Job Description

The Shipping Manager is responsible for overseeing all outbound logistics operations within a beverage manufacturing and distribution environment. This role ensures the accurate, timely, and cost-effective shipment of finished goods while maintaining compliance with food safety, quality, and transportation regulations. The Shipping Manager leads warehouse and shipping staff, coordinates with production, inventory, sales, and carriers, and continuously improves shipping efficiency and service levels.

Key Deliverables

Key Responsibilities

Plan, coordinate, and manage daily shipping operations for finished beverage products. Ensure on-time, accurate order fulfillment in accordance with customer, distributor, and retailer requirements. Supervise shipping personnel, including loaders, forklift operators, and shipping coordinators; provide training and performance management. Schedule and manage outbound transportation, including LTL, FTL, refrigerated, and dedicated carriers. Collaborate with production and inventory teams to align shipping schedules with manufacturing output and inventory availability. Ensure compliance with food safety standards (e.g., GMPs, HACCP), DOT regulations, and company quality policies. Maintain accurate shipping documentation, bills of lading, export paperwork (if applicable), and carrier records. Monitor freight costs, negotiate with carriers, and identify opportunities for cost savings and efficiency improvements. Oversee proper handling, storage, and loading of beverage products to prevent damage, spoilage, or temperature excursions. Manage warehouse space utilization and dock scheduling to optimize throughput. Investigate and resolve shipping discrepancies, delays, damages, or customer complaints. Track and report key performance indicators (KPIs) such as on-time delivery, order accuracy, freight cost per case, and labor productivity. Support continuous improvement initiatives, including process optimization, safety programs, and system enhancements (WMS/ERP). Enforce workplace safety standards and promote a culture of safety and accountability.

Qualifications & Skills

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Logistics, Operations Management, or a related field preferred; equivalent experience considered. 12+ years of shipping/logistics experience in a manufacturing or distribution environment, preferably within the beverage or food industry. 5+ years of supervisory or management experience. Strong knowledge of transportation logistics, warehouse operations, and inventory flow. Familiarity with beverage-specific requirements such as temperature control, shelf life, lot tracking, and distributor compliance. Working knowledge of DOT regulations, food safety standards, and OSHA requirements. Proficiency with WMS, ERP systems, and Microsoft Office (Excel, Outlook). Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills. Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-volume environment with changing priorities.

Preferred Experience

Experience with alcoholic beverages (beer, wine, spirits) and related regulatory requirements. Experience managing union or hourly warehouse staff.
Lean, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement training.