Senior Manager of Logistics

Lindblad Expeditions is a true pioneer in Expedition Travel. From taking the first citizen explorers to Antarctica in 1966, opening the Galapagos and Easter Island to tourism in 1967, leading the first tourist expedition through the Northwest Passage in 1984, and launching our innovative partnership with National Geographic in 2004, we're now taking almost 30,000 guests a year to some of the world’s most remote and pristine locations on our fleet of 20 ships, and are committed to ensuring our guests experience the “Exhilaration of Discovery”.

The Sr. Manager of Logistics will lead and optimize all logistics operations for hotel and technical freight. This role is responsible for cost management, freight integration, warehousing strategies, and dry dock planning, ensuring seamless supply chain execution across global operations. The ideal candidate will combine strategic vision with hands-on execution, driving continuous improvement and cost efficiency while maintaining service excellence.

 

 

·      Establish baseline costing and confirm annual budgets.

·      Track monthly actuals versus budget and report variances.

·      Analyze and explain variances in rates, volumes, and operational misses.

·      Implement strategies to improve costing over time and identify major cost drivers.

·      Negotiate freight rates and optimize cost structures.

 

·      Integrate technical and hotel freight flows to maximize synergies.

·      Determine roles and responsibilities for team members.  Formalize use of 3PL/Horizon as an extension of the team.

·      Oversee integration of freight and warehousing processes for efficiency.

 

·      Lead outsourcing initiatives for LEXDC, including business case development.

·      Oversee WMS implementation and monitor 3PL KPIs.

·      If outsourcing is not pursued, develop and execute a plan to improve internal warehouse operations.

 

·      Create and report monthly service metrics for logistics performance.

·      Conduct root cause analysis for operational misses and implement corrective process changes.

·      Apply continuous improvement principles to reduce firefighting and enhance reliability.

 

·      Oversee logistics planning and execution for dry docks in partnership with Technical teams.

·      Define and monitor KPIs for dry dock logistics performance.

 

·      Manage relationships with 3PLs, ensuring alignment and formalizing roles and responsibilities.

·      Partner with Procurement and Hotel Operations to build loading schedules.

·      Collaborate with technical and hotel stakeholders to ensure timely reporting and operational alignment.

 

·      Own annual planning and budgeting for hotel and technical freight.

·      Develop long-term strategies to optimize logistics operations and cost efficiency.

 

·      Ensure daily logistics service levels.

·      Respond promptly to inquiries from ships.

·      Resolve operational issues and escalate when necessary.

·      Coordinate with internal teams and 3PLs for quick resolutions.

·      Maintain clear communication channels for urgent needs.

 

·      Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Logistics, Business Administration, or related field; CPSM/CSCP certifications preferred.

·      7+ years of experience in logistics or supply chain management, preferably in cruise, hospitality, or maritime industries.

·      People management experience preferred.

·      Proven track record in cost management, freight integration, and warehouse optimization.

·      Strong knowledge of 3PL management, freight management, WMS systems, and KPI development.

·      Good analytical, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.

·      Ability to lead complex projects and drive continuous improvement initiatives.

 

·      Sense of urgency

·      Strategic Thinking & Execution

·      Cost Optimization

·      Process Improvement

·      Cross-functional Collaboration

·      Data-driven Decision Making

·      Leadership & Team Development

 

Applicants are expected to work well in a high-paced, team-oriented environment. Proficient computer skills in the Windows operating system, including both word-processing and spreadsheet applications, are required. Strong skills in time management, handling multiple tasks, setting priorities, meeting deadlines and working independently are essential.

 

·      Location is Seattle based. 

·      Hybrid environment with the expectation to be in the office Tuesday-Thursday

·      Travel expected at less than 25%.