Carrier Relations Specialist

Key Responsibilities Build and maintain productive relationships with contracted transportation providers. Serve as the primary point of contact for carrier inquiries, escalations, and performance discussions. Monitor carrier service metrics including on-time delivery (OTD), tender acceptance and communication effectiveness by conducting weekly calls with an assigned book of carriers Conduct quarterly carrier business reviews and communicate performance expectations. Conduct carrier sourcing, onboarding, qualification, and network expansion initiatives. Collaborate with various Ashley teams involved in transportation network to learn carrier capacity needs and use that knowledge to source carrier solutions Ensure carriers remain compliant with company, customer, regulatory, insurance, and safety requirements Collaborate with transportation operations teams to address service failures, capacity constraints, and network disruptions. Analyze carrier scorecards, trends, and operational data to identify opportunities for improvement. Coordinate corrective action plans for carriers that fail to meet established performance standards. Partner with procurement, transportation, customer service, and distribution center teams to ensure seamless execution of freight movement. Monitor market conditions, carrier capacity trends, and industry developments that may impact transportation operations. Support strategic initiatives focused on service optimization, cost reduction, and carrier network sustainability. Provide assistance and collaboration on additional projects as directed Required Qualifications 2-5 years of experience in transportation, logistics, carrier management, freight brokerage, or supply chain operations. Strong understanding of transportation operations including truckload, LTL, intermodal, and distribution networks. Experience working with Transportation Management Systems (TMS) and logistics reporting tools. Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Outlook, and data analysis tools. Excellent communication, negotiation, and relationship management skills. Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret performance metrics and recommend solutions. Ability to respond effectively to transportation disruptions and time-sensitive operational issues. Preferred Qualifications Experience managing carrier performance metrics. Knowledge of DOT regulations, FMCSA compliance requirements, and transportation safety standards. Experience supporting carrier procurement or sourcing activities. Familiarity with freight audit and payment processes. APICS, CSCMP, or other supply chain certifications preferred. Core Competencies Relationship Management Problem Solving Data Analysis Communication and Influence Customer Focus Negotiation Decision Making Continuous Improvement Attention to Detail Strategic Thinking Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) On-Time Delivery Performance Tender Acceptance Rate Carrier Compliance Rate Capacity Coverage Carrier Retention Carrier Scorecard Improvement Escalation Resolution Time Network Service Reliability This position plays a critical role in ensuring a reliable, compliant, and cost-effective transportation network that supports the company's distribution objectives and customer service commitments. Equal Opportunity Employer This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights (https://www.eeoc.gov/poster) notice from the Department of Labor.

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