Director, Transportation & Logistics

Role overview

The Director of Transportation & Logistics will steer and improve transportation and logistics activities across North America and Turkey, while also supporting the growth of logistics capabilities in Europe. The position covers multiple freight modes, including truck, rail, barge, bulk vessel, and containerized shipping, with a focus on safe, reliable, and cost-conscious product movement worldwide. In this leadership role, you will set logistics direction, guide teams, manage major carrier and service-provider partnerships, and continuously strengthen the global logistics network.

Key responsibilities

• Create and roll out logistics plans that improve performance across truck, railcar, vessel, and container transport.
• Assess transportation providers and negotiate agreements to obtain competitive pricing and strong service commitments.
• Build and execute sourcing plans for railroads, vessel operators, trucking firms, barge carriers, terminals, and freight forwarders.
• Drive process-improvement efforts in transportation and distribution using technology and data insights.
• Refine warehouse and inventory-handling processes so goods move smoothly between transport modes.
• Oversee freight spending while preserving service quality and dependable on-time delivery.
• Make sure logistics activities follow all relevant laws, regulations, and industry requirements across every transportation mode.
• Spot operational risks in transportation and put mitigation plans in place to protect business continuity.
• Monitor logistics budgets, including transportation and distribution costs.
• Identify opportunities to raise efficiency, lower logistics expenses, and improve service levels across global operations.
• Define and track logistics KPIs such as cost, transit time, and delivery reliability.
• Guide, mentor, and strengthen the logistics team so it can effectively manage varied transportation methods.
• Provide coaching and development for logistics professionals across regions, building a strong, accountable performance culture.
• Work closely with planning, sales, production, and finance teams to align logistics execution with business goals.

Required experience and qualifications

• Demonstrated ability to lead and grow high-performing logistics teams across multiple regions.
• Deep knowledge of rail transportation, including carrier oversight, network planning, and rail operations.
• Strong background in bulk vessel and ocean freight logistics, including contract discussions and carrier relationship management.
• Working knowledge of truck, barge, container, and multimodal transportation.
• Proven track record in transportation contract negotiations and strategic logistics partnerships.
• Solid analytical, financial, and problem-solving capabilities.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to collaborate effectively and influence stakeholders.
• Ability to perform in a fast-moving global setting while balancing multiple priorities.
• Experience working with international markets and multicultural teams.
• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Logistics, Business, Transportation, or a related discipline.
• At least 10 years of progressive experience in logistics and transportation.
• Minimum 5 years of leadership experience managing logistics teams.
• Direct hands-on experience with rail transportation programs and bulk vessel logistics is mandatory.
• International transportation or global supply chain experience spanning North America, Turkey, and/or Europe is highly preferred.
• Experience using ERP, TMS, and transportation analytics tools is preferred.

Additional information

This is a full-time, on-site position based in Chicago, IL.