Logistics Specialist - Wuensche USA

Wuensche USA

We are the U.S. office of The Wuensche Group, based in Hamburg, Germany. With decades of experience in many categories, including food and non-food (home décor, apparel, small home appliances, garden, pet products). We are a leading supplier to retailers around the globe and are also growing our e-commerce division, selling several product lines on Amazon. Our office is in Chicago near Union Station - come join us!

Job Description

We are looking for a talented, Chicago-based Logistics Specialist to lead and coordinate our logistics efforts. Half of the time will be spent on food import logistics and the other half will be divided between hard goods and apparel - see the details below. Hybrid work available but candidates must live in the Chicago area. Please do not apply if you are not willing to relocate at your expense.

Responsibilities – Food Department (50%)

• Maintain frequent communication with logistics providers to understand the current market situation regarding freight rates
• Track and communicate rate changes to appropriate departments
• Identify the quickest and most cost-effective routes to POD’s
• Create, submit and follow up shipping calls with suppliers and forwarders
• Track container bookings in the origin
• Track shipments and update internal spreadsheets accordingly
• Maintain close communication with the food team regarding arrivals and delays/changes of the schedule
• Check and approve freight invoices
• Prepare and manage shipping documentation (commercial invoice, bill of lading, COO, NOP) and act as the key contact with logistic partners
• Create trucking orders for inland transport from port to warehouse
• Work with other departments in the organization to implement logistical improvements and create efficiency – create synergies between the different departments

Responsibilities – Hardgoods and Fashion Departments (50%)

• Coordinate, set up and maintain schedules for inbound and outbound shipments; and ensure they are delivered on time
• Track and trace orders daily
• Prepare and manage shipping documentation (Commercial invoice, bill of lading, 7-inspection form etc.) and act as the key liaison with vendors, customers and internal parties (US, Germany HQ for multi-countries orders and China)
• Report regularly to senior managers and business units about progress, plans, and problems
• Provide input into logistics, transportation and distribution strategy development
• Communicate directly with customers regarding any concerns relating to shipments or SOP
• Coordinate with sourcing office to ensure bookings have been scheduled according to SOP
• Assist with German office in all multi-country shipments
• Keep close track of customer shipping SOP’s and communicate these to the internal Team as they are updated

Education and Skills

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• 3+ years of experience in logistics or supply chain management – international experience preferred and food industry experience a plus
• Advanced understanding of transportation and warehouse logistics operations
• Excellent problem-solving skills, particularly in addressing delivery challenges
• Strong organizational skills with superior attention to detail
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines
• Great communication skills, both written and verbal
• Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel and Power Point
• Ability to quickly learn new software programs
• Strong understanding of the international environment
• Experience in determining HTS information a plus

Benefits

• Healthcare insurance (available at your cost)
• 15 days paid vacation + 2 personal days + 1 floating holiday + 10 paid national holidays
• Commuter benefits
• Paid Parental leave
• 401K
• Summer hours

Work Philosophy

At Wuensche USA, we believe that creativity, innovation and camaraderie are essential to our business, our culture, and our employee’s growth and development. With our Hybrid Work Policy, we are committed to promoting collaboration, productivity and employee well-being by maximizing the benefits of both in-person and remote work.