Senior Transportation Operations Manager – Strategic Logistics, 3PL Leadership, Continuous Improvement & Supply Chain Optimization at arenaflex

About arenaflex

arenaflex is a global leader in fresh‑produce sourcing, packaging, and distribution, renowned for delivering premium berries and other specialty fruits to retailers and consumers worldwide. With a heritage spanning more than a century, arenaflex combines deep agricultural expertise with cutting‑edge logistics technology to ensure that every fruit travels from farm to table with optimal freshness, safety, and efficiency. Our commitment to sustainability, innovation, and a people‑first culture makes arenaflex a dynamic place to build a career that truly makes a difference.

Why This Role Matters

As the Senior Transportation Operations Manager, you will be the strategic architect of arenaflex’s California transportation network—a critical hub that supports the company’s growth ambitions, seasonal peaks, and continuous‑improvement initiatives. You will lead a high‑performing team of transportation supervisors, partner with third‑party logistics providers (3PLs), and drive transformative projects that enhance capacity, reduce costs, and elevate service levels across the entire supply chain.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Network Management: Own the end‑to‑end transportation and distribution operations for all California facilities, ensuring a resilient, cost‑effective, and scalable network that meets seasonal demand fluctuations.
• 3PL Leadership: Direct and oversee 3PL relationships, negotiate service contracts, implement performance‑based routing and scheduling systems, and continuously improve service metrics.
• Continuous Improvement (CI) & Lean Practices: Lead the development and execution of Continuous Improvement initiatives, including Lean Six Sigma projects, to drive efficiency, reduce waste, and improve on‑time‑in‑full (OTIF) performance.
• Cross‑Functional Collaboration: Partner with Procurement, Production, Quality Assurance, Finance, and Sales teams to align transportation strategies with broader business objectives and to support new product launches, seasonal peaks, and market expansion.
• Performance Monitoring & Reporting: Track, analyze, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) such as cost per mile, capacity utilization, carbon emissions, and service level agreements (SLAs). Present weekly and monthly dashboards to senior leadership and farmer councils.
• Budget & Capital Planning: Develop and manage the annual operating and capital expenditure budgets for the transportation function, ensuring alignment with corporate financial targets.
• Regulatory & Safety Compliance: Ensure all transportation activities comply with OSHA, FDA, and state regulations, and uphold Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) related to food safety and sanitation.
• Team Development & Leadership: Mentor, coach, and develop transportation supervisors and staff, fostering a culture of empowerment, accountability, and continuous learning.
• Technology Enablement: Champion the adoption of advanced logistics technologies such as Transportation Management Systems (TMS), automation, robotics, and cold‑chain innovations to future‑proof arenaflex’s network.
• Stakeholder Communication: Serve as the primary point of contact for growers, customers, and internal partners, communicating network changes, performance results, and improvement plans with transparency and professionalism.

Essential Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, Industrial Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum 10 years of progressive experience in transportation, distribution, or warehousing, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role overseeing large‑scale logistics operations.
• Demonstrated expertise managing 3PL relationships and implementing transportation management systems.
• Proven track record of delivering measurable cost savings, capacity enhancements, and service level improvements through Lean, Six Sigma, or other continuous‑improvement methodologies.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex data sets, develop actionable insights, and influence decision‑making at the executive level.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, capable of influencing cross‑functional teams and external partners.
• Valid California driver’s license and eligibility to operate company‑provided vehicles under the corporate insurance program.
• Willingness to travel within California (up to 30% of time) to oversee site operations, conduct audits, and support field initiatives.

Preferred Qualifications & Skills

• Master’s degree or MBA with a focus on supply chain or operations management.
• Certification in Lean Six Sigma (Green Belt or Black Belt).
• Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish – highly valued for effective communication with growers and regional partners.
• Experience in fresh‑produce or perishable goods logistics, including cold‑chain management and food safety compliance.
• Familiarity with advanced analytics tools (e.g., Power BI, Tableau) and ERP/TMS platforms such as SAP, Oracle, or Manhattan Associates.
• Demonstrated ability to lead large, matrixed teams and manage change in fast‑paced, high‑growth environments.

Core Competencies

• Strategic Vision: Ability to anticipate future logistics needs, develop long‑term roadmaps, and align transportation strategy with corporate growth plans.
• Problem Solving: Strong logical reasoning to diagnose network bottlenecks, evaluate alternatives, and implement effective solutions.
• Leadership & Influence: Inspire teams, build consensus, and drive performance across diverse stakeholder groups.
• Customer Focus: Commitment to delivering exceptional service to growers, retailers, and end‑consumers.
• Financial Acumen: Understanding of cost structures, budgeting processes, and ROI analysis for logistics investments.
• Technology Savvy: Passion for leveraging automation, data analytics, and emerging technologies to modernize transportation operations.

Career Growth & Learning Opportunities

arenaflex invests heavily in the professional development of its leaders. In this role, you will have access to:

• Executive mentorship programs with senior supply chain leaders.
• Funding for industry certifications (e.g., CSCMP, APICS, Six Sigma).
• Cross‑functional rotation opportunities to broaden expertise in procurement, production, and sales.
• Participation in global logistics conferences and innovation workshops.
• Leadership training focused on change management, strategic thinking, and people development.

Successful performance can lead to broader regional responsibilities, such as overseeing transportation networks across multiple states or stepping into a Vice President of Supply Chain role.

Work Environment & Culture at arenaflex

Our culture is built on collaboration, integrity, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. At arenaflex you will experience:

• A fast‑paced, mission‑driven environment where every decision impacts the freshness and safety of the food on consumers’ tables.
• Inclusive teams that value diverse perspectives and encourage open dialogue.
• Commitment to sustainability, with initiatives aimed at reducing carbon emissions, optimizing route efficiency, and supporting local growers.
• Flexible work arrangements that balance on‑site presence with remote productivity tools.
• Recognition programs that celebrate innovative ideas, safety milestones, and outstanding service delivery.

Compensation, Perks & Benefits

arenaflex offers a competitive total rewards package designed to attract and retain top talent. While exact figures will be discussed during the interview process, the package typically includes:

• Base salary range of $35,000 – $40,000 per year, commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Performance‑based bonuses tied to cost‑saving initiatives, KPI achievements, and overall business results.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance for employees and eligible dependents.
• Life and disability insurance coverage for full‑time team members.
• 401(k) plan with company match and profit‑sharing contributions.
• Paid time off (PTO), paid holidays, and paid parental leave.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) providing confidential counseling and support services.
• Opportunities for tuition reimbursement and continuous learning.
• Company‑provided vehicle insurance program and mileage reimbursement for business travel.

How to Apply

If you are a forward‑thinking logistics leader with a passion for fresh‑produce supply chains and a track record of delivering operational excellence, we want to hear from you. Join arenaflex and help shape the future of sustainable, high‑quality food distribution.

Apply Now – Start Your Journey with arenaflex!