Assistant Dock Manager

The Dock Manager is responsible for overseeing the transportation and delivery of catering orders to clients, ensuring timely and accurate deliveries of food and equipment. This role requires strong logistical skills, an understanding of food safety during transportation, and the ability to manage a fleet of delivery vehicles. The Transportation Manager will work closely with sales reps, kitchen staff, and drivers to ensure smooth and efficient delivery operations that meet customer satisfaction.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage the day-to-day transportation and delivery activities for all catering orders, ensuring all deliveries are completed on time and according to customer specifications.
• Oversee the scheduling of transportation routes to optimize efficiency and ensure timely arrivals at catering events, with attention to traffic conditions and event timelines.
• Coordinate with the catering team to ensure that the correct quantities and items are delivered to the right location, on schedule.
• Supervise a team of drivers and ensure they are following delivery protocols, safety standards, and company policies.
• Ensure that the delivery fleet (company vehicles) is properly maintained, regularly inspected, and serviced to avoid any operational disruptions.
• Track vehicle performance and manage the logistics of fleet schedules, including repairs and maintenance.
• Develop and monitor a maintenance schedule to ensure that vehicles are in safe working order and comply with all relevant regulations.
• Ensure compliance with food safety regulations during transportation, including maintaining proper temperature controls for perishable items and preventing contamination.
• Ensure that food delivery vehicles are sanitized regularly and maintained to meet health and safety standards.
• Provide training to drivers and staff on food safety, proper handling procedures, and company delivery protocols.
• Liaise with customers, event coordinators, and catering teams to resolve any delivery issues, including late deliveries, missing items, or damaged goods.
• Provide excellent customer service, ensuring that any special requests, delivery preferences, or changes are handled promptly.
• Ensure that drivers have proper documentation and clear communication regarding delivery specifics.
• Oversee the labeling process for all catering deliveries, ensuring that items are accurately labeled for proper identification during transport and at delivery locations.
• Ensure that labels include key details such as item descriptions, quantities, special handling instructions, and allergen information as required.
• Work closely with the kitchen and logistics teams to ensure all catering deliveries are correctly labeled before being dispatched, reducing errors and enhancing traceability.
• Maintain accurate records of labeled items for inventory control, compliance, and customer satisfaction.
• Monitor transportation costs, including fuel, maintenance, and staffing, to stay within budget while maintaining service standards.
• Analyze delivery routes and operations to find ways to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and improve delivery time.
• Report on key transportation metrics, such as on-time delivery rates, vehicle usage, and cost-per-mile, to senior management.
• Supervise and lead the transportation team, providing training, guidance, and performance evaluations.
• Schedule and assign delivery shifts, ensuring adequate coverage for all catering deliveries, especially during peak times.
• Foster a positive and team-oriented work environment, emphasizing safety, customer service, and professionalism.
• Other duties as assigned. 

Qualifications:

• High School diploma
• Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, or a related field (preferred).
• 3+ years of experience in transportation management or logistics, with specific experience in the catering or foodservice industry (preferred).
• Knowledge of food safety standards and regulations during transportation.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills with the ability to coordinate multiple deliveries and schedules.
• Excellent communication skills, both with customers and internal teams.
• Proficiency in logistics software, fleet management tools, and MS Office Suite (Excel, Word, etc.).
• Ability to manage a team and work under pressure to meet deadlines and ensure customer satisfaction.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to stand, sit, and walk for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and carry catering equipment or food items as needed.
• Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record.

Work Environment:

• The role involves working in both office and field settings, including overseeing deliveries and managing logistics from the warehouse to catering events.
• The position requires a proactive approach to problem-solving, especially when managing last-minute changes or urgent customer requests.