VAI's Materials Management group is looking for a highly motivated and collaborative Logistics Manager to join their team to oversee a team of 3 and help lead the Institute's logistics operations by overseeing shipping, receiving, internal distribution, and related processes for both domestic and international activities.
Your key areas of responsibility will include:- Provide strategic leadership and operational oversight for all logistics activities, including domestic and international shipping and receiving.
- Ensure all shipments and receipts, including regulated and hazardous materials, comply with applicable institutional policies, trade regulations, and safety requirements.
- Administer logistics and shipping systems (Workday, SCLogic, eShipGlobal), ensuring accurate configuration, user support, and effective system performance.
- Establish departmental goals, priorities, and performance standards aligned with institutional objectives.
- Lead, mentor, and develop logistics staff, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
- Design and monitor workflow plans to ensure efficient and timely handling of all shipments.
- Lead all import/export operations in accordance with governing trade regulations, export control requirements, and institutional compliance standards, serving as the primary expert for complex international shipments and regulatory matters.
- Serve as the primary contact for complex shipments and regulatory questions, engaging with transportation providers, customs brokers, and government agencies.
- Develop and maintain procedures, compliance documentation, and operational tools to standardize processes.
- Analyze and monitor vendor performance, negotiate service agreements, and resolve service issues.
- Approve and balance staffing coverage to meet operational demands.
- Address personnel issues and lead performance management activities, including evaluations and corrective action when necessary.
- Prepare and analyze management reports to monitor performance, compliance, and cost efficiency.
- Provide high-level operational support during peak demand, staffing gaps, or institutional priorities.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Necessary qualifications:- Bachelor's degree in Logistics, Supply Chain, Business, or related experience and a minimum of 5-10 years of progressive experience in logistics, supply chain, or related field, with direct responsibility for domestic and international shipping and compliance.
- Customs brokerage experience strongly preferred.
- Excellent negotiation, communication, and problem-solving skills.
- Strong knowledge of regulatory compliance, trade regulations, and safety requirements.
- Proficiency with ERP systems and shipping/logistics management software, including reporting and operational tracking tools.
- Experience in an academic, nonprofit, or research environment preferred.
Description of a successful Candidate:- A self-motivated and driven individual who is able to exhibit exceptional productivity and take responsibility for independent management of a project.
- A detail-oriented individual who keeps a clear grasp of the big picture.
- A team player with a proven ability to lead, develop, and retain high-performing teams.
- An individual who leads through process design and continuous improvement.
Application Process:If you possess these attributes and enjoy working with motivated and driven people, we welcome speaking with you and encourage you to apply online today by submitting a
single combined pdf including:- A Cover Letter outlining your interests and goals
If you have questions about the application process or working at VAI you are welcome to email Natalie Hartford, Senior Talent Acquisition Specialist at [redacted]
About Grand Rapids, MI Van Andel Institute is in downtown in the center of the Medical Mile. A remarkable combination of a cosmopolitan atmosphere and small-town warmth, Grand Rapids is known for its philanthropic and sustainability-driven community. It’s fun affordable and family-friendly.
Located on the banks of the Grand River, offers all the big-city excitement you'd expect from a million-resident metropolis, featuring hundreds of restaurants and nightspots, theaters, museums, sports and concerts. The safe and clean downtown is surrounded by an eclectic mix of walkable neighborhoods and natural areas. The downtown area is safe and clean with an eclectic mix of walkable neighborhoods and natural areas.
