Transportation Manager

About Kubota

Kubota builds equipment that supports the work and livelihoods of people across North America — from compact tractors to construction equipment and turf care solutions. Our Service Parts Distribution Network ensures customers and dealers receive the parts they need quickly and reliably.

Overview

The Domestic Transportation Manager leads North American transportation operations, overseeing end‑to‑end execution, optimization, and performance management across all domestic modes. This role is responsible for driving strategic initiatives, ensuring cost‑effective and reliable transportation, and developing a high‑performing team of transportation analysts.

This position manages a team of 6–7 direct reports and plays a key role in shaping transportation strategy, carrier partnerships, and continuous improvement initiatives.

What You’ll Do

Leadership & Team Management

• Lead transportation analysts — Manage, coach, and develop a team of 6–7 analysts, including senior‑level talent.

• Set performance expectations — Provide feedback, coaching, and career development support.

• Foster continuous improvement — Build a culture of accountability, collaboration, and process excellence.

• Oversee workload allocation — Manage prioritization and resource planning across the team.

Transportation Strategy & Execution

• Own domestic transportation operations across TL, LTL, parcel, and intermodal.

• Oversee load planning in TMS (e.g., OTM).

• Ensure routing and capacity efficiency across the network.

• Partner on optimization strategies with senior analysts and system owners.

Carrier Management

• Develop strategic carrier relationships to support service and cost goals.

• Oversee carrier KPIs and scorecards including QBRs and performance reviews.

• Drive corrective actions and continuous improvement with carrier partners.

• Lead contract negotiations and rate strategy with procurement.

Analytics & Continuous Improvement

• Guide analytics-driven decision making to identify cost savings and service improvements.

• Validate KPI reporting and performance insights.

• Sponsor CI initiatives including automation, process redesign, and SOP development.

• Align transportation initiatives with broader supply chain goals.

Cross‑Functional Collaboration

• Partner with distribution and planning to resolve complex transportation challenges.

• Support network design and strategic projects.

• Communicate performance to leadership including risks and opportunities.

Governance & Reporting

• Own executive‑level reporting for domestic transportation.

• Ensure data accuracy and actionable insights.

• Manage budgeting and forecasting for transportation operations.

Operational Support

• Provide escalation support for critical transportation issues.

• Ensure after‑hours coverage for urgent transportation needs.

What We’re Looking For

• Bachelor’s degree in Transportation, Logistics, Supply Chain, Business, or related field; master’s preferred.

• 8–12+ years of transportation experience with 3+ years in leadership.

• Experience across multiple modes (TL, LTL, parcel, intermodal).

• Strong TMS knowledge (Oracle, SAP, Blue Yonder, OTM).

• Proven process improvement leadership and optimization experience.

• Strong analytical and financial skills with the ability to interpret complex data.

• Excellent communication and executive presence.

• Ability to influence cross‑functional teams and drive strategic decisions.

Physical Requirements

Typical office environment.

Disclaimer

The information provided in this job description outlines the general nature and level of work performed within this role. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, qualifications, or working conditions. Management reserves the right to modify responsibilities or designate additional essential functions as needed.