Senior Manager, Continuous Improvement & Automation

Overview Salary Range: $109,853-$184,613 The Senior Manager of Continuous Improvement & Automation will help lead the strategy and implementation of process optimization and automation initiatives to transform air freight operations. This role drives efficiency, cost reduction, and quality improvement by identifying waste. The role will lead a team of super users to help monitor proper KPI adherence at the Gemba sites. The role helps streamline the integration of new clients. They manage communication, assist in developing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), coordinate internal teams (operations, IT), and ensure client requirements are met, maximizing long‑term retention and satisfaction. The goal is to enhance client satisfaction and employee productivity through digital transformation, standardized processes, and shared services optimization. Responsibilities New Client Integration Client Communication: Act as the primary contact for new clients, setting expectations, conducting kick-off meetings, and managing technical integrations. SOP Development: Create and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Internal Operating Procedures (IOPs) to ensure operational accuracy. Stakeholder Coordination: Collaborate with internal departments (sales, operations, IT, customs) to ensure a smooth transition to operational teams. Onboarding Optimization: Monitor onboarding health metrics and gather feedback to refine processes and improve efficiency. Process Optimization & Lean Methodology Apply Lean/Six Sigma principles to reduce cycle time and lead times in freight booking, customs documentation, and warehousing. Facilitate Kaizen events and Kaikaku teams (breakthrough improvements) to overhaul underperforming processes. If necessary, conduct time studies to establish standards for logistics and forwarding tasks. Automation & Digital Transformation Partner with IT to identify, evaluate, and implement technologies such as AI for document processing, intelligent chatbots, and predictive analytics. Optimize existing Transport Management Systems (TMS) to automate manual workflows. Lead "footprint rationalization" initiatives to improve facility workflows and cargo flow. Performance Management & Data Analysis Provide input for establishing KPIs to measure improvement impact, focusing on cost reduction, productivity, documentation accuracy, and on‑time performance. Provide input for creating visual management dashboards for real‑time performance tracking. Analyze operational data to identify bottlenecks. Change Management & Coaching Serve as a change agent, fostering a culture of continuous improvement across all levels of the organization. Coach site managers and staff on process improvement methodologies, mentoring future Lean practitioners. Qualifications Education/Experience: Bachelor’s degree and/or 10+ years of progressive experience in logistics, freight forwarding. 2-4 years of experience in a continuous improvement/system administrator role preferably in the supply chain industry. Certifications: CW1 Professional Level Certification. Technical Skills: Deep knowledge of TMS, WMS, and ERP systems. Experience with RPA tools (e.g., UiPath, Automation Anywhere) and data analytics tools (Power BI, Tableau) is highly desirable. Industry Knowledge: Strong understanding of Air/Ocean freight forwarding processes, including customs compliance, Incoterms, and documentation. Soft Skills: Strong leadership and influencing skills, excellent communication, and a passion for challenging the status quo. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) Percentage reduction in manual documentation time (share service usage increase or RPA). Reduction in cost per shipment. Improvement in on‑time performance and documentation accuracy. Annual savings run‑rate target (cost reduction). Customer satisfaction score (CSAT) during onboarding. Percentage of projects completed on time and within scope. Office/Hybrid–Working Conditions Work is primarily performed in an office environment with moderate noise levels. Involves prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and frequent use of computers and office equipment. Regular use of hands and fingers, including typing, filing, and keyboarding. Occasional lifting or moving of office supplies or equipment up to 25 pounds. Requires strong analytical, decision‑making, and critical‑thinking skills. Must be able to read, interpret, and compose clear written and verbal communications. Visual acuity required for tasks including computer work, document review, and data analysis. Must maintain strong organizational skills, confidentiality, and independent work habits. Adaptability to changing priorities and effective professional communication with colleagues and customers. Regular, punctual attendance and compliance with all company policies and procedures; occasional overtime may be required. On‑Site Requirements: In‑office presence required for meetings, team events and scheduled days. Must be able to work as part of a functional team including working in an office on a Hybrid Schedule as required by company policy. Benefits Medical, Dental, and Vision beginning the 1st of the month following start date. 401k with a company match. Standard 10 days PTO. Eligible for bonus plan. 7 Paid Holidays. Eligible for OT pay if applicable. Flexible Spending Accounts, Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment Insurance, Short & Long Term Disability, Tuition Assistance Program, Commuter Benefits, vacation, and more. Any and all benefits offered are subject to the eligibility requirements, terms, and provisions set forth in the respective policies and plan documents, which you may request from Human Resources. Yusen Logistics (Americas) Inc. values each individual employee and is committed to a diverse and inclusive workforce by providing equal employment opportunities for all applicants without regard to race, religion, color, sex, national origin, citizenship status, uniform service member status, age, disability, sexual and gender orientation, genetic information, or any other protected status in accordance with all applicable federal, state and local laws. Los Angeles County Only: Yusen Logistics (Americas) Inc. will consider qualified applicants with a criminal history pursuant to the California Fair Chance Act. You do not need to disclose your criminal history or participate in a background check until a conditional job offer is made to you. After making a conditional offer and running a background check, if Yusen Logistics (Americas) Inc. is concerned about a conviction that is directly related to the job, you will be given the chance to explain the circumstances surrounding the conviction, provide mitigating evidence, or challenge the accuracy of the background report. #J-18808-Ljbffr