Operations Manager

Position: Operations Manager
Company Name: AiLO Logistics
FLSA Status for Employee: Exempt
Location: Phoenix, Arizona (On-Site)
Salary Range: $75,000 - $90,000

Formerly known as AJR Trucking, AiLO Logistics is redefining the future of logistics. Our rebrand represents more than a new name - it signals a strategic transformation rooted in innovation, technology, and excellence. As the logistics industry rapidly evolves to meet new customer expectations, AiLO is leading the charge by integrating artificial intelligence, automation, and data-driven efficiency into every aspect of our operations.

Our new identity embodies our commitment to adaptability, sustainability, and operational excellence. At AiLO Logistics, we are building the future of transportation—smart, efficient, and people-focused.

Position Summary:
The Operations Manager leads the carrier procurement, relationship management and freight planning across our brokerage operation. This role plays a critical part in enabling scalable revenue growth by ensuring we have the right carriers, at the right price and in the right lanes while maximizing utilization and service.

Essential Job Functions & Responsibilities:

Carrier Sourcing & Strategy:

• Build, grow and maintain a robust, scalable carrier network across modes including FTL, drayage and power-only.
• Negotiate and manage rate agreements and service contracts with a focus on cost control and carrier performance.

Load Planning & Execution:

• Oversee end-to-end load planning for brokerage freight, ensuring optimal service utilization. Collaborate with Asset operation for capacity options.
• Collaborate with dispatch and operations to reduce empty miles, minimize dwell and increase profitability.
• Align planning strategy with customer lane commitments and revenue forecasting.

Carrier Onboarding and Vetting:

• Identify high-value and high-risk commodities and define operational vetting and SOPs for operations.
• Approve carrier set ups that meet customer expectations.

Revenue-Aligned Capacity Planning:

• Forecast capacity needs by lane, region and customer segment based on sales pipeline and booked revenue.
• Analyze margins, carrier costs and coverage performance to support grows margin protection and expansion.
• Continuously review carrier mix and freight allocation to ensure optimal profitability and customer performance.

Driver Manager:

• Manage a fleet of drivers to ensure efficient, safe, and on time deliveries while maximizing asset utilization.
• Act as the primary contact for driver communication, scheduling, and route optimization.
• Monitor metrics such as on-time delivery, miles per truck, and fuel efficiency.

Team Leadership:

• Manage team of carrier managers, driver managers and sourcing analysts.
• Foster high-performance, results-driven culture with a focus on accountability and collaboration.
• Develop and execute training programs to scale operational capabilities.

Key Metrics of Success (KPIs):

• Load coverage time and acceptance rate.
• Cost per mile and gross margin per order.
• On-time pickup and delivery rate.
• Carrier retention and performance score.

Qualifications:

• 5+ years of progressive leadership experience in trucking, transportation or logistics operations.
• Proven leadership and team management experience.
• Strong knowledge of DOT/FMCSA regulations and USPS contract compliance.
• Proven ability to manage dispatch, drivers, fleet maintenance, and multi-route operations.
• Demonstrated success in maintaining high on-time performance and service reliability.
• Bachelor's degree in business, Operations, Logistics, or related field preferred.
• Experience managing multi-terminal or 24/7 operations.
• Ability to analyze KPIs and drive cost reduction and efficiency improvements.
• Experience with budgeting, forecasting, and vendor management.
• Familiarity with bidding, renewals, and contract negotiations.

Key Competencies:

• Successfully engage and lead individual and team discussions and meetings.
• Independent and adaptive to a fast-paced business environment.
• Ability to use computer and software applications (i.e., word processing, spreadsheet, etc.).
• Willingness to work variable schedules and weekends when needed.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong people leadership and accountability.
• Previous transportation management experience required.
• Knowledge of FMCSA and DOT regulations required.
• Manage and prioritize multiple tasks in a fast-paced, service-driven environment.
• Possess customer service-related experience.
• Must possess strong problem-solving and crisis management skills.
• Manage the pressures and stress associated with a deadline-oriented atmosphere and customer service issues.
• Demonstrates skill in making independent decisions in support of company policies and procedures on time.
• Ability to work with peers and associates from other departments, operating companies, and Corporate proactively and constructively.

Compensation:

• The base pay is competitive, depending on experience ($75,000 - $90,000) and will be discussed during the interview process.

Benefits:

• Employer paid Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage.
• Company-provided cell phone & laptop.
• Life Insurance coverage.
• 401(k) retirement plan.
• Vacation and Sick Pay.
• Employee Assistance Programs.
• Excellent opportunities for career advancement within a fast-growing, innovation-driven logistics company.

Join AiLO Logistics:
This is an exciting opportunity to shape the future of an evolving logistics leader. The ideal candidate is a visionary operator with a passion for innovation, teamwork, and results. If you are ready to help lead AiLO Logistics into its next chapter of growth, we invite you to apply and join our journey toward redefining excellence in logistics.

About AiLO Logistics :

Our vision at AiLO is to be a leading logistics solutions provider, known for our commitment to sustainability, innovation, and customer service excellence. We aspire to revolutionize the logistics sector by setting new standards in environmental responsibility, operational efficiency, and customer satisfaction. Through continuous improvement and a forward-thinking approach, we strive to meet the evolving needs of global trade while preserving our planet for future generations.