Castore exists for one single reason – to make athletes better. Our ethos is built upon the philosophy of BETTER NEVER STOPS, an ideal deeply infused in our DNA and something we strive to live every single day. We utilise advanced engineering and unique technical fabrics to create the highest quality sportswear in the world for athletes who demand the very best. Designed with a passion for innovation with specialist features to help to optimise athletic performance in all conditions.
The founders' vision is to build Castore into a brand respected across the globe for a deep and unrelenting commitment to engineering the highest quality sportswear in the world, with no stone left unturned in its search for innovation and performance enhancement.
The sportswear market has been dominated by a small clique of mass-market brands and the vision is for Castore to be a premium alternative to these, the natural brand of choice for discerning athletes who demand the very best.
The Role
The Carrier Manager will be responsible for negotiating carrier contracts, rates and service levels, overseeing the selection, management, and performance of carriers and 3PL providers.
This new role is crucial to the Castore supply chain to enhance customer proposition, across both B2B and B2C movements, globally.
Working with internal Castore functions to recognise opportunities, plan and implement compliant improvements.
To continuously enhance customer proposition and drive the Castore ethos of 'Better Never Stops'.
This role is on a 12-month fixed-term contract and can be based at either our Head Office or our Knowsley Distribution Centre
Responsibilities
* Select and manage transportation carriers to support company logistics needs
* Negotiate carrier rates, service level agreements (SLAs), and fuel surcharges with carriers
* Monitor carrier performance, ensuring compliance with on-time delivery, damage claims, capacity commitments or service quality
* Develop and maintain effective relationships with carrier partners, acting as the main point of contact for escalations or service issues
* Analyse transportation costs and recommend cost-saving or service improvement initiatives
* Work cross-functionally with Castore central teams to help address logistics issues impacting customer satisfaction or operational efficiency
Key Performance Indicators
* Effective carrier relationships; carriers are responsive, reliable, and work collaboratively
* Carrier performance management; carrier scorecards are maintained and regularly reviewed. Underperforming carriers are held accountable or replaced promptly
* On-Time delivery rates; shipments consistently arrive on-time
* Proactive problem solving; issues like delivery delays, equipment shortages, or route disruptions are resolved quickly
* Regulatory compliance; all carriers meet legal and safety standards
* Cost control; carrier contracts are cost-effective and competitive. Carriage spend is well-managed
* Innovation & Continuous Improvement; proposes ideas that reduce transit times, reduces costs or enhances the customer experience
Skills & Experience
General Skills:
* Excellent communication skills together with the ability to negotiate and influence parties both within and outside of the business at all levels
* Commercially astute in order to drive appropriate decision making
* Analytical mind set and detail oriented
* Able to manage and prioritise own workload effectively especially in a time critical environment
* Effective work habits focusing on safety, quality and productivity
* Ability to work effectively in an autonomous environment
* Ability to work under pressure and prioritise workload
* Ability to work in silo or part of a team
Operating Skills:
* Logistics & Transportation expertise
* Carrier sourcing & negotiation
* Performance management & KPIs
* Cost analysis & budgeting
* Regulatory knowledge
* Problem solving
* Communication & relationship management
* Analytical & reporting skills
* Continuous improvement
Experience Required:
* Working within an logistics or transport environment
* Management experience
* Retail sector, wholesale and eCommerce experience (sports/fashion retail is preferred)
* Experience working with external partners
Personal Qualities:
* Excellent attention to detail
* Excellent communication skills
* Negotiation confidence
* Problem-solving mindset
* Analytical mindset
* Integrity & professionalism
* Approachable
What We Offer
* Competitive salary
* Discretionary bonus scheme
* 25 days annual leave (plus bank holidays)
* Modern city centre offices in Manchester
* An opportunity to work with global sporting partners
* Office breakout space with pool tables, dart board and TV's
* A chance to build a career with a fast paced, high growth brand
* Employee assistance programme
* Generous staff discount