Logistics Operations Leader with 25+ Years' Experience

KAREN SANDILANDS

Mesa, AZ ***** 630-***-****

PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY

Organized logistics professional with 25+ years of experience in freight operations, team leadership, and customer service. Proven track record of reducing costs, developing training programs, and managing complex import/export operations across North America. Skilled at building strong vendor relationships and leading teams in fast-paced environments.

CORE COMPETENCIES

Operations Management • Import/Export Coordination • Team Training & Development • Vendor Negotiations

Customer Service • Billing & A/R • Shipment Tracking • Cost Reduction • Compliance & Documentation

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

ITG Transportation Lisle, IL 2012–2026

Operations Supervisor (promoted from Operations Assistant/Dispatch)

• Manage daily import/export operations across North America, coordinating with clients and vendors to ensure on-time delivery

• Oversee shipment tracking, appointment scheduling, rail billing, storage payments, and import tracing

• Train and develop operations staff, implementing ongoing skills development initiatives

• Key Achievement: Launched dispatch contest that reduced vendor costs by engaging team in cost-reduction strategies

Seal Transportation Hoffman Estates, IL 2006–2012 FTL Customer Service/Logistics Planner Lead

• Delivered customer updates on shipment performance and resolved service concerns

• Negotiated competitive rates with asset-based carriers to optimize freight costs

• Assumed supervisory responsibilities during General Manager's absence, overseeing workflow and operational procedures

• Key Achievements: Built recruitment and onboarding process for new hires • Managed AR functions including billing, collections, and payment reconciliation EA Logistics Bensenville, IL 2000–2006

FTL Customer Service/Event & Expo Supervisor

• Resolved customer inquiries on shipment tracking, freight rates, and service issues

• Coordinated full and partial truckload shipments, negotiating rates and optimizing routing for cost efficiency

• Supervised team of 5, conducting training and operational audits

• Prepared invoices and partnered with sales to maintain customer satisfaction

• Key Achievements: Provided on-site tradeshow logistics support for exhibitors • Developed custom tariff structures for key accounts • Created comprehensive new hire training program

BAX Global Chicago, IL 1996–1999

Air Freight Specialist

• Managed international shipment documentation and regulatory compliance

• Obtained airline quotes, scheduled freight consolidations, and prepared shipping documentation

• Maintained airway bill tracking system for shipment visibility

• Processed accounts payable and managed office supply inventory

• Provided after-hours customer service support

• Key Achievements: Created standardized operating procedures for Mexico freight operations • Earned Dangerous Goods Specialist certification

Contact this candidate