Logistics Specialist

General Summary:

In collaboration with the Domestic Operations Manager, this Corporate Logistics role holds primary responsibility for supporting the Business Units in their utilization of Corporate Logistics services. The associate addresses BU issues while upholding Logistics KPIs through collaborative relationship building, training, analytics, and continuous improvement practices. This position involves resolving daily issues, analyzing cost and service gaps, monitoring operations, researching root causes, and handling complaints. Independent analysis and driving performance improvements are essential. Efficiency and accuracy under pressure to meet deadlines are crucial. Timely escalation of risks is required. This role requires a basic understanding of Avient's transportation processes, including shipping & receiving, and related SAP transactions. Proficiency in SAP and Microsoft Excel (pivot tables, vlookup) is essential. Knowledge of the transportation industry across modes and the ability to drive results through third-party logistics partners (3PL) are also required. Success will be determined by achieving your goals using Avient's leadership behaviors.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

This individual will be responsible for prioritizing and focusing on the specific objectives that impact warehouse initiatives including: Build collaborates, knowledge-based, working relationship with various BU stakeholders to support their business. Function as the primary contact for operational stakeholders' questions; coach and guide Avient locations on logistics processes. Collaborate with 3PL providers to reduce claims, enhance service, and manage costs. Conduct regular analysis to identify and validate improvement opportunities and driving solutions. Resolve transportation IT issues for BUs through coaching, training, and escalation as needed. Support LSS initiatives and projects to improve processes and performance. Be available during normal business hours; occasional after-hours/weekend support may be required at the month-end. Address complaints and claims swiftly and accurately. Attend and actively participate in required meetings with internal and external stakeholders. Provide progress updates to the Domestic Logistics Manager. Escalate issues appropriately to all stakeholders. Participate in corporate audits as needed. Maintain SAP routes and accurately code SAP OTA data. Engage in transportation bids to add value and represent BU interests. Perform regular lane analysis to improve operations. Additional logistic responsibilities may be assigned.

Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration or equivalent experience. Minimum of 3 years of logistics experience. Intermediate proficiency in SAP. Intermediate proficiency in Microsoft Outlook, Teams, Excel, PowerPoint, and Word. Experience working in a corporate environment with multiple business units. Preferred experience with third-party logistics partners, including warehouses, transportation planners, and freight pay partners. Physical Demands Must be able to remain in a stationary position for extended periods of time (up to 60% of the workday). Must be able to travel to/from required meetings. Must be able to input data into a computer. Typically work is in an office environment where the noise level is low to moderate. Essential Duties & Responsibilities Work closely with the Global Logistics Manager to develop monthly reporting on Logistics Services for the Avient business units. Work collaboratively with 3rd party logistics providers for transportation and warehousing to report on monthly costs and services. Manage Logistics Customer Complaint review and reconciliation process across all business units. Investigate root cause of problem with warehouse and/or carrier, develop corrective action plans, and communicate via correspondence with customer. Support LSS initiatives and projects to improve processes and performance. Manage Avient's leased car fleet; determine vehicle specifications, lease rates, vehicle acquisition, vehicle assignment, licensing, insurance, IRS tax reporting and vehicle disposal process to minimize overall leasing costs to Company. Negotiate lease car contract, manufacturer's Competitive Assistance Program, and manage leased car bid process. Provide monthly reporting to senior management and HR managers. Enter purchase orders into Ariba system, await approvals, audit and approve invoices for outside third parties, Schneider and DTZ locations. Physical/Environ. Demands Must be able to remain in a stationary position for long periods of time (up to 60% of the work day). Must be able to traverse to/from required meetings. Must be able to input data into a computer. Typically work is in an office environment where the noise level is low to moderate.