National Air Logistics Operations Optimization Manager

It's more than a job

As a member of the Freight Forwarding team Kuehne+Nagel, you will play a key role in transporting goods, optimising processes, and fulfilling our customers' promises. And by transporting medicines, toys and important machine parts, you are not only delivering goods, you are making small and big moments possible for people all around the world. At Kuehne+Nagel, our contribution counts in more ways than we imagine.

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Kuehne+Nagel is seeking a dynamic and results-driven National Air Logistics Operations Optimization Manager to lead transformational initiatives across our U.S. Air Logistics Operations network. In this highly visible role, you will drive operational excellence through process improvement, automation, standardization, and strategic optimization initiatives that enhance service delivery while improving operational efficiency.

Role can be seated in the following locations: Chicago, Los Angeles, Dallas or Atlanta.

You will partner closely with operational leaders across Customer Care, Operational Care, Revenue Care, Gateway, Systems & Technology, Global Services (KNGS), and Global Air Logistics teams to identify opportunities, implement solutions, and champion change across the organization.

This is an ideal opportunity for an experienced Air Logistics professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment, embraces continuous improvement, and has a passion for transforming operations through people, processes, and technology.

How you create impact

• Lead operational optimization initiatives across the U.S. Air Logistics network.
• Identify, develop, and implement practical solutions that improve operational performance, productivity, and service quality.
• Evaluate and redesign workflows across Customer Care Logistics (CCL), Operational Care Centers (OCC), Revenue Care Centers (RCC), and other operational functions.
• Drive process harmonization and standardization initiatives aligned with global Air Logistics standards.
• Serve as a key stakeholder in operational automation and digital transformation projects.
• Partner with Global Operations Optimization teams on concept development, testing, implementation, and change management activities.
• Collaborate with Kuehne+Nagel Global Services (KNGS) teams to improve operational processes and efficiencies.
• Analyze operational challenges and develop sustainable solutions that improve customer experience and reduce production costs.
• Facilitate stakeholder engagement and gain buy-in for organizational change initiatives.
• Lead operational project implementation, monitoring, adoption, and success management.
• Act as a subject matter expert for Air Logistics operational systems and best practices.
• Travel extensively throughout the U.S. network to conduct workflow reviews, engage operational teams, and support implementation activities.
• Lead and mentor optimization resources and project teams, where applicable

What we would like you to bring

We're seeking a proven Air Logistics leader who combines operational expertise, process improvement experience, strong stakeholder management skills, and a passion for driving organizational change and operational excellence.

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business, Product Management, or a related field; Master's degree preferred.
• 5+ years of Air Logistics operational experience with a strong understanding of service delivery, operational workflows, and customer-focused logistics solutions.
• Proven success leading process improvement, operational excellence, transformation, automation, or optimization initiatives.
• Strong project management skills with the ability to lead complex initiatives and deliver measurable business results.
• Extensive knowledge of Air Logistics operations, carrier relationships, and operational best practices.
• Advanced knowledge of Air Logistics systems such as SALOG, BPA, CareLOG, eTouch, or similar operational platforms.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making capabilities with a focus on sustainable operational improvements.
• Ability to influence stakeholders, build cross-functional partnerships, and gain buy-in across multiple teams and locations.
• Exceptional communication, presentation, and relationship-building skills.
• Positive, self-starting, and can-do attitude with the confidence to challenge the status quo and drive meaningful change.
• Demonstrated change management experience with the ability to successfully lead transformation initiatives in complex operational environments.
• Strong technical aptitude and the ability to quickly learn new systems, technologies, and operational processes.
• High attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and the ability to perform effectively under pressure while managing multiple priorities.
• Experience collaborating with global stakeholders, Global Services (KNGS), and cross-functional operational teams is highly desirable.
• Prior experience leading operational optimization, process harmonization, automation, or transformation initiatives across multiple locations is strongly preferred.
• International Air Logistics experience is a plus.
• Willingness and ability to travel up to 50% to support operational reviews, implementations, and continuous improvement initiatives across the national network.
• Fluent English language proficiency required.
• Passion for continuous improvement, operational excellence, and creating scalable solutions that enhance efficiency and service delivery.
• A collaborative leadership style with the ability to engage frontline teams, operational leaders, and executive stakeholders alike.
• Proven ability to drive change, influence outcomes, and create lasting impact across a complex Air Logistics organization.

What's in it for you

At Kuehne+Nagel we strive daily to inspire, empower, and deliver not only to our customers, but also to our colleagues. We offer a dynamic global work environment with opportunities for excellent training programs and career mobility. The hourly wage range for this position is between $85,000 and $90,00 annually. Base wage is part of a competitive total rewards package that includes health and welfare benefits, a 401k retirement savings plan, tuition reimbursement, and incentive compensation for eligible roles. Individual pay may vary from the target range and is determined by a number of factors including experience, skills, job location, internal pay equity, and other relevant business considerations. Kuehne+Nagel reviews pay ranges regularly to ensure competitive and fair pay based on industry market data. #LI-SB1  

Kuehne+Nagel participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S. Employers can only use E-Verify once you have accepted a job offer and completed the Form I-9.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used to assist in specific process [e.g., screening applications, interview scheduling]. These tools analyze information to support decision-making, but final decisions are made by human reviewers.

Who we are

Logistics shapes everyday life - from the goods we consume to the healthcare we rely on. At Kuehne+Nagel, your work goes beyond logistics; it enables both ordinary and special moments in the lives of people around the world.

As a global leader with a strong heritage and a vision to move the world forward, we offer a safe, stable environment where your career can make a real difference. Whether we help deliver life-saving medicines, develop sustainable transportation solutions or support our local communities, your career will contribute to more than you can imagine.

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