SR Director
Universal Logistics
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Universal Logistics is a leading provider of customized transportation and logistics solutions, offering a comprehensive suite of services including transportation, value-added, intermodal, and specialized services utilized throughout entire supply chains.
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Logistics Insight Corporation (LINC), a subsidiary of Universal Logistics Holdings, is seeking a Director of Launch Operations to lead the successful startup, implementation, and stabilization of new operational initiatives across our network.
This individual will provide strategic leadership for launch activities, oversee cross-functional project execution, and ensure new operations are implemented efficiently and effectively. The ideal candidate will possess a strong operational background, exceptional leadership skills, and the ability to manage multiple large-scale initiatives simultaneously.
This position will be based in Warren, MI. Travel will be required as needed to support operational startups, site implementations, customer requirements, and business initiatives.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the planning, execution, and management of operational startups, implementations, and business expansion initiatives.
- Provide strategic direction and oversight for launch teams, ensuring project milestones, timelines, and deliverables are achieved.
- Partner with Operations, Engineering, Safety, HR, Finance, IT, and Executive Leadership to ensure successful execution of new business opportunities.
- Establish and maintain project governance, communication plans, and executive-level reporting.
- Identify operational risks, develop mitigation strategies, and drive issue resolution throughout the implementation process.
- Oversee staffing plans, training initiatives, operational readiness assessments, and startup execution.
- Ensure consistency in launch processes, documentation, and best practices across multiple projects.
- Support post-launch stabilization efforts and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
- Develop and mentor Project Managers and launch team members while fostering a culture of accountability and operational excellence.
- Serve as a key liaison between field operations and corporate leadership throughout implementation efforts.
Qualifications
Required
- Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain, Logistics, Engineering, Project Management, Operations Management, or a related field.
- 8+ years of experience in operations, logistics, supply chain, manufacturing, project management, implementation, or startup leadership.
- 5+ years of leadership experience managing teams, projects, or operational functions.
- Proven ability to lead complex, cross-functional initiatives from planning through execution.
- Strong communication, organizational, and leadership skills.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Excel, PowerPoint, and Project Management tools.
Preferred
- Experience supporting logistics, warehousing, transportation, automotive, manufacturing, or distribution operations.
- Previous experience leading startup, implementation, launch, or business integration activities.
- Experience managing large-scale operational projects across multiple locations.
- Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Lean Logistics, or Continuous Improvement methodologies.
- Experience working in customer-facing operational environments.