Contract Logistics Distribution Team Leader

It's more than a job

As a Contract Logistics Distribution Team Leader, you will support the Supervisor in coordinating daily distribution activities, managing customer escalations and maintaining strong service performance. This is a hands-on role for someone who takes ownership, communicates confidently with customers and carriers, and enjoys solving operational problems in a fast-paced environment

Responsibilities

• Coordinate distribution activities and work closely with warehouse teams to ensure accurate, timely and efficient handovers.
• Act as a key point of contact for operational escalations, customer complaints and service disputes, taking ownership through to resolution.
• Communicate directly with customers to understand issues, manage expectations and provide timely, practical solutions.
• Build and maintain strong working relationships with internal stakeholders, carriers, suppliers and other service partners.
• Oversee claims processes, investigate discrepancies and delivery issues, and coordinate appropriate follow-up actions.
• Monitor operational performance, analyse data and prepare accurate, timely reports on key performance indicators, service levels and productivity.
• Support cost management, productivity, customer service and profitability targets through effective coordination and issue resolution.
• Identify recurring issues and process gaps, conduct root cause analysis and implement continuous improvement initiatives.
• Support change management activities and new operational initiatives, ensuring process changes are communicated and implemented effectively.
• Work collaboratively with the Supervisor and wider team to manage competing priorities, particularly during seasonal peaks and periods of increased volume.
• Maintain strong attention to detail across operational processes, documentation, claims and customer communications.
• Promote a safe working environment and ensure adherence to standard operating procedures and relevant compliance requirements.
• Support customer onboarding, retention and operational excellence initiatives as required.
• Travel occasionally between Sydney and Melbourne to support collaboration and operational alignment.

Requirements

• 2–4 years of experience in transport, distribution, logistics or supply chain operations.
• Previous exposure to customer service issues, delivery escalations, claims or dispute resolution.
• Experience coordinating with carriers, suppliers, warehouse teams or other operational stakeholders.
• Ability to analyse operational data, monitor KPIs and prepare accurate reports.
• Strong communication skills, including confidence handling direct customer conversations.
• Good organisational skills, attention to detail and the ability to manage competing priorities under pressure.
• Familiarity with Microsoft Outlook and general reporting tools.
• Exposure to continuous improvement, root cause analysis or change management is advantageous.
• Previous formal team leadership experience is desirable but not essential.

Who we are

Kuehne+Nagel is a global leader in logistics, specialising in innovative supply chain solutions.

At Kuehne+Nagel Australia, we pride ourselves on fostering an inclusive and respectful culture where collaboration thrives, and every voice is valued. Step into a workplace recognised for its commitment to excellence, having earned Great Place to Work recognition for multiple years. Be part of dynamic teams where innovation meets opportunity and join a company that supports your growth while making a difference in the world of logistics.

Make your mark with us today!