What are the responsibilities and job description for the Corporate Transportation Manager position at Grain Millers?
Who we are.
Grain Millers, Inc. is a leading manufacturer and merchandiser of whole grain ingredients utilized in food products served around the world. While you may not know us directly, you almost certainly know our products. We have supplied food ingredients to virtually every large food company in the world for over 38 years. We employ nearly 1000 associates throughout North America. Our Eden Prairie, MN headquarters, is the hub of our support infrastructure. Our manufacturing facilities are in MN, IA, WI, IN, OR and Canada.
Why we need you.
Our Eden Prairie office is seeking a Corporate Transportation Manager. You'll play a critical role in optimizing our freight expenses and ensuring smooth logistics operations across multiple plant locations. Your expertise in negotiating transportation contracts, managing railcar fleets, and improving cost efficiencies will help us streamline our supply chain and support our corporate goals.
Who you'll be working with.
You'll report directly to the Corporate Logistics Director and collaborate closely with procurement, sales, and plant logistics teams. Your role will also involve managing external relationships with transportation providers and railcar leasing companies to secure the best rates and services for our operations.
Who you are.
You are a logistics expert with a strong background in transportation management and a have a curiosity to find better ways of doing business. You thrive on analyzing freight costs, negotiating contracts, and finding innovative ways to improve efficiency. Your ability to lead cross-functional teams, manage vendor relationships, and implement strategic transportation solutions will make you a key contributor to our success.
- Execute Transportation Strategy & TMS Implementation - Drive the long-term evolution of our transportation strategy and oversee the implementation of the Oracle Transportation Management System (TMS).
- Freight Spend & Cost Optimization - Manage corporate freight expenses across multiple plant locations to ensure efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
- Negotiate Transportation Contracts - Secure competitive rates and services for truckload, LTL, rail (hoppers), intermodal, and international shipping.
- Rail Fleet & Pricing Management - Oversee private lease hopper cars, negotiate leases, and manage rail pricing to optimize utilization and cost savings. Collaborate with Sales and Procurement to ensure the fleet is properly sized.
- Inbound Grain & Logistics Coordination - Manage inbound grain programs and blending projects while providing logistics support for plants without dedicated personnel.
- Vendor & Carrier Network Management - Foster relationships with transportation providers while enhancing the carrier network to reduce overall transportation expenses.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, or a related field.
- 8-10 years in transportation management or logistics coordination.
- Strong negotiation and vendor management abilities.
- Proficiency in data analysis and cost management.
- Knowledge of rail transportation and fleet management (preferred).
- Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
- Experience with Microsoft Office Suite and Transportation Management Systems (TMS), preferably Oracle Transportation Management (OTM).
What we offer.
Grain Millers, Inc. offers a competitive compensation and benefits package including medical; dental; vision; disability and life insurance. We offer a 401k plan with a generous employer match. In addition to our core benefits package, our employees enjoy a beautifully appointed facility in Eden Prairie, MN, including a fitness center, covered parking garage and other amenities that enhance our work environment.
Grain Millers, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where all qualified applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic.
