We are seeking a highly driven and experienced Director of Transportation to lead the development and growth of our freight forwarding, brokerage, and asset-based transportation services. This pivotal role involves strategic planning, operational oversight, and collaboration with various teams to enhance our transportation offerings and drive business growth. The Director will ensure compliance with all relevant regulations, manage budgets, optimize fleet performance, and implement innovative technologies to streamline operations. Additionally, this role includes overseeing the safe handling of hazardous materials and fostering a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement within the transportation team. 

Key Responsibilities and Duties:

• Ensuring that all transportation activities comply with federal, state, and local regulations, such as Department of Transportation (DOT) standards, Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) safety protocols, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) vehicle performance standards, and environmental laws
• Manage asset-based transportation, including fleet management and maintenance, to ensure reliable service
• Create, develop and manage freight forwarding, brokerage, and drayage operations to ensure timely, cost-effective delivery and smooth customs clearance
• Demonstrated expertise in freight pricing structures, with the ability to analyze market trends and ensure competitive, cost-effective rates for the company and our clients
• Ensure safe and compliant handling of chemical and hazardous materials (hazmat) transportation, adhering to all relevant regulations and safety standards
• Ensure optimal performance of the fleet, including maintenance, fuel management, vehicle allocation, and inspection schedules
• Develop and manage budgets for transportation operations, including cost-control initiatives to improve efficiency
• Monitor performance metrics (KPIs) such as delivery times, costs, and asset utilization. Generate reports for upper management on transportation efficiency and performance
• Recruit, train, and manage the transportation team, fostering a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement
• Work closely with customers, suppliers, and Business Development Team to address transportation needs, resolve issues, and ensure a high standard of service
• Oversee the implementation of Transportation Management Systems (TMS) and other technology to streamline operations, enhance tracking, and improve communication
• Identify and mitigate risks related to transportation, such as accidents, delays, or regulatory issues, and develop contingency plans
• Oversee the company's fleet of vehicles, ensuring they are maintained, adequately utilized, and compliant with safety standards. This can also involve working with leasing or asset management teams
• Develop strategies to improve efficiency, implement new technologies (like route optimization tools), and make critical decisions regarding expansion, cost reduction, or sustainability

Abilities:

• Negotiate favorable contractors with vendors.
• Build strong customer relationships
• Accurately forecast transportation costs
• Evaluate and adopt new technologies
• Lead and collaborate with cross functional depts
• Develop long-term transportation strategies

Qualifications and Skills needed:

• Bachelor's degree in supply chain management or related field; master's degree preferred but not required
• 6-10 years of experience in transportation, supply chain management, and warehousing
• Proven success in developing and managing freight forwarding, brokerage, and drayage processes
• Skilled in developing supply chain strategies
• Background in asset-based transportation and fleet management
• Knowledge of handling chemical and hazardous materials safely; certification preferred but no required
• Proven record of accomplishment of optimizing transportation networks and reducing costs
• Strong analytical and negotiation skills
• Experience with warehouse management and transportation management systems
• Excellent leadership and communication skills
• Adherence to all RK Safety, Quality, ISO and HR policies and standards

RK Qualities

• Adherence to all RK Safety, Quality, ISO and HR policies and standards

RK Logistics Group will consider qualified applicants with a criminal history pursuant to the California Fair Chance Act. You do not need to disclose your criminal history or participate in a background check until a conditional job offer is made to you. After making a conditional offer and running a background check, if RK Logistics Group is concerned about conviction that is directly related to the job, you will be given the chance to explain the circumstances surrounding the conviction, provide mitigating evidence, or challenge the accuracy of the background report. Find out more about the Fair Chance Act by visiting calcivilrights.ca.gov/fair-chance-act/.