Vice President of Freight Forwarding

Reports To: Executive Vice President of Modal Operations

Location: Chicago, IL

Environment: Hybrid

Status: Exempt; Salaried

Work Schedule:

This position is full-time and hybrid Monday through Friday.

Who We Are:

Recognized by Gartner in their Modern 4PL Market Guide, Redwood Logistics is at the forefront of industry innovation. Our cutting-edge supply chain technology pairs with the expertise of our brilliant minds to empower logistics execution across North America and Mexico.

Leveraging a comprehensive range of services, data-centric network solutions, and a seamlessly integrated platform, we have established our prominence as a key player in the mid-market segment within the freight tech industry.

Our Freight Forwarding services provides efficient and reliable logistics solutions to our clients worldwide. With a strong commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction, we specialize in seamlessly managing the transportation of goods across borders, ensuring timely delivery and cost-effective solutions.

Whether you’re just starting your career or are an established professional looking for your next opportunity, Redwood inspires innovation across teams to provide transformative solutions for our customers.

Purpose of Your Work:

As Vice President of Freight Forwarding, working within Supply Chain Solutions (one of our entities), you will play a pivotal role in driving the strategic direction and operational excellence of our global freight forwarding division. You will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of our international freight operations, building a team of managers and specialists to deliver exceptional service to our clients.

How You Make a Difference Everyday:

Strategic Leadership:

• Develop and implement strategic initiatives to drive growth and profitability in our international freight forwarding division.
• Analyze market trends, competitor activities, and industry regulations to identify opportunities and mitigate risks.
• Collaborate with senior leadership to align freight forwarding strategies with overall company objectives.

Operational Management:

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of our international freight forwarding services, ensuring efficiency, accuracy, and compliance with all relevant regulations.
• Optimize processes and workflows to enhance operational effectiveness and customer satisfaction.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to track performance and identify areas for improvement.

Client Relationship Management:

• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with key clients, understanding their unique needs and ensuring that our freight forwarding services exceed their expectations.
• Collaborate with the sales and business development teams to identify opportunities for expansion and revenue growth.

Agent Relationship Management:

• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with existing and potential global agents forging mutually beneficial business continuity and growth based on the various needs of our clients.

Team Leadership and Development:

• Provide strong leadership to the international freight forwarding team, fostering a culture of accountability, innovation, and continuous improvement.
• Mentor and develop team members, empowering them to reach their full potential and contribute to the success of the division.

Compliance and Risk Management:

• Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations, including customs requirements, trade regulations, and transportation laws.
• Implement risk management strategies to mitigate potential liabilities and safeguard the company's interests.

You’ve Got This?

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, or a related field; master's degree preferred.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in international freight forwarding, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.
• Proven track record of success in driving growth and profitability in a global logistics environment.
• Strong strategic planning and analytical skills, with the ability to translate insights into actionable initiatives.
• Excellent leadership and communication skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate teams.
• Deep understanding of international trade regulations and customs procedures.
• Proficiency in relevant software and technology platforms used in the freight forwarding industry.
• Experience and willingness to travel overseas to identify and strengthen overseas agents.

What We Offer:

• Access to experts and resources for your Learning & Development journey
• Opportunity for internal mobility
• Employee referral bonus program
• Employee Resource Groups (ERGs)
• Annual fundraising and volunteer events to give back to communities
• Paid time off, floating holidays, time off to volunteer and rollover
• Paid parental leave
• Medical, dental, vision and 401k plans (with match)
• Flexible spending account, mass transit and dependent care plans available
• Health savings account, with a annual company contribution for plan participants
• Short-term and long-term disability; life insurance policies subsidized by company
• Additional benefits including pet insurance, accident care, access to legal advice and more

Redwood is an equal opportunity employer.  Employment decisions at the Company are based on individual merit, qualifications, abilities, and the Company’s needs and resources.  The Company does not discriminate in recruiting, hiring, compensation, promotions, discipline, termination or any other aspect of employment on the basis of an individual’s actual or perceived race, color, creed, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, disability, marital status, military service or status, genetic information, arrest and conviction record, credit history, or any other basis protected by applicable law.