North America Transport & Customs Leader

Festo SE & Co. KG; Mason (OH); On-site; USD 140,000 - 220,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation package

Global network in a family-owned firm

Job summary

Festo Corporation is seeking a Head of Transport Operations & Customs in Mason, Ohio, to lead North America transportation, customs, and logistics support activities. You will drive operational excellence, ensure compliance, and guide continuous improvement across teams and processes.

The role requires deep knowledge of transport and FTZ regulations, strong leadership, and a track record of delivering KPI-based performance improvements.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Logistics, Business, or a related field.
• Several years of leadership experience in transportation, logistics, customs, or trade compliance.
• Strong knowledge of transportation processes, customs regulations incl. FTZ, and logistics service provider management.
• Experience with freight forwarders, customs brokers, and operational compliance processes.
• Excellent analytical, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Strong leadership abilities with a passion for developing people and driving change.
• Fluent English required; additional languages are a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead Transport Operations, Customs Operations, and Logistics Support teams.
• Ensure efficient inbound and outbound transportation processes and carrier performance management.
• Oversee customs and FTZ operations, broker management, import/export documentation, and compliance activities as well as export control procedures.
• Drive KPI-based performance management across cost, quality, delivery, and service.
• Manage logistics service providers and support transportation tenders and contract reviews.
• Lead digitalization, automation, and process improvement initiatives.
• Act as the primary interface between Operations, Supply Chain, Purchasing, Finance, IT, and external logistics partners / customs authorities.
• Develop and coach a high-performing team based on clear actions, while fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical skills

Stakeholder mgmt

Communication

Change management

English fluency

Education

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Logistics, Business, or related field

Job description

Festo Corporation is seeking a Head of Transport Operations & Customs in Mason, Ohio, to lead North America transportation, customs, and logistics support activities. You will drive operational excellence, ensure compliance, and guide continuous improvement across teams and processes.

The role requires deep knowledge of transport and FTZ regulations, strong leadership, and a track record of delivering KPI-based performance improvements.