Global Logistics Manager

For our client, German production company specialized in the development and production of systems and components made of rubber, plastic, and metal for the automotive industry, we are seeking an experienced and results-driven Global Logistics Manager to oversee and optimize global supply chain and logistics operations worldwide. The ideal candidate will ensure the following:

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement logistics, warehousing, plant logistics, customs clearance, and transportation strategies, policies, and procedures to optimize the supply chain process, with correlation to SAP usage and settings.
• Lead the movement of goods from suppliers to customers, ensuring timely delivery and compliance with regulations.
• Collaborate with suppliers, customers, and internal teams to forecast demand and plan inventory levels.
• Monitor and analyze logistics performance metrics, such as on-time delivery, inventory turnover, and transportation costs.
• Identify areas for improvement and implement solutions to reduce costs and improve efficiency.
• Lead and develop a team of logistics professionals, providing guidance, training, and support as needed.
• Lead the establishment of production control across regions and run efficient production planning based on lean principles with a focus on JNI (just-needed inventory).
• Personally lead and develop a central logistics team responsible for tasks such as logistics calculations (transportation, packaging, and customs), reporting, analysis, and SAP maintenance.

Strategic Planning and Operations Management:

• Develop and implement global logistics strategies aligned with business goals.
• Optimize supply chain networks to minimize costs and improve delivery efficiency.
• Oversee international transportation, warehousing, production planning, plant logistics, and distribution operations.
• Ensure compliance with global trade regulations and customs requirements.
• Monitor and manage freight budgets and contracts with logistics providers.
• Lead regional managers in Europe, the Americas, and China.

Process Improvement and Stakeholder Collaboration:

• Identify and implement initiatives to enhance logistics performance and reduce lead times and inventories.
• Leverage technology and data analytics to improve supply chain visibility and decision-making.
• Collaborate with procurement, production, and sales teams to forecast demand and plan logistics operations.
• Manage relationships with third-party logistics (3PL) providers and carriers.

Risk Management and Performance Monitoring:

• Develop contingency plans to mitigate risks in the supply chain.
• Address disruptions such as delays, cost overruns, and regulatory changes.
• Maintain and improve KPIs for logistics operations and track performance against targets.
• Prepare regular reports on cost, efficiency, and service quality for senior management.

Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, or a related field. Master’s degree preferred.
• Experience: Significant experience in operational plant logistics and global logistics or supply chain management, preferably within the automotive industry. Proven leadership in managing international logistics operations and teams.
• Skills:
  • Strong knowledge of lean principles, visual factory, logistics, and manufacturing systems based on lean principles in the automotive industry.
  • Proficiency in logistics and supply chain management software (e.g., SAP, TMS, WMS).
  • Excellent analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
  • Strong negotiation and communication abilities.
  • Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, cross-functional, and multicultural environment.

Certifications (Preferred):

• APICS Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP).
• Lean Six Sigma Certification.