Logistics Lead

Job Title: Logistics Lead

Role Overview

The Logistics Lead is responsible for establishing, managing, and scaling the end-to-end logistics function for an export focused manufacturing organization operating within controlled goods, export controls, battery shipping standards, and global trade regulations.

This role is responsible for executing inbound and outbound logistics activities, implementing scalable processes and systems, and ensuring compliant, cost-effective, and reliable material flow—from suppliers to manufacturing and from finished goods to customers worldwide.

Scope of Role & Expected Growth Path

Phase 1: Onboarding

• Take direct ownership of day-to-day inbound and outbound logistics execution.

Phase 2: Process Maturity & Expertise

• Develop deep expertise in all logistics, trade, and regulatory requirements impacting the business.
• Design and implement standardized logistics processes, documentation, and governance to support scaling.
• Optimize use of ERP and shipping systems to improve efficiency, accuracy, and compliance.
• Clearly define Logistics’ role and handoffs with Procurement, Production, Engineering, and Sales.

Phase 3: Strategy, Growth & Leadership

• Own the company’s logistics strategy aligned to growth, risk management, and cost optimization.
• Manage external service providers.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives, KPI performance management, and cross-functional alignment.

Key Responsibilities

Outbound Logistics

• Book shipments and select appropriate carriers and freight forwarders.
• Optimize transportation mode, routing, and cost based on service, compliance, and customer requirements.
• Prepare, review, and maintain accurate export documentation, including:
• Commercial invoices
• Packing lists
• Certificates of origin
• USMCA/NAFTA documentation
• Dangerous goods declarations
• Export licenses where applicable
• Ensure appropriate cargo insurance coverage and manage freight claims.

Inbound Logistics

• Schedule and track inbound raw materials and components.
• Coordinate receiving schedules, ASNs (Advanced Shipping Notices), and dock availability.
• Manage customs clearance in coordination with brokers, including HTS classification and import documentation.
• Monitor supplier Incoterms, delivery performance, and freight exceptions.
• Resolve delays, discrepancies, and damage claims.
• Define clear handoff points and ownership between Logistics and Procurement.

Compliance, Controlled Goods & Dangerous Goods

• Establish and maintain compliant processes for export controls and controlled goods, including:
• Jurisdiction and classification
• Licensing and recordkeeping
• End-use and end-user screening
• Oversee battery and dangerous goods compliance, including:
• UN 38.3 testing documentation
• IATA DGR, IMDG Code, and applicable labeling and packaging requirements
• SDS management and certification tracking
• Deliver internal training and updates to relevant teams (e.g., Production, Engineering, PLM) as regulations change.
• Proactively advise Production and Engineering on regulatory changes that may impact existing or future products.

Inventory Movement, Systems & Documentation

• Own logistics-related data integrity within ERP shipping systems.
• Ensure accurate transaction records for inventory movement, imports, exports, and compliance documentation.
• Develop and maintain logistics SOPs, work instructions, and policies.
• Maintain audit-ready documentation and records retention.

Supplier & Partner Management

• Select, onboard, and manage relationships with:
• Freight forwarders
• Carriers
• Customs brokers
• Insurance providers
• Negotiate rates, service-level agreements (SLAs), capacity, and value-added services (e.g., packing, labeling, consolidation).
• Monitor partner performance and drive continuous improvement.

Performance Metrics & Reporting

• Develop, track, and communicate key logistics KPIs, such as:
• On-time delivery
• Cost per shipment
• Compliance exceptions
• Transit time variability
• Claims and damage rates
• Use data to identify risks, inefficiencies, and improvement opportunities.

Core Compliance Domains

• Export Controls & Controlled Goods: Licensing, screening, classification, recordkeeping
• Batteries & Dangerous Goods: UN 38.3, IATA/IMDG, SDS, certification management
• Customs & Trade: HTS classification, valuation, COO, duties/taxes, FTAs (e.g., USMCA)
• Insurance & Risk: Cargo insurance coverage, claims handling, loss and damage mitigation

Qualifications & Experience

Required

• Demonstrated experience in logistics, import/export, and trade compliance in a manufacturing or regulated environment.
• Strong working knowledge of international shipping documentation and customs processes.
• Exceptional attention to detail, organization, and documentation discipline.
• Ability to operate independently while collaborating cross-functionally.

Preferred

• Experience with dangerous goods and lithium battery shipping.
• Familiarity with export controls and controlled goods programs.
• Formal logistics, supply chain, or trade compliance certification.
• Experience implementing or optimizing ERP or shipping systems.