SR Director

Universal Logistics Holdings, Inc.; Warren, Northern (MI, KY); Hybrid; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Universal Logistics Holdings, Inc. in Warren, MI, seeks a Director of Launch Operations to lead startup, implementation, and stabilization of new initiatives across our network.

This role provides strategic leadership for launch activities and oversees cross-functional project execution to ensure efficient, effective implementations. The ideal candidate will have a strong operational background, exceptional leadership skills, and the ability to manage multiple large-scale initiatives

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain, Logistics, Engineering, PM, Operations Management, or related field.
• 8+ years in operations, logistics, supply chain, manufacturing, project management, implementation, or startup leadership.
• 5+ years of leadership experience managing teams, projects, or operational functions.

Responsibilities

• Lead planning, execution, and management of operational startups and implementations.
• Provide strategic direction and oversee launch teams to meet milestones.
• Collaborate with Operations, Engineering, Safety, HR, Finance, IT, and executives.
• Establish project governance, communication plans, and executive reporting.
• Identify risks, develop mitigations, drive issue resolution during implementation.
• Oversee staffing, training, readiness assessments, and startup execution.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Communication

Organizational skills

Microsoft Office

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain, Logistics, Engineering, PM, Operations Management, or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office

Excel

Project management tools

Job description

Are you looking to join a dynamic team that provides its people with the tools to be successfull and opportunities to grow? Universal Logistics is a leading provider of customized transportation and logistics solutions, offering a comprehensive suite of services including transportation, value-added, intermodal, and specialized services utilized throughout entire supply chains. Universal has immediate career opportunities in your area. Apply today to become part of the Universal team!**Logistics Insight Corporation (LINC), a subsidiary of Universal Logistics Holdings, is seeking a Director of Launch Operations to lead the successful startup, implementation, and stabilization of new operational initiatives across our network.** This individual will provide strategic leadership for launch activities, oversee cross-functional project execution, and ensure new operations are implemented efficiently and effectively. The ideal candidate will possess a strong operational background, exceptional leadership skills, and the ability to manage multiple large-scale initiatives simultaneously. **This position will be based in Warren, MI. Travel will be required as needed to support operational startups, site implementations, customer requirements, and business initiatives.** ## **Key Responsibilities*** Lead the planning, execution, and management of operational startups, implementations, and business expansion initiatives.* Provide strategic direction and oversight for launch teams, ensuring project milestones, timelines, and deliverables are achieved.* Partner with Operations, Engineering, Safety, HR, Finance, IT, and Executive Leadership to ensure successful execution of new business opportunities.* Establish and maintain project governance, communication plans, and executive-level reporting.* Identify operational risks, develop mitigation strategies, and drive issue resolution throughout the implementation process.* Oversee staffing plans, training initiatives, operational readiness assessments, and startup execution.* Ensure consistency in launch processes, documentation, and best practices across multiple projects.* Support post-launch stabilization efforts and drive continuous improvement initiatives.* Develop and mentor Project Managers and launch team members while fostering a culture of accountability and operational excellence.* Serve as a key liaison between field operations and corporate leadership throughout implementation efforts. ## **Qualifications**### **Required*** Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain, Logistics, Engineering, Project Management, Operations Management, or a related field.* 8+ years of experience in operations, logistics, supply chain, manufacturing, project management, implementation, or startup leadership.* 5+ years of leadership experience managing teams, projects, or operational functions.* Proven ability to lead complex, cross-functional initiatives from planning through execution.* Strong communication, organizational, and leadership skills.* Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.* Proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Excel, PowerPoint, and Project Management tools.### **Preferred*** Experience supporting logistics, warehousing, transportation, automotive, manufacturing, or distribution operations.* Previous experience leading startup, implementation, launch, or business integration activities.* Experience managing large-scale operational projects across multiple locations.* Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Lean Logistics, or Continuous Improvement methodologies.* Experience working in customer-facing operational environments.