Operations Manager

Introduction

Join us at AIT, where we believe every day presents an opportunity to make a global impact! We’re problem solvers driven by curiosity and creativity, pursuing solutions for our customers. Together we champion the strength of our global teams and, as trusted advisors, we go above and beyond to ensure customer satisfaction in a supportive and collaborative environment.

The Operations Manager is responsible for establishing and executing company strategy related to domestic and international freight movements, using industry trends and best practices to recruit, develop, and motivate staff for a world‑class customer experience. This role ensures the station has the necessary tools to grow and expand business levels in international product lines while collaborating with logistics providers and internal AIT functions to develop optimal strategies.

Execution includes measuring and managing metrics with service providers, vendors, and internal teams to ensure timely and efficient product flow.

• Develop and execute the station’s operations strategy.
• Ensure processes and metrics support growth, service, and profitability goals.
• Manage and communicate with AIT’s carriers to secure best value and service.
• Exhibit strong negotiating skills and execute freight forwarding carrier agreements.
• Ensure providers meet SLA (Service Logistics Agreement) terms.
• Track performance, develop strategic processes, and proactively improve efficiencies and reduce lead time.
• Build rapport with clients and develop new opportunities, creating and managing key visual tools and tracking processes.
• Coach and mentor employees in a broad global environment.
• Support key account operations requirements and ensure service execution and reliability.
• The wage range for this position is $59,000.00–$85,000.00 and may vary based on geography, skills, and experience.

• Bachelor’s Degree in logistics or equivalent experience.
• 5+ years of international freight forwarding, airfreight, and ocean freight experience.
• 3+ years P&L experience and 3+ years of operations supervisory experience managing a team.
• 3+ years in a diversified freight forwarding industry (preferred).
• 3+ years in international freight forwarding industry experience.
• Experience in operational and P&L management of global products and services in a high‑performance organization.
• Excellent organization and time‑management skills.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills; ability to communicate with employees, managers, and upper management.
• High advanced computer skills.
• IATA certification, DG certification (preferred).

In addition to base compensation, you may be eligible for a bonus based on business and/or individual performance metrics. Benefits include:

• Medical, Prescription, Health Savings Account, Flexible Spending Accounts, Dental, Vision, Life, AD&D, Disability, Supplemental Health, Employee Support, Paid Parental Leave, Pet Insurance.
• 401(k) and Tuition Reimbursement.

Vacation: 10–20 days (depending on tenure), 2 personal days, 1 floating holiday, 5 sick days, 5 volunteer hours, and 6 company holidays (plus Veterans Day for Veterans) annually.

AIT Worldwide Logistics is a global freight forwarder helping companies grow by expanding access to markets worldwide. For over 40 years, the Chicago‑based supply chain solutions leader has built a global network through a consultative approach, servicing industries such as aerospace, automotive, consumer retail, energy, food, government, high‑tech, industrial, life sciences, and marine. AIT’s flexible business model customizes door‑to‑door deliveries via sea, air, ground, and rail, backed by scalable technology, with services including customs clearance, warehouse management, and white glove services.

AIT Worldwide Logistics is an Equal Opportunity Employer – M/F/Veterans/Disabled. If you are unable to apply online due to a disability, contact Human Resources at 630‑766‑8300 ext 5218.

Mid‑Senior level

Full‑time

Management and Manufacturing

Transportation, Logistics, Supply Chain and Storage