Business Operations Manager

Role: Business Operations Manager
Contract: Full-time Remote Contractor (160 hours monthly)
Business Hours: Flexible any time between 5 AM EST - 8 PM EST
Payment Range: $2,000 - $3,000 USD monthly
(Salary is negotiable based on experience and location)
Availability to Start: TBD
Additional Info: Additional perks included in the compensation structure

Client's Profile

The company is a US-based Asian-American family business established in the 1970s to make Asian foods more accessible and elevate the experience of enjoying Asian cuisine. They currently offer a range of premium-quality snacks, sauces, and other packaged goods that are crafted using only the finest ingredients and innovative production methods. Their incredible products are found online or in Publix, Wegmans or Hy-vee. Their team is dedicated to creating community and inclusivity through their products and brand. Join them as they continue to share the rich flavors and traditions of Asian cuisine.

What you'll do

As a Business Operations Manager, you will lead and mentor a team, tracking KPIs and fostering a collaborative work environment. You will oversee logistics operations, including transportation, warehousing, and distribution, ensuring efficiency and cost-effectiveness. This role involves strategic planning, decision-making, and reporting, focusing on continuous improvement and alignment with organizational goals. Your role will cultivate vendor relationships, manage inventory, address escalated issues, and ensure compliance with regulations. You will also collaborate on forecasting and demand planning, driving efficiency and profitability through effective resource allocation and operational improvements. Your responsibilities will include:

Team Leadership and Supervision:
Supervise and mentor a team, tracking KPIs and providing guidance, training, and performance feedback.
Delegate tasks and assignments effectively, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and priorities.
Foster a collaborative and positive work environment, promoting teamwork and professional development within the team.
Take escalations from the logistics coordinator, providing support and guidance in resolving complex issues or challenges.

Reporting and Analysis:
Develop and maintain key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the performance of logistics operations.
Analyze data and metrics to identify trends, patterns, and opportunities for improvement in logistics processes and performance.
Prepare regular reports and presentations on logistics performance, highlighting achievements, challenges, and actionable insights for senior management.
Strategic Planning and Decision-Making:
Collaborate with senior management, including the CEO, to develop and execute strategic plans for logistics operations that align with the company's overall objectives.
Provide input and recommendations on logistics-related investments, initiatives, and partnerships to support business growth and expansion.
Make informed decisions on logistics priorities, resource allocation, and operational improvements to drive efficiency and profitability.
Logistics Management:
Oversee and optimize all logistics operations, including transportation, warehousing, and distribution, ensuring efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
Develop and implement strategies to streamline logistics processes, improve efficiency, and reduce costs.
Coordinate with carriers, freight forwarders, and third-party logistics providers (3PLs) to ensure timely delivery of goods and materials.
Supervise inventory levels and collaborate with procurement and warehouse teams to maintain optimal stock levels and prevent stockouts.
Address and resolve escalated logistics-related issues and challenges, such as shipping delays, damaged goods, or customs clearance issues.

Vendor Relationship Management:
Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with vendors, suppliers, and service providers to ensure reliable and cost-effective logistics solutions.
Monitor vendor performance and compliance with contractual obligations, addressing any issues or concerns as needed.
Collaborate with vendors to identify and implement process improvements, innovations, and value-added services.
Support the CEO in vendor negotiation processes to optimize cost savings and service levels.
Forecasting and Demand Planning:
Collaborate with the accounting/finance team on forecasting and demand planning for production.
To develop accurate and actionable forecasts, utilize cash flow analysis, sales data, future sales projections, and sensitivity testing.
Ensure alignment between logistics planning and production scheduling by working closely with cross-functional teams.
Proactively identify potential supply chain bottlenecks or capacity constraints and develop contingency plans to mitigate risks.
Compliance and Risk Management:
Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations and standards governing logistics operations, including transportation safety regulations and import/export laws.
Implement and oversee risk management strategies to mitigate potential disruptions or issues in logistics operations, such as supply chain disruptions or security risks.
Regularly review and update operational policies and procedures to ensure ongoing compliance and risk mitigation.

What you should have

Background in business, supply chain management, or related field.
At least 7 years of experience in logistics, supply chain, or operations management, with a proven track record of overseeing and optimizing logistics operations.
At least 5 years of experience as a Team Leader or Supervisor.
Strong knowledge of logistics processes and supply chain management principles.
Excellent leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and develop a high-performing team.
Proficiency in logistics management software and systems.
Familiarity with relevant regulations and compliance requirements in logistics and transportation.
Experience in managing projects, including planning, execution, and monitoring, with a focus on meeting deadlines and achieving project goals.
Experience in implementing risk management strategies to mitigate potential disruptions and ensure continuity of operations.
Superior written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively interact with internal teams, vendors, and senior leadership.

Who you are

Success in this position involves the CEO trusting you for daily operational decisions, interpreting vendor communications effectively, and maintaining clear and natural communication with them. It's also about knowing when to address issues directly or escalate them appropriately In this regard, they are hoping you are:

A highly organized leader with a keen eye for detail, a systematic approach to managing logistics operations, and a knack for delegating tasks.
An excellent communicator with great interpersonal skills to foster positive vendor and workplace relationships.
A swift problem-solver who can identify issues and implement innovative solutions to optimize logistics processes.