Logistics Manager
Cespira · Brescia, Italy · onsite
Cespira is a joint venture between Volvo Group and Westport Fuel Systems, dedicated to advancing sustainable transportation solutions. With offices in Gothenburg (Sweden), Vancouver (Canada), and Brescia (Italy), Cespira is leading the way in developing and commercializing High-Pressure Direct Injection (HPDI) technology for heavy-duty engines. This innovative technology supports the use of hydrogen and renewable fuels, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Our mission is to provide practical, scalable solutions that accelerate the transition to a decarbonized future, ensuring cleaner air and a better world for future generations. We are committed to building on our strong reputation for excellence and pushing the boundaries of what's possible in transportation.
The Logistics Manager is responsible for the effective planning, coordination, and execution of material flow, warehousing, and logistics activities to support manufacturing operations and customer delivery requirements.
Reporting to the Senior Director, Integrated Supply Chain, this role focuses on ensuring materials are available where and when needed, inventory is managed effectively, and logistics activities are executed reliably and cost-effectively. The role emphasizes operational discipline, coordination across functions, and continuous improvement of logistics processes.
Responsibilities- Develop and execute logistics strategies for transportation (inbound/outbound), warehousing, and distribution.
- Manage daily activities of 3PL providers, freight forwarders, and carriers.
- Analyze logistics spend, negotiate contracts with carriers and service providers, and implement cost-saving initiatives in collaboration with Indirect Purchasing team. Establish and monitor KPIs for on-time delivery, cost per unit, and freight accuracy.
- Ensure supply chain continuity by coordinating material planning activities and supporting contingency planning to mitigate supply and logistics disruptions.
- Coordinate material availability to production, including support for prototypes, pilot builds, and series production requirements.
- Oversee warehouse operations, including inventory accuracy, cycle counts, and audit readiness.
- Support the effectiveness of planning tools and systems (e.g., MRP, Kanban, supermarkets), ensuring data accuracy and adherence to defined processes.
- Work closely with Purchasing to escalate supplier-related delivery or material issues and support resolution.
- Monitor logistics, warehouse, and material planning KPIs as defined by the organization; coordinate corrective actions where performance gaps are identified.
- Support budgeting and cost control activities related to logistics, warehousing, and material handling.
- Contribute to monthly management reviews and support internal and external audits as required.
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives to improve material flow, logistics efficiency, and operational reliability.
- Provide day-to-day guidance and coordination for logistics and planning team members, supporting capability development and role clarity. Foster a culture of continuous improvement and accountability.
- Utilize and optimize Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Transportation Management Systems (TMS), and ERP tools. Drive process improvements using Lean or other methodologies.
- Ensure all operations comply with local, state, and federal regulations (MIT, OSHA). Proactively resolve shipping delays, customs issues, and other logistical challenges.
- Work closely with Purchasing, Manufacturing, Sales, and Customer Service to align logistics with business needs and support new product launches or market expansions.
Requirements- Leadership & Team Development
- Strategic Negotiation & Financial Acumen
- Analytical & Problem-Solving Skills
- Excellent Communication & Stakeholder Management
- Process-Oriented with a Continuous Improvement Mindset
- Automotive Industry experienced
- Good level of English (both written and spoken)
- + 5 years experienced in the role