National Air Logistics Operations Optimization Manager

It's more than a job

As a member of the Freight Forwarding team Kuehne+Nagel, you will play a key role in transporting goods, optimising processes, and fulfilling our customers' promises. And by transporting medicines, toys and important machine parts, you are not only delivering goods, you are making small and big moments possible for people all around the world. At Kuehne+Nagel, our contribution counts in more ways than we imagine.

Kuehne+Nagel is seeking a dynamic and results-driven National Air Logistics Operations Optimization Manager to lead transformational initiatives across our U.S. Air Logistics Operations network. In this highly visible role, you will drive operational excellence through process improvement, automation, standardization, and strategic optimization initiatives that enhance service delivery while improving operational efficiency.

You will partner closely with operational leaders across Customer Care, Operational Care, Revenue Care, Gateway, Systems & Technology, Global Services (KNGS), and Global Air Logistics teams to identify opportunities, implement solutions, and champion change across the organization.

• Lead operational optimization initiatives across the U.S. Air Logistics network.
• Identify, develop, and implement practical solutions that improve operational performance, productivity, and service quality.
• Evaluate and redesign workflows across Customer Care Logistics (CCL), Operational Care Centers (OCC), Revenue Care Centers (RCC), and other operational functions.
• Drive process harmonization and standardization initiatives aligned with global Air Logistics standards.
• Serve as a key stakeholder in operational automation and digital transformation projects.
• Partner with Global Operations Optimization teams on concept development, testing, implementation, and change management activities.
• Collaborate with Kuehne+Nagel Global Services (KNGS) teams to improve operational processes and efficiencies.
• Analyze operational challenges and develop sustainable solutions that improve customer experience and reduce production costs.
• Facilitate stakeholder engagement and gain buy-in for organizational change initiatives.
• Lead operational project implementation, monitoring, adoption, and success management.
• Act as a subject matter expert for Air Logistics operational systems and best practices.
• Travel extensively throughout the U.S. network to conduct workflow reviews, engage operational teams, and support implementation activities.
• Lead and mentor optimization resources and project teams, where applicable

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business, Product Management, or a related field;
  Master's degree preferred.
• 5+ years of Air Logistics operational experience with a strong understanding of service delivery, operational workflows, and customer-focused logistics solutions.
• Proven success leading process improvement, operational excellence, transformation, automation, or optimization initiatives.
• Strong project management skills with the ability to lead complex initiatives and deliver measurable business results.
• Extensive knowledge of Air Logistics operations, carrier relationships, and operational best practices.
• Advanced knowledge of Air Logistics systems such as SALOG, BPA, CareLOG, eTouch, or similar operational platforms.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making capabilities with a focus on sustainable operational improvements.
• Ability to influence stakeholders, build cross-functional partnerships, and gain buy-in across multiple teams and locations.
• Exceptional communication, presentation, and relationship-building skills.
• Positive, self-starting, and can-do attitude with the confidence to challenge the status quo and drive meaningful change.
• Demonstrated change management experience with the ability to successfully lead transformation initiatives in complex operational environments.
• Strong technical aptitude and the ability to quickly learn new systems, technologies, and operational processes.
• High attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and the ability to perform effectively under pressure while managing multiple priorities.
• Experience collaborating with global stakeholders, Global Services (KNGS), and cross-functional operational teams is highly desirable.
• Prior experience leading operational optimization, process harmonization,…