Assistant Director of Linehaul

at  VanKam Freightways

JOB SUMMARY:

We are seeking an Assistant Director of Linehaul to join our team in Surrey. This position reports directly to the Director of Linehaul and Chief Operating Officer and works closely with Dispatch and Operations. The successful candidate will have a strong attention to detail, effective communication and be able to support our mission of delivering freight in a safe and timely manner.

ABOUT US:

Van-Kam Freightways Ltd. (Van Kam) is one of the largest regional carriers in Western Canada specializing in less-than-truckload (LTL) transportation. With 8 terminal locations across British Columbia, we fulfill shipments to communities within 1-3 days throughout BC and Alberta. Between our own resources and our partner network, our coverage extends beyond Western Canada into the U.S. and Eastern Canada.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

Knowledge

• Management Experience is required.
• Dispatch Experience is required.
• Trucking experience is required, specifically in Linehaul or Long Haul
• Class 1 Drivers License is an asset but not required.
• Union Experience is an asset but not required.

Skills

• Have excellent communication and interpersonal skills, both verbal and written
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Be proficient in Microsoft Office applications such as Excel, Outlook and Word.
• Have above average keyboard skills, excellent telephone manners and a strong customer service attitude.

Abilities

• Able to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Able to work independently, be well organized, a team player.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Knowledge of AS400 is preferred but not required.

Supervision and Leadership

• In conjunction with the Director of Linehaul, support, manage and develop the linehaul department including office staff, company drivers and owner operators.
• Provide leadership and guidance to the linehaul team, fostering a positive work environment and promoting teamwork and collaboration.
• Set clear performance expectations and goals for dispatchers and support staff and hold them accountable for meeting targets.
• Conduct weekly meetings with linehaul dispatchers and support staff to review the day’s schedule, discuss priorities, and address any operational issues or concerns.
• Work to ensure the full roster of company drivers and owner operators.
• Develop operational policies and standard operating procedures for the linehaul department.
• Participate in daily operations virtual meetings.
• Occasional travel to other terminals is required.
• Live the Van Kam values of Develop, Care and Achieve

Operations Management

• Oversee the day-to-day linehaul operations to ensure efficiency and adherence to safety protocols.
• Source, work with, and manage outside hired cartage companies as necessary to sufficiently service our customers.
• Work with terminals to ensure the seamless transition from loading and closing of trailers to freight movement between terminals Focus on maximizing equipment and drivers to ensure maximum load factors moving freight between terminals.
• Review and approve employee timecards and employee time off requests.
• Collaborate with the dispatch to coordinate the efficient movement of freight to and from the facility.
• Respond to customer service/sales and resolve any issues or concerns related to shipments or deliveries.
• Prepare notes for weekly shift briefings.

Staff Development

• Conduct regular performance evaluations and provide feedback and coaching to drivers, dispatchers, and support staff to help them improve their performance and develop their skills.
• Identify training needs and provide opportunities for professional development within the linehaul department.
• Address any performance or disciplinary issues with employees as needed.
• Working alongside the Director of Linehaul, develop, implement, and administer a driver mentorship program.
• Review and improve the onboarding experience for new drivers in conjunction with the Talent and Culture department.

Safety and Compliance

• Ensure compliance with all safety regulations and company policies to maintain a safe working environment for all employees.
• Investigate and address any safety incidents or concerns promptly and effectively.
• Prepare and submit reports on productivity metrics, safety incidents, DG compliance issues, load securement issues, late trailer closes, service failures to the terminal manager.
• Review staffing requirements and hire staff as needed.

Customer Service

• Collaborate with other departments, such as sales, customer service and pricing to ensure a favorable customer experience.
• Proactively communicate with customers regarding shipment status and any delays or issues that may arise.

Ad-Hoc

• Cover shifts as needed (i.e. vacations, sick/personal days)
• Other duties/projects on a as needed basis.