Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Affiliations
Timeline
Generic

Stephen Taylor

Chapin

Summary

Dynamic Operations Manager with a proven track record at Southeastern Freight Lines, specializing in process improvement and team leadership. Expert in data analysis and conflict resolution, driving operational efficiency and enhancing service quality. Successfully implemented strategies that improved transit times and on-time arrivals, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

Overview

16
16
years of professional experience

Work History

Central Dispatch Operations Manager

Southeastern Freight Lines
Columbia
03.2022 - Current
  • Initiate specific daily follow up with Linehaul and service center personnel (Service Center Manager, Assistant Service Center Manager, Operations Manager, and frontline leadership) to achieve continuous improvement through organized process improvement in the following areas: transit time performance, Linehaul efficiencies, on-time arrivals at destination, load plan adherence and improvement, line driver utilization, and system driver home percentage.
  • Supervise and lead the interaction and activities of the Central Dispatch staff during the inbound dispatch cycle to promote teamwork and synergy in the Linehaul functions.
  • Responsible for ensuring that Central Dispatchers are actively participating in organized process improvement using the basic tools for process improvement.
  • Participate in the training and coaching of new front-line leadership involved in the outbound operations of the service center.
  • Monitor purchased transportation performance and costs and makes recommendations when warranted.
  • Provide training for new associates.
  • Support and assist the individual Dispatchers on duty as needed during peak periods.
  • Resolve problems with drivers or field leadership as they occur during the dispatch cycle.
  • Hold quarterly meetings on employee growth and development, operational strategy, staffing and operational analysis.
  • Improve, implement and refine the processes and procedures in Central Dispatch through the use of statistical process improvement tools.

Process Improvement Specialist

Southeastern Freight Lines
Columbia
10.2019 - 03.2022
  • Develop and manage complex data analysis reports for 88 Service Centers across the Southeastern United States to continuously improve internal and external quality measures.
  • Analyze and research data trends utilizing Tableau, Microsoft Excel Pivot tables, macros and formulas.
  • Present opportunities for improvement to executives and managers in weekly meetings to ensure customer needs are met in the most cost-effective manner.

Operational Supervisor

Southeastern Freight Lines
Baton Rouge
02.2015 - 09.2019
  • Responsible for leading and motivating a workgroup of freight handlers and P&D drivers in a manner that will achieve continuous measurable improvement, desired performance goals and results.
  • Primary duties involve managing associates and ensuring timely, damage free loading and unloading of 600-700 shipments going out for delivery.
  • Interview, hire, train and develop new employees with a major focus on instilling our core values and culture to create alignment.
  • Ensure a safe, healthy work environment and endeavors to keep associate morale at a high level.

Operation / Warehouse Manager

Stein Service and Supply
Charlotte
06.2009 - 02.2015
  • Manage multiple crews of 4 installers, providing clear customer instructions, build specifications, and oversight of product and equipment delivery to ensure timely and accurate project completion.
  • Conduct pre-work safety meetings, communicate site-specific restrictions, and enforce compliance to maintain a safe working environment.
  • Negotiate freight prices and rental equipment cost to maximize company profitability.
  • Meet with clients to assess project scope, determine material requirements, and ensure alignment with customer expectations.
  • Place precise orders for pallet racks, mezzanines, and lockers tailored to customer specifications, minimizing waste and ensuring project success.
  • Oversee warehouse employees, fostering a positive and collaborative environment while maintaining operational efficiency and high morale.

Education

High School Diploma -

Waynesville High School
Waynesville
06-2002

Some College (No Degree) - Computer and Information Sciences

The Ohio State University
Columbus, OH

Skills

  • Data analysis
  • Process improvement
  • Team leadership
  • Employee training
  • Operational efficiency
  • Conflict resolution
  • Customer service
  • Time management
  • Problem solving
  • Decision making
  • Project management
  • Client account management
  • Manpower planning
  • Proficient in Microsoft Suite
  • Logistics management
  • Hiring and onboarding

Affiliations

  • Fishing/Boating
  • Hiking
  • Biking
  • Camping

Timeline

Central Dispatch Operations Manager

Southeastern Freight Lines
03.2022 - Current

Process Improvement Specialist

Southeastern Freight Lines
10.2019 - 03.2022

Operational Supervisor

Southeastern Freight Lines
02.2015 - 09.2019

Operation / Warehouse Manager

Stein Service and Supply
06.2009 - 02.2015

High School Diploma -

Waynesville High School

Some College (No Degree) - Computer and Information Sciences

The Ohio State University
Stephen Taylor