspects.
• Ability to travel occasionally within the state of Kansas.

Candidate will receive a market-competitive compensation package. Comprehensive benefits (medical, dental, vision, 401k, etc.) and a fun, interactive working environment.

Benefits

• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• 401K with Company Matching
• Life Insurance
• 9 Paid Holidays
• PTO
• RAIN program: immediate access to earned wages.
• Paid Parental Leave
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Employee Assistance Program
• SBC Wellbeing Program
• Referral Program