Logistics Manager
Grand Rapids, MI
Partner Position – 8485 /
Full-time /
Hybrid
Logistics Manager - Grand Rapids, Michigan
DISHER is partnering with a global foam cleaning equipment company in Grand Rapids, MI to fill their Logistics Manager position. This company designs and builds chemical management and application equipment, specializing in foam cleaning solutions such as foam, fog, spray, gel, and more. They provide customized solutions for a wide range of industries, ensuring that each application is tailored to meet specific cleaning needs and optimize efficiency. As a critical member of the Operations team, the Logistics Manager oversees all aspects of domestic and international logistics operations while developing the processes and compliance programs needed to scale. This hybrid role blends hands-on coordination, team leadership, and trade compliance expertise. The Logistics Manager will be responsible for ensuring shipments move efficiently, economically, and in full compliance with U.S. and international trade laws.
What It's like to work here:
Founded in the 1980s after recognizing the need for effective, easy-to-use foaming equipment, this company has grown into a trusted leader in the foam cleaning industry. The team is dedicated to providing innovative, high-quality cleaning technologies that deliver both effective and efficient results, all while maintaining a focus on exceptional customer support. Every employee plays a key role in upholding the company’s commitment to excellence. The work environment fosters creativity and collaboration, encouraging everyone to contribute to the company’s mission of delivering outstanding products and services worldwide. As a part of this dynamic and growth-oriented company, you'll be joining a team that is passionate about advancing cleaning technologies and helping customers achieve their goals with the best equipment available.
What you will get to do:
- Manage all domestic and international shipments, overseeing carrier movements including ARL and CM Truck services.
- Schedule and coordinate third-party carrier pickups, ensuring timely, cost-effective transportation.
- Act as the primary point of escalation for logistics issues, including: Lost, delayed, or damaged shipments. Freight claims and customs holds. Dangerous goods shipments, ensuring compliance with relevant regulations (IATA, IMDG, DOT).
- Maintain deep expertise in U.S. trade law, including Incoterms, Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), Export Control Classification Numbers (ECCN), Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), Country of Origin (COO) rules, and export/import documentation.
- Stay up to date on evolving trade compliance regulations and ensure operational adherence to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) requirements.
- Ensure proper classification of products under the HTS and NMFC (National Motor Freight Classification) standards.
- Establish and manage a duty drawback program to recover eligible duties and tariffs.
- Oversee the preparation and accuracy of all shipping documentation, including Bills of Lading (BOL), Commercial Invoices (CI), Shipper’s Letters of Instruction (SLI), Certificates of Origin, and other export/import records.
- Carrier Management and Cost Optimization
- Negotiate contracts with freight carriers and brokers to maximize cost savings, service levels, and shipping efficiency.
- Conduct regular audits of carrier performance and competitiveness in both import and export lanes.
- Obtain and analyze multiple freight quotes to ensure optimal value and service; provide recommendations and guidance to internal stakeholders based on quote analysis.
- Develop, document, and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) for all logistics and trade compliance functions.
- Maintain and update logistics data in PaceJet and other systems, including: Freight rate structures and markups. Box configurations and specifications. HTS codes, NMFC codes, and trade compliance attributes
- Advise on and evaluate logistics and trade compliance software solutions to support process improvements and regulatory adherence.
- Provide proactive updates to Order Entry and internal stakeholders regarding shipping methods, Incoterm requirements, documentation needs, and customer-specific instructions.
- Act as the in-house subject matter expert for logistics and trade compliance, supporting operations and leadership teams with regulatory insights and process improvements.
- Directly manage and mentor one logistics team member, ensuring consistent execution and professional development.
- Foster a culture of continuous improvement, accountability, and compliance across the logistics function.
What will make you successful:
- 5+ years of experience in logistics management, with a focus on international trade compliance and freight operations.
- Prior supervisory or team leadership experience required.
- Expertise in U.S. trade law, including HTS classification, Incoterms, ECCN, FTAs, COO, and duty drawback programs.
- Strong understanding of freight classifications (NMFC) and dangerous goods regulations (IATA, IMDG, DOT).
- Experience with logistics software (PaceJet preferred) and trade compliance systems.
- Exceptional negotiation skills and proven ability to drive cost savings.
- Highly organized with excellent problem-solving and communication skills.
- Ability to work independently and lead process development in a fast-paced environment.