District Manager - Dearborn

AWCT•Dearborn, MI

21h•Onsite

About The Position

The District Manager provides leadership and oversight for two or more facilities, ensuring operational excellence, financial performance, and customer satisfaction across all terminals in the district through data-driven decision-making, root-cause analysis, and continuous improvement across district operations. The District Manager directly supervises General Managers, Terminal Managers, and/or other support positions. This position collaborates with executive leadership to align district performance with company strategy and optimize workflows, quality outcomes, and cross-functional execution. The District Manager plays a key role in customer engagement, sales support, and continuous improvement initiatives, while fostering a culture aligned with the organization's vision, mission, and values. The District Manager serves as a primary liaison between AWCT, customers, railroads, vendors, and internal support functions including Quality, Safety, and Human Resources to ensure alignment, resolve operational challenges through root-cause analysis, and drive cross-functional collaboration. This role requires strong operational oversight, financial acumen, labor relations experience, and the ability to lead through change in a dynamic, multi-site environment. AWCT is family-owned and operated. Our vision: We are the premier provider of finished vehicle logistics in the United States. Our mission: We take pride in delivering safe, efficient, and high-quality service for every customer vehicle. Our values: We respect each person's preferences and perspectives. This position ensures consistent alignment with AWCT's vision, mission, and values.

Requirements

Legally authorized to work in the United States
High school diploma or equivalent required
5+ years of experience working in an operations, quality, and/or customer liaison position for an Original Equipment Manufacturer (e.g., Ford, General Motors, Honda, Toyota)
5+ years of experience in auto processing or a shipping/receiving environment
5+ years of functional leadership experience overseeing multiple locations, with accountability for team performance, execution, and issue resolution
Proven experience overseeing cross functional projects related to quality, IT and operations
Advanced analytical expertise to translate data into actionable insights, drive decision-making and root-cause analysis, and lead continuous improvement efforts to enhance operational efficiency and quality outcomes across district operations
Strong understanding of business math, financial reports, and operational metrics
Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel and business intelligence (BI) tools
Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills
Ability to remain calm and effective in high-pressure situations
Proven ability to lead with autonomy while maintaining accountability
Strong delegation, decision-making, and problem-solving skills
Ability to work effectively with a diverse workforce
Demonstrated attention to detail and ability to produce accurate, organized reports
Ability to communicate performance gaps diplomatically and assertively
Commitment to confidentiality and ethical business practices
Ability to work in extreme weather conditions when required
Valid state driver's license
Good vision, including visual acuity, depth perception, and the ability to distinguish colors

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree preferred

Responsibilities

Provide overall leadership and oversight of assigned AWCT facilities, including supervision of General Managers, Terminal Managers, and/or support staff and indirect oversight of other management/supervisory staff and hourly associates.
Monitor daily, weekly, and monthly production performance across facilities, adjusting resources and strategies as needed to meet operational goals and proactively address performance gaps through root-cause analysis.
Ensure plant and rail operations meet customer requirements, safety standards, and business objectives with a strong focus on customer advocacy and adherence to quality agreements.
Review and analyze production, quality, maintenance, and operational reports to identify trends, root causes, and corrective actions and implement sustainable process improvements across locations.
Review wage-to-revenue reports and profit & loss statements on a daily, weekly, and monthly basis.
Provide clear, actionable feedback to direct reports and senior leadership regarding financial performance and opportunities for improvement while enabling informed, data-driven decision-making.
Support financial analysis related to new customers, contract renewals, and operational changes.
Interface directly with customers and their representatives to address operational issues, service expectations, and business opportunities while strengthening customer relationships and advocating for service excellence.
Maintain strong working relationships with railroads, vendors, and plant representatives to support seamless operations and effective cross-functional collaboration.
Ensure customer contracts are reviewed and renewed in a timely manner, with appropriate adjustments approved by the Vice President of Operations.
Collaborate with facility management and HR partners regarding hiring, training, performance management, associate relations, and staffing strategies to ensure alignment with operational needs and customer expectations.
Participate in union-related activities including grievance resolution, arbitrations, and collective bargaining negotiations in partnership with Labor Relations, HR, and outside counsel.
Promote a culture of respectful, constructive engagement with associates and labor representatives while fostering accountability, problem-solving, and continuous improvement.
Uphold and model AWCT's values, mission, and commitment to safety and quality.
Support or lead start-ups for new customers and facilities, including operational planning and financial evaluation.
Partner with Quality and Safety on continuous improvement initiatives and facility or process enhancements focused on workflow optimization and measurable performance gains.
Communicate operational challenges, risks, and proposed solutions to the Vice President of Operations with clear linkage to root causes and recommended corrective actions.
Perform other duties as assigned to support district and company objectives.