Freight Manager
A freight manager plays a critical role in overseeing and managing the transportation of goods and products for companies. Their primary responsibilities include planning and coordinating shipping and sea freight logistics, negotiating contracts with carriers, and ensuring that shipments are delivered on time and within budget.
By effectively managing relationships with logistics providers and monitoring transportation costs, a freight manager ensures that the flow of goods is both efficient and cost-effective. They are involved in selecting suitable transportation methods and routes, taking into account factors such as speed, safety, and cost, while also following regulatory compliance and environmental standards.
Freight manager job descriptions vary, but you’ll typically report to the director of supply chain or director of logistics. In smaller organizations, their direct report might be the operations manager or even the business owner. Regardless of reporting lines, a freight manager often works closely with various departments, including procurement, sales, and customer service, to ensure that the transportation of goods aligns with broader business objectives.
The skills required
To thrive as a freight manager, you need a robust set of skills that span the technical, analytical, and the personal. You need a strong understanding of logistics and supply chain management principles. This knowledge enables you to plan and coordinate the movement of goods. You must also have an in-depth knowledge of transport regulations and legal requirements.
Your analytical skills allow you to evaluate transportation costs, efficiency, and the reliability of shipping methods. You must be capable of understanding complex data to forecast shipping needs, optimize routes, and manage inventory levels accordingly.
Communication and negotiation skills are equally critical. Negotiating contracts with carriers and suppliers, requires a persuasive and strategic approach to secure favorable terms. Effective communication ensures that you maintain strong relationships with vendors, team members, and customers, helping you smooth operations and swift resolution of any issues that arise.
About DeKalb County, Georgia
DeKalb County, located in north central Georgia, is the state's fourth-most populous county. Its county seat is Decatur, and it is included in the Atlanta–Sandy Springs–Alpharetta, GA Metropolitan Statistical Area. About 10% of the city of Atlanta lies within DeKalb County, making it a significant part of the metro area. The largest cities entirely within the county are Stonecrest, Dunwoody, and Brookhaven. DeKalb County is primarily suburban in character.
The county was formed in 1822 from portions of Henry, Gwinnett, and Fayette counties, it was named after Baron Johann de Kalb, a Bavarian-born officer in the French Army who fought for the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War. Until the 1960s, DeKalb was primarily agricultural, but with the expansion of the metropolitan Atlanta region, it became increasingly urbanized. Today, major employers in DeKalb County include AT&T Mobility, Emory Healthcare, Emory University, and the Kroger Atlanta-area offices.
Living in DeKalb County is characterized by a mix of suburban and urban elements. The county is known for its diversity, being ranked as one of the most diverse counties in Georgia. It's also recognized for being conducive to young professionals and is considered one of the healthiest counties in the state. DeKalb County offers various amenities, including bars, restaurants, coffee shops, and parks, making it an attractive place for families and young professionals.
Industry in DeKalb County
DeKalb boasts a robust and growing manufacturing, logistics, and transportation sector. The manufacturing industry is particularly significant, with 545 manufacturers employing around 12,500 people. This includes well-established companies like WinCup, Sugar Bowl Bakery, and Dart Container Corp. The logistics and distribution sector is equally prominent, with DeKalb positioning itself as a key hub for travel and distribution. The county benefits from its proximity to four major interstates, providing easy access to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport within 30 miles, and the ability to reach the Port of Savannah in less than 4 hours. There are 468 transportation and warehouse facilities in the county, offering a total of 15,200 jobs in this industry. Major players like UPS, Home Depot, FritoLay, Marshalls, and PepsiCo have established their presence in the area.
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Freight manager jobs at Cast USA
Freight managers are highly sought by companies wishing to streamline and strengthen their transportation operations. If you’re an experienced freight manager, please register with Cast USA now. Then we can get to work finding top companies looking for your skills.
Does your operation need a talented freight manager? Get in touch with Cast USA here, we’re ready to give you a fantastic shortlist of highly motivated candidates to help keep your freight moving efficiently and profitably.
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