Transportation Manager Job

TRANSPORTATION MANAGER JOB

KOKOMO, IN

WHY YOU'LL LOVE THIS JOB

Who is Cafe Bakery

Since 1987, the team at Cafe Valley has produced muffins, Bundt cakes, ring cakes, turnovers, and croissants for our customers throughout the United States and across the world. Our products are made with high-quality ingredients and crafted with care. We strive to maintain a positive work environment and foster a culture of teamwork and innovation.

Who You Are

The Transportation Manager supports Cafe Valley by overseeing the planning, execution, and optimization of Cafe Valley's transportation and freight operations. Utilizing tools such as Transportation Management Systems (TMS) and E2Open, this role ensures timely, cost-effective deliveries while maintaining compliance with all regulatory and safety standards. The Transportation Manager collaborates closely with the Director of Distribution, internal teams, and external carriers to align transportation strategies with business objectives

What You Will Get

Competitive salary

Paid time off

401(k) plan with generous match

Benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, life, and other supplemental coverages

RESPONSIBILITIES

What You Will Do

Direct and manage routing, dispatching, and shipment tracking

Ensure timely and cost-effective delivery of goods to meet operational requirements

Verify that all transportation activities comply with federal, state, and local regulations, including relevant food safety and GMP standards

Ensure necessary documentation (e.g., shipping records, freight invoices, certifications) is accurate and up to date

Provide leadership, coaching, and performance management to Transportation Coordinators and Dispatch Personnel

Establish clear performance goals, conduct regular reviews, and ensure continuous improvement in operational effectiveness

Work with internal departments (Sales, Production Planning, Warehousing) to align on delivery schedules and customer requirements

Serve as a primary point of contact for carrier-related inquiries and issue resolution

Track key performance indicators (KPIs) for cost, service levels, and carrier performance

Analyze data, identify trends, and drive improvements that enhance operational efficiency

Negotiate contracts and maintain relationships with transportation providers to ensure reliable service and favorable terms

Develop and implement strategies to optimize freight rates, routes, and delivery schedules using TMS, E2Open, and other relevant technologies

Collaborate with the Director of Distribution and Finance to manage and forecast transportation budgets, ensuring alignment with overall financial goals

Address carrier performance issues, delivery delays, or other transportation-related concerns in a timely and effective manner

Plan and deliver training programs to build capabilities in transportation planning, dispatch, and overall logistics best practices

Perform all related duties as required; related duties may not be specifically listed but are within the general occupational responsibility level typically associated with the employee's classification of work

SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS

What You Need to Be Successful

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, or a related field; or equivalent experience

5+ years in transportation or logistics, including experience in a managerial role

Proficiency in Microsoft Office and transportation management software (TMS)

Strong knowledge of freight operations, regulatory compliance, and relevant terminology

Experience in food manufacturing or a similar environment, preferred

Bilingual (English/Spanish), preferred

Familiarity with ERP systems for inventory and transportation tracking, preferred

Cafe Valley is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to diversity in the workplace. We encourage applications from qualified individuals regardless of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.