Role Overview for Chief Operating Officer with a Global Logistics Firm – Atlanta, GA
JRG Partners is proud to conduct an exclusive, confidential search for a visionary and results-driven Chief Operating Officer (COO) on behalf of our client, a premier, asset-light global logistics and supply chain solutions provider. Based in their strategic North American headquarters in Atlanta, GA, this executive will serve as a pivotal member of the senior leadership team, reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer. This is a rare opportunity to steer the operational engine of a multi-billion-dollar enterprise, shaping its future trajectory in a rapidly evolving global market.
The ideal candidate is a master of operational complexity and a strategic architect of growth. You are not just a manager of day-to-day functions; you are a transformative leader who can harmonize global operations, drive technological innovation, and cultivate a culture of relentless continuous improvement. You will be entrusted with the full scope of the company’s global operations, including freight forwarding (air and ocean), warehousing, transportation, customs brokerage, and value-added services. Your mission will be to build a scalable, efficient, and resilient operational framework that not only meets but exceeds customer expectations, providing a distinct competitive advantage. You will translate the company’s long-term strategic vision into tangible, executable operational plans, ensuring that every facet of the organization is aligned to deliver superior service, profitability, and sustainable growth. This role requires a leader who can navigate the intricacies of global trade, inspire a diverse international team, and leverage data and technology to make informed, forward-thinking decisions. If you are a seasoned logistics executive with a proven track record of transforming operations and driving significant P&L impact, we invite you to explore this career-defining opportunity.
Key Responsibilities of Chief Operating Officer with a Global Logistics Firm – Atlanta,GA
Strategic Operational Leadership
Collaborate with the CEO and C-suite to develop and execute the company’s long-term operational strategy. Translate strategic goals into comprehensive operational plans, policies, and budgets that drive efficiency and market leadership.
Global Operations Management
Assume full P&L responsibility and oversight for all global operational functions. This includes air and ocean freight forwarding, contract logistics, warehousing and distribution, domestic transportation, and customs compliance. Ensure seamless execution and service delivery across all regions.
Process Optimization and Continuous Improvement
Champion a culture of operational excellence. Implement and institutionalize best practices and methodologies such as Lean, Six Sigma, and Kaizen to streamline workflows, eliminate waste, reduce costs, and enhance service quality across the entire organization.
Financial Acumen and Performance Management
Develop and manage the annual operations budget, ensuring adherence to financial targets and maximizing profitability. Establish, monitor, and analyze a robust set of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to measure operational effectiveness, including on-time performance, cost-per-shipment, warehouse productivity, and customer satisfaction.
Technology and Digital Transformation
Lead the charge in identifying and implementing cutting-edge logistics technologies, including Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), AI-driven predictive analytics, and automation. Drive the digital transformation of operations to enhance visibility, efficiency, and customer experience.
Team Leadership and Talent Development
Lead, mentor, and inspire a large, geographically dispersed team of operations professionals. Foster a collaborative, high-performance work environment. Focus on building a strong leadership pipeline through succession planning, training, and professional development initiatives.
Supply Chain Network Strategy
Continuously evaluate and optimize the company’s global supply chain network to improve transit times, reduce costs, and mitigate risks. Lead network design and expansion initiatives to support business growth and changing market dynamics.
Vendor and Carrier Relationship Management
Oversee the strategic sourcing and management of key vendors, including ocean carriers, airlines, and trucking partners. Lead high-level negotiations to secure favorable rates and capacity, ensuring strong, mutually beneficial partnerships.
Customer Centricity
Partner closely with the commercial and sales teams to ensure operational capabilities are aligned with customer needs and market demands. Act as an executive sponsor for key strategic accounts, participating in quarterly business reviews and ensuring the highest levels of customer satisfaction and retention.
Risk Management and Compliance
Ensure all operations adhere to international, federal, and local laws and regulations related to transportation, trade, and safety. Develop and implement comprehensive risk mitigation and business continuity plans to protect the company and its clients from supply chain disruptions.
Requirements for the Chief Operating Officer with a Global Logistics Firm – Atlanta, GA
Educational Background
A Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, or a related field is required. An MBA or other advanced degree is strongly preferred.
Executive Experience
A minimum of 15-20 years of progressive leadership experience within the logistics, transportation, or supply chain industry. At least 7-10 years of experience in a senior executive role (e.g., COO, SVP/VP of Operations, General Manager) with significant P&L responsibility ($500M+) for a global 3PL, freight forwarder, or large-scale logistics organization.
Operational Expertise
Deep, hands-on knowledge across multiple logistics disciplines, including international freight forwarding (air/ocean), contract logistics, warehousing, distribution, and domestic transportation management.
Transformational Leadership
Demonstrated success in leading large-scale operational transformations, change management initiatives, and process improvement projects that resulted in measurable gains in efficiency, cost reduction, and service quality.
Financial and Analytical Skills
Exceptional financial acumen with a proven ability to manage complex budgets, analyze financial statements, and use data-driven insights to guide strategic decisions. Must be highly proficient in performance metrics and operational analytics.
Technological Proficiency
Strong understanding of the modern logistics technology landscape. Experience selecting, implementing, and optimizing enterprise-level systems like TMS and WMS is essential.
Global Mindset
Extensive experience managing international operations and leading culturally diverse teams across multiple continents. A nuanced understanding of global trade dynamics and regional market differences is critical.
Communication and Influence
Superior executive presence with exceptional communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills. The ability to articulate a clear vision, influence stakeholders at all levels, and build consensus is paramount.
Location
The candidate must be based in or willing to relocate to the greater Atlanta, Georgia area. Regular domestic and international travel will be required.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top-tier executive talent and offers a highly competitive and comprehensive compensation package, including:
- An attractive executive base salary commensurate with experience.
- A significant annual performance-based bonus and incentive plan.
- A long-term incentive plan (LTIP) with equity participation.
- A full suite of executive-level benefits, including premium medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your dependents.
- A generous 401(k) retirement plan with a substantial company match.
- Executive-level Paid Time Off (PTO), paid holidays, and sick leave.
- Comprehensive relocation assistance for the selected candidate and their family.
- A professional development budget for continuing education, industry conferences, and executive coaching.
- The opportunity to make a lasting, transformative impact on a leading company in the global logistics industry.
How to Apply
JRG Partners has been exclusively retained for this critical executive search. We are committed to a thorough and confidential recruitment process. If you are a dynamic and accomplished operations executive who meets the aforementioned criteria and is ready to take on a challenging and rewarding leadership role, we encourage you to apply.
To express your interest, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your qualifications and accomplishments. All applications will be treated with the strictest confidence. For more information about our expertise in this sector, please visit our Supply Chain & Logistics executive search practice page. We look forward to connecting with you to discuss this exceptional opportunity.
