Role Overview for Director of Logistics Sourcing with a Third-Party Logistics (3PL) – Memphis, TN
Are you a visionary leader in logistics sourcing, ready to make a significant impact on a national scale? JRG Partners is exclusively representing a premier, technology-driven Third-Party Logistics (3PL) provider in their search for a Director of Logistics Sourcing. Based in the strategic logistics hub of Memphis, Tennessee, this executive role is critical to our client’s continued growth and market leadership. You will be the architect of a sophisticated, multi-modal procurement strategy, responsible for building and nurturing a high-performance carrier network that delivers exceptional value, reliability, and service to a diverse portfolio of clients.
This is not merely a procurement management role; it is a strategic leadership position that sits at the intersection of operations, finance, and commercial strategy. The Director of Logistics Sourcing will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of transportation procurement, including strategic sourcing, carrier relationship management, contract negotiation, and market intelligence. You will lead a talented team of sourcing professionals, fostering a culture of data-driven decision-making, continuous improvement, and collaborative partnership. Your expertise will directly influence the company’s profitability, service quality, and ability to scale. We are seeking a dynamic individual who can balance the tactical demands of daily procurement with the long-term vision required to build a resilient and cost-effective supply chain network for the future. You will be empowered to innovate, implement best-in-class technologies, and develop the strategies that will set our client apart in a competitive marketplace.
Key Responsibilities of Director of Logistics Sourcing with a Third-Party Logistics (3PL) – Memphis, TN
Strategic Sourcing & Network Development
Design, execute, and continuously refine the comprehensive sourcing strategy for all transportation modes, including Truckload (FTL), Less-Than-Truckload (LTL), Intermodal, Drayage, and Final Mile. Lead the end-to-end procurement lifecycle, from market analysis and carrier identification to conducting large-scale RFPs/RFQs and awarding business. Develop a balanced portfolio of carriers to mitigate risk, ensure capacity, and optimize cost-service trade-offs.
Carrier Relationship Management
Act as the executive point of contact for strategic carrier partners. Cultivate deep, long-term relationships built on trust, transparency, and mutual success. Establish and manage a formal carrier relationship management program, including regular performance scorecards, quarterly business reviews (QBRs), and joint strategic planning sessions to drive innovation and continuous improvement.
Team Leadership & Mentorship
Lead, inspire, and develop a high-performing team of sourcing managers and procurement specialists. Set clear performance objectives (KPIs), provide regular coaching and feedback, and create career development pathways. Foster a collaborative and analytical team environment that is focused on achieving departmental and company-wide goals.
Contract Negotiation & Management
Spearhead the negotiation of complex transportation agreements, including pricing, service level agreements (SLAs), accessorial charges, and liability terms. Ensure all contracts are robust, compliant, and aligned with the company’s risk tolerance. Oversee the contract management system to ensure compliance and timely renewals.
Data Analysis & Market Intelligence
Champion a data-first approach to sourcing. Utilize internal data, external market intelligence, and advanced analytics to monitor freight market trends, predict capacity shifts, and identify cost-saving opportunities. Leverage this intelligence to inform negotiation strategies and provide actionable insights to the executive team. Your work will be guided by industry-leading supply chain management best practices to ensure optimal performance.
Process Improvement & Technology Implementation
Continuously evaluate and enhance sourcing processes to improve efficiency, scalability, and effectiveness. Identify, vet, and champion the implementation of new procurement technologies, such as advanced TMS modules, sourcing optimization tools, and data analytics platforms, to drive a competitive advantage.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Serve as a key partner to the Sales, Operations, Finance, and IT departments. Collaborate with Sales to develop competitive pricing strategies for new business pursuits. Work closely with Operations to ensure carrier performance meets and exceeds client expectations. Align with Finance on budgeting, forecasting, and cost-savings validation.
Financial Acumen & Budgetary Oversight
Develop and manage the annual transportation procurement budget. Be fully accountable for achieving aggressive cost savings targets and other financial performance metrics. Prepare and present detailed performance reports and strategic updates to the senior leadership team.
Requirements for the Director of Logistics Sourcing with a Third-Party Logistics (3PL) – Memphis, TN
Required Qualifications:
Education
Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, Economics, or a related field.
Experience
A minimum of 10-12 years of progressive experience in transportation sourcing, procurement, or carrier management, with at least 5 years in a leadership role managing a team. Significant experience within a 3PL, freight brokerage, or large shipper environment is essential.
Multi-Modal Expertise
Deep and demonstrable expertise in sourcing across multiple modes of ground transportation, particularly FTL, LTL, and Intermodal. You must understand the unique market dynamics, pricing structures, and operational nuances of each mode.
Negotiation Skills
Proven track record as a master negotiator, capable of handling complex, high-value contract negotiations with carriers of all sizes. Must be able to articulate value and build consensus to achieve favorable outcomes.
Analytical Prowess
Strong analytical and quantitative skills. High proficiency in Microsoft Excel is required, along with significant experience using Transportation Management Systems (TMS) and data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI) to analyze data and derive insights.
Leadership & Communication
Exceptional leadership qualities with the ability to inspire and motivate a team. Must possess outstanding written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly and concisely to executive-level stakeholders.
Preferred Qualifications:
Advanced Education
Master of Business Administration (MBA) or a Master of Science (MS) in Supply Chain Management is highly preferred.
Professional Certifications
Relevant industry certifications such as Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP), Certified in Transportation and Logistics (CTL), or similar credentials.
Technology Acumen
Experience with leading-edge sourcing and procurement software, freight visibility platforms, and advanced analytics tools.
Established Network
A well-established and respected network of contacts within the carrier community across North America.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to investing in their employees and offers a highly competitive and comprehensive benefits package designed to support your professional and personal well-being. This includes:
Competitive Compensation
An attractive base salary complemented by a significant performance-based annual bonus program.
Comprehensive Health Coverage
Robust medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your eligible dependents, with a significant portion of premiums covered by the company.
Retirement Planning
A 401(k) retirement savings plan with a generous company match to help you plan for your future.
Work-Life Balance
A generous Paid Time Off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick days, and paid company holidays.
Professional Growth
A strong commitment to professional development, with opportunities for continued education, tuition reimbursement, and support for obtaining industry certifications.
Relocation Assistance
A comprehensive relocation package is available for the ideal candidate moving to the Memphis area.
Additional Perks
A modern and collaborative office environment, employee wellness programs, and other corporate discounts.
How to Apply
This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of logistics for a market-leading company. If you are a strategic, results-oriented sourcing leader ready for your next challenge, we encourage you to apply. JRG Partners is managing this search exclusively. To be considered for this pivotal role, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and accomplishments. For more information on our expertise in this sector, please visit the JRG Partners’ Supply Chain & Logistics practice area. Our client is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
