EU Carrier Manager

1stDibs is seeking a leader to help manage our carrier network to support our sellers and buyers. As the EU Carrier Manager, you will be responsible for overseeing the performance and management of transportation service carrier partners. This role involves a mix of strategic planning, operational management, and relationship building with carriers, ensuring efficient and reliable transportation services for clients purchasing through 1stdibs site.

We are seeking an individual to refine our group of in-home, freight, specialty, and parcel carriers and complementary service providers to assemble a best-in-class Logistics offering for all our categories. The ideal candidate is an industry professional who can identify providers with the optimal mix of cost, speed, service, and technology to deliver the best customer experience.

Key Responsibilities of a Carrier Manager in the EU include:

• Carrier Performance Management (EU and US domestic): Monitoring and evaluating carrier performance against established KPIs, identifying areas for improvement, and implementing performance improvement plans. 

• Relationship Management: Building and maintaining strong relationships with carriers, acting as the primary point of contact for operational and commercial matters, and resolving any issues that arise. 

• Strategic Planning: Contributing to the development and execution of carrier strategies, including sourcing, monitoring performance and service levels and contract negotiations. 

• Cost Management: Analyzing carrier rates, managing rate exceptions, and contributing to cost-saving initiatives. 

• Compliance and Risk Management: Ensuring carrier compliance with relevant regulations and safety standards and developing risk mitigation strategies. 

Examples of tasks include:

• Negotiating rates and contracts with carriers.
• Monitoring and managing carrier performance using the scorecard metrics.
• Resolving carrier related issues and escalations.
• Supporting liquidation activities and e-auctions.
• Developing and implementing process improvements.
• Monitoring compliance with safety and regulatory requirements.
• Analyzing data to identify trends and opportunities. 

Skills and Qualifications:

• Industry knowledge: Deep understanding of transportation and logistics, including relevant regulations and trends. 

• Communication and negotiation skills: Strong ability to build relationships, communicate effectively, and negotiate with carriers. 

• Data analysis skills: Proficiency in analyzing data, identifying trends, and making data-driven recommendations. 

• Problem-solving skills: Ability to identify and resolve issues related to carrier performance and operations. 

• Project management skills: Ability to manage projects related to carrier management and process improvement. 

Data Analysis and Reporting:

• Ability to create and perform data analysis using spreadsheets and systems like Salesforce and Looker.
• Analyzing carrier data to identify trends, track performance, and generate reports for internal stakeholders.
• Proficiency in analyzing data, identifying trends, and making data-driven recommendations. 
• Proficiency with AI tools such as ChatGPT, Claude, Microsoft Copilot, or similar, with the ability to effectively leverage them in day-to-day work.

What You’ll Bring:

• 3-7 years’ experience in Logistics, preferably with a variety of roles and responsibilities, including related to transportation service providers
• Experience with transportation and handling fine art, furniture/home goods, and high value items is a plus
• Experience with digital and e-commerce is a plus
• Thorough understanding of industry terms and norms
• Effectively identify and define service requirements and translate them into measurable SLAs, SOPs, operating protocols, etc.
• Ability to balance strategic goals and operational details
• Understand analytics and use data to manage service providers
• Communicate effectively across all levels of organizations, as a speaker, writer, and listener
• Bachelor’s degree preferred (or equivalent work experience)
• Proven track-record of developing strong working relationships with service providers
• Specific regulations and requirements related to cross-border transportation.
• Different transportation modes, such as road and air.
• The impact of Cities on transportation and logistics. 
• Tariff fees knowledge