Supply Chain and Logistics Manager; CPW

Overview

Co-op Partners Warehouse (CPW) is a cooperatively owned produce and natural foods wholesale distributor servicing co‑ops, retailers, restaurants, educational institutions, and buying clubs in the Upper Midwest. CPW's mission is to build community by developing a strong local food system. This is a salaried, full‑time, 40‑hour per week position based out of CPW's offices in St. Paul. Typical shifts are Monday through Friday, 8a.m. – 4p.m. On‑call or emergency response is required.

The Supply Chain & Logistics Manager is responsible for the development and execution of strategic inbound & outbound routing plans and dynamic load planning using company assets and third‑party common carriers. This position works closely with Purchasing, Warehouse Operations, Sales, suppliers, and freight carriers. It includes direct responsibility for all routing of inbound & outbound freight, inbound consolidation of produce from different farms via third‑party common carrier, third‑party cross‑docks, and back‑haul coordination.

Success will be measured on service level, expense management, collaboration across multiple departments, and mission alignment.

CPW Director

• In‑bound logistics – Manage inbound shipments, coordinate carriers for pick‑up, and communicate accurate arrival times to the CPW Warehouse.
• Forecast & evaluation – Oversee and develop freight forecast and evaluation tools with the Purchasing team.
• Out‑bound logistics – Manage outbound shipments, routing for company‑delivered routes, and coordinate third‑party carrier deliveries.
• Fleet management – Manage leases and vehicle maintenance for CPW’s internal fleet.
• Vendor management – Monitor carrier performance trends, troubleshoot issues, create carrier service scorecards, and spur operational improvements.
• Cross‑dock program – Develop and implement operational improvements and manage CPW’s cross‑dock program.
• Freight claims – Manage freight claims and loss management.
• Compliance – Ensure logistics practices align with applicable state/federal requirements, food safety regulations, and certification expectations.
• Strategic development – Identify and implement processes to improve logistics operations, conduct cost analysis, optimize routing, and LTL/FTL mix.
• Cost optimization – Drive cost‑optimization initiatives while maintaining safety, delivery timelines, and mission alignment.
• Long‑term strategy – Develop and execute long‑term logistics strategy aligned with CPW’s mission.
• Personnel & leadership – Manage drivers, ensure high service levels, safety, and performance; support diversity and inclusion hiring.
• Staff communication – Keep CPW staff informed of industry trends and changes.
• Customer engagement – Represent the company during client meetings and scheduled calls.
• Onboarding – Collaborate with Sales Manager on new customers and with Purchasing Manager on new vendors.

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent in logistics or business administration and/or three years of experience in temperature‑controlled logistics is preferred.
• Familiarity with National Organic Standards and current FDA regulations on organic product handling, such as restrictions on commingling with non‑organic product is preferred.
• Requires proven team management, negotiating, communication, organizational, and problem‑solving skills.
• Direct experience with LTL, FTL, 3PL, and private fleet routing and load planning is preferred.
• Proficiency using Microsoft Office Suite, with an emphasis on Excel.
• Experience with WMS, ERP, and logistics software is preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to work with customers and coworkers from diverse cultural backgrounds.
• Ability to work with TCCP to create an inclusive environment where all are welcomed.

This job operates in a food cold storage environment and in an office setting. Extended periods of standing while walking the production floor and periods of time spent sitting using a computer or other devices are common. Occasional work in a refrigerated environment, down to 34°F. Occasional lifting to 40lbs.

Observes safety and security procedures such as Current Good…