Who We Are & Why We’re Hiring

Odyssey’s AFF division is a trusted leader in freight forwarding, logistics, and transportation solutions, with strong expertise in domestic Jones Act trade lanes and international ocean freight services. We partner with carriers worldwide to provide reliable, scalable, and efficient logistics solutions for customers in Hawaii, Alaska, Puerto Rico, Guam, and beyond.

Based in Fullerton, CA or Fife, WA, Odyssey is on a journey to constantly innovate logistics. We’re actively recruiting for this role because we continue to grow our carrier partnerships and need a skilled leader to strengthen performance across our ocean and drayage networks.

Schedule:

This is a full-time, in-office position based in either Fullerton, CA or Fife, WA.

Competitive salary range of $110,000 to $140,000 commensurate with experience, qualifications, and overall fit for the role.

Location:

In-office role based in Fullerton, CA or Fife, WA, USA (Warehouse & Terminal).

About the Job:

The Sr. Manager, Carrier Management is responsible for overseeing partnerships with Jones Act water carriers (Hawaii, Alaska, Puerto Rico, and Guam), ocean carriers (NVOCCs), and drayage providers. This role blends long-term strategic planning with day-to-day execution, driving performance across Odyssey’s domestic and international ocean freight operations. The ideal candidate is a transportation leader with deep knowledge of the freight market’s commercial and operational dynamics, capable of negotiating contracts, managing carrier performance, and supporting cross-functional initiatives across operations, sales, and pricing.

In This Role, You Will:

Carrier & Contract Management

• Serve as the primary point of contact with Jones Act water carriers, barge operators, and NVOCC partners.
• Lead annual contract negotiations (FAK, named account, and fixed-rate).
• Monitor adherence to space and volume commitments while managing dispute resolution.
• Organize and lead Quarterly Business Reviews (QBRs) with carriers to review KPIs, forecast demand, and strengthen partnerships.

Drayage Carrier Procurement & Management

• Source, vet, and manage drayage providers across key port and inland locations.
• Negotiate rates, terms, and service-level agreements to ensure reliable first-mile/last-mile service.
• Track drayage performance metrics (e.g., turn time, on-time pickups) and drive corrective actions.
• Ensure compliance with port and regulatory requirements (e.g., chassis programs, TWIC access).

Operational Enablement

• Provide guidance to internal operations teams on routing, capacity planning, and carrier policies.
• Monitor KPIs such as on-time delivery and roll rates, implementing corrective measures where necessary.
• Collaborate across teams to ensure smooth execution of contracted services.

Sales & Pricing Support

• Serve as a resource for sales and pricing on ocean spot rates and customer routing solutions.
• Support RFP strategies and RFQ responses with accurate pricing guidance.
• Provide market intelligence on GRIs, congestion, and equipment availability to inform service design.

Strategic Partnership Development

• Build and maintain long-term, collaborative carrier relationships.
• Identify opportunities for alignment in areas such as sustainability, premium services, and technology integrations.

Qualifications:

We recognize not all applicants have every skill or qualification to match a job description exactly. Odyssey values diverse experiences in other industries, and we encourage everyone who meets most required qualifications to apply. While having “desired” qualifications make for a strong candidate, we encourage applicants with alternative experiences to also apply. We are always looking for people who will bring something new to the table!

Requirements:

• 7+ years’ experience in Jones Act trade lanes, ocean freight, carrier relations, or international logistics (3PL or NVOCC preferred).
• Proven expertise in contract negotiation, commercial management, and performance monitoring.
• Strong knowledge of INCOTERMS, trade lanes, and logistics regulatory requirements.
• Effective communicator and collaborator across operations, sales, and leadership levels.
• High proficiency with TMS, freight rate management tools, and Excel/analytics platforms.
• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, or related field.

Desired:

• MBA or industry certifications.
• Experience leading large-scale carrier procurement initiatives.
• Strong market intelligence skills with the ability to forecast and influence carrier strategies.



Compensation & Benefits:

We offer a comprehensive and competitive compensation and benefits package, including:

• A choice of medical plans with FSA, HRA and HSA options
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Company-paid Life and Disability Insurance
• 401(k) Plan with Company Match
• Employee Assistance Program
• Discounts with Preferred Vendors

No relocation allowance will be considered unless specifically addressed. All applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States.

Odyssey is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants are considered for positions and evaluated without regard to mental or physical disability, race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, genetic information, military or veteran status, sexual orientation, marital status, or any other classification protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.

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