Forwarding Operations Manager

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As the Forwarding Operations Manager at Forward Air, you will lead a high‑velocity logistics team dedicated to the seamless, damage‑free movement of global freight. You are responsible for optimizing resources, mentoring the team, and ensuring that our operational execution aligns with our "customer‑first" philosophy. You will act as a bridge between transportation excellence and corporate strategy, driving both P&L performance and employee engagement.

• Operational Excellence:
  Oversee the end‑to‑end logistics lifecycle, ensuring 100% on‑time delivery and damage‑free transit.
• Performance Leadership:
  Drive Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) as established by the Terminal Manager, using data to identify bottlenecks and implement process improvements.
• Team Development:
  Lead employee development initiatives, including cross‑training programs and conducting D.R.I.V.E. performance reviews to foster internal growth.
• Strategic
  
  Collaboration:
  
  Partner with the Sales team to meet service level expectations and support new business opportunities.
• Issue Resolution:
  Act as the primary point of escalation for operational discrepancies, providing professional, timely, and transparent solutions for clients.
• Safety & Compliance:
  Ensure all activities adhere to Forward Air standards, including proper freight handling techniques and strict Hazardous Materials (Haz Mat) regulations.

• Experience:
  
  3+ years of supervisory experience in a high‑volume, fast‑paced transportation or freight forwarding environment.
• Industry Knowledge:
  Prior Air Freight experience required. Knowledge of international/import operations and Haz Mat handling highly preferred.
• Financial Acumen:
  Ability to interpret P&L statements and analyze operational data to drive cost savings and productivity.
• Technical Proficiency:
  Advanced skills in Microsoft Office (Outlook, Teams, Excel, Power BI) and familiarity with logistics management systems (TMS).
• Leadership:
  Demonstrated ability to lead teams in a lean environment, focusing on accountability and professional coaching.
• Physical/Logistical:
  Proficiency in general freight handling; forklift experience preferred. Flexible to work varied shifts, including nights and weekends.

• Adaptability:
  Thrives in a dynamic, high‑pressure environment while maintaining a "can‑do" attitude.
• Communication:
  Clearly conveys complex logistical data to all levels, from dock workers to executive leadership.
• Problem‑Solving:
  Proactively identifies risks before they impact the supply chain.

Forward Air is an Equal Opportunity employer.

Since 1990, Forward Air has been a leading provider of ground transportation and related logistics services to the North American air freight and expedited LTL market. We offer surface shipping on an accelerated "time‑definite" basis, delivering cargo at a specific time while providing a cost‑effective, reliable alternative to air transportation. Our network includes over 90 facilities near major U.S. and Canadian airports, 12 regional sort centers, and more than 300 beyond‑points, making it one of the most comprehensive linehaul networks in the industry.