Logistics Manager

Slate Auto • Troy, MI

12d

About The Position

At Slate, we’re building safe, reliable vehicles that people can afford, personalize and love—and doing it here in the USA as part of our commitment to reindustrialization. The spirit of DIY and customization runs throughout every element of a Slate, because people should have control over how their trucks look, feel, and represent them. | WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR SLATE is looking for an energetic, organized, experienced Logistics Manager to join our growing team that brings a “roll up the sleeves” approach to getting things done, as responsibilities will be wide ranging. We have embraced a startup company mindset of being fast, frugal, scrappy, and fun. Important skills include accountability, strategic thinking, relationship building, business case analysis, and negotiation. | WHAT YOU GET TO DO As the Logistics Manager, you will lead and develop a lean, high-performing team responsible for planning and executing domestic and international logistics strategies supporting inbound and outbound flows to and from the manufacturing plant. This role is critical in shaping logistics strategies that enable efficient production, full-vehicle outbound movement, and last-mile delivery across multiple transportation modes, including domestic trucking and rail. You will play a pivotal role in evaluating suppliers for production awards, leading commercial negotiations, managing total landed cost, and building strong, collaborative supplier relationships. Partnering closely with internal stakeholders, you will ensure logistics strategies align with the company’s objectives, cost targets, and core values. Success in this role requires hands-on experience with hazardous automotive materials including lithium-ion battery modules and a strong command of international shipping processes, customs compliance, and cost optimization.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree or equiv. in Supply Chain Management (or similar) or previous working level experience
• 10+ years of logistics related experience (automotive industry preferred)
• 1+ years of experience with international shipments
• 2+ years’ direct leadership experience
• Excellent communication and relationship building skills
• Ability to identify process issues and drive improvements to improve operational / supply chain efficiency and quality
• Develop, edit, and distribute supply chain-related, key performance indicators, portals, metrics, and reports
• Strong working knowledge of value driven supplier KPI and scorecard development and implementation
• Knowledge and experience with ERP systems and implementation
• Strong analytical, interpersonal, and communication skills
• High level of integrity
• Ability to thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced start-up environment

Nice To Haves

• Automotive industry experience preferred
• Start-up experience preferred

Responsibilities

• Leading inbound logistics and full-vehicle outbound strategies, including domestic truck and rail methods, to support all stages of last-mile delivery
• Evaluating and negotiating with suppliers, managing total landed cost, and ensuring adherence to global terms and conditions
• Managing international shipments end-to-end, including HTS codes, tariff rates, customs brokerage, and continuous bonds
• Resolving cost, quality, and delivery issues impacting the factory while driving cost reductions and meeting BOM targets
• Collaborating cross-functionally with system development, quality, and purchasing teams to implement data-driven logistics solutions and communicate risks and priorities effectively

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager