Logistics & Transportation Services Manager

Date: Oct 2, 2024

Location: Saudi Arabia

Company: King Abdullah University of Science & Technology

Job Purpose

The Logistics & Transportation Services Manager oversees and optimizes the logistics and transportation operations at KAUST. This role involves managing the supply chain process, ensuring the effective delivery of goods, managing a diverse range of mobility services/offers, and maintaining compliance with regulations. The manager collaborates with various departments to enhance operational efficiency and reduce costs. This role underscores a strong commitment to innovation, sustainability, and business continuity.

 

This role includes managing several KAUST team members and coordinating with 10+ business partners, encompassing over 200+ indirect employees. The Manager will ensure efficient and cost-effective transportation, material handling, mail & courier services, personal effects management, and travel arrangements.   

 

 

Major Accountabilities

 

Leadership and Team Management:

  • Implement logistics and transportation services strategies to improve operational efficiency and reduce costs.
  • Analyze market trends and adjust Logistics & Transportation strategies accordingly.
  • Supervise and mentor KAUST team, fostering a collaborative and high-performance culture.
  • Conduct regular performance evaluations and provide constructive feedback and professional development opportunities.
  • Coordinate activities and schedules to optimize resources and improve service delivery.

Transportation Management:

  • Develop and implement transportation policies and procedures to ensure compliance with legal and safety regulations.
  • Oversee the planning and execution of transportation logistics, including route optimization and fleet management.
  • Monitor and analyze transportation metrics to identify areas for improvement and cost-saving opportunities.

Material Management:

  • Manage the procurement, storage, and distribution of materials and supplies within KAUST.
  • Implement inventory control systems to minimize waste and ensure the availability of necessary materials.
  • Collaborate with Suppliers and service providers to enhance material sourcing and delivery processes.

Mail & Courier Services:

  • Oversee the mail and courier operations, ensuring timely and secure delivery of correspondence and packages.
  • Develop and enforce protocols for handling sensitive documents and materials.
  • Evaluate performance metrics of mail and courier services to enhance efficiency and service quality.

Personal Effects Managements:

  • Manage the logistics related to personal effects, ensuring secure handling and timely delivery of service.
  • Establish procedures for tracking and reporting personal effects shipments.
  • Work with service providers to resolve any discrepancies related to personal effects services.

Travel Services Management:

  • Oversee travel arrangements for KAUST members through a KAUST business partner, ensuring adherence to KAUST policies and operational constraints.
  • Negotiate contracts with travel service providers to secure favorable rates and services.
  • Monitor travel expenditures and implement cost-saving measures where appropriate.

Vendor and Service Provider Coordination:

  • Act as the primary liaison between KAUST and Logistics & Transportation service providers.
  • Evaluate vendor performance and negotiate contracts to ensure quality service delivery.
  • Conduct regular reviews and audits of service providers to ensure compliance with service-level agreements.

Budgeting and Financial Management:

  • Develop and manage the operational budget for transportation, material management, mail & courier, personal effects, and travel services.
  • Monitor expenditures, prepare financial reports, and identify opportunities for cost reduction.
  • Forecast and report on budget variations, ensuring alignment with Campus & Community financial goals.
  • Develop and manage Key performance indicators (KPIs) for contracts to ensure compliance, monitor performance, and drive continuous improvements in service delivery.

Compliance and Safety:

  • Ensure all operations comply with KAUST policy, procedures, and regulations regarding transportation, material handling, and travel.
  • Implement safety programs and staff training to minimize risks associated with logistics and transportation services.
  • Stay updated on industry trends and regulatory changes that may affect operations.

Continuous Improvements:

  • Identify and implement best practices to enhance operational efficiency and service quality.
  • Foster a culture of continuous improvement by encouraging feedback and innovative ideas from team members.
  • Lead initiatives to adopt new technologies and systems that streamline logistics and Transportation operations. 
  • Evaluate service provider program proposals and collaborate to develop new and engaging program offerings that align with the community's needs and the organization's strategic objectives.
  • Actively seek sponsorship opportunities, partnerships, and collaborations with business partners and other relevant organizations to expand the reach and impact of the logistics and transportation services.
  • Assist and oversee Capital Programs related to scope of managed services when required.
  • Support the Assets Management Program when needed.
  • Provide support as directed by the line manager.

 

Person Requirements

Competencies

  • Demonstrates a strong understanding of the KAUST community's mobility and logistics needs and interests.
  • Strong leadership and team management skills.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities effectively.
  • Flexible and adaptable work style.
  • Strong influencing and negotiating style and experience.
  • Displays a high level of initiative, creativity, and organizational skills, managing tasks efficiently and independently.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

 

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in business, Logistics, Supply chain management, or a related field.

Experience

  • 6+ years of experience in logistics, transportation, or supply chain management, with at least three years in a managerial/lead role.
  • Previous experience in tendering and contracting to national and international service partners.
  • Management of contract KPIs.
  • Proficient in logistics software, inventory management systems, and Microsoft Office suite.
  • Experience with corporate travel contracts preferred.

Other

  • This role may require occasional travel to meet with service providers or attend industry events.
  • Involve working in an office environment as well as well as on-site at various logistics and transportation facilities.
  • Supports the Head, of Community Services in promoting and marketing logistics and transportation programs, activities, and events through various channels.