JAMES A. FERRELL
MURFREESBORO,TN
Summary
Detail-oriented procurement and logistics professional with a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration and over five years of experience in procurement operations, transportation management, and supply chain logistics. Skilled in supporting procurement teams, managing transportation networks, and ensuring compliance and performance metrics are met. Proven ability to identify and evaluate suppliers, maintain strong relationships, and streamline processes. Seeking a position where I can leverage my analytical, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills to optimize.
Logistics professional with extensive knowledge in freight coordination and supply chain management. Proven ability to streamline operations, enhance efficiency, and ensure accuracy in shipment documentation. Reliable team player with focus on collaboration and adaptability.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
Work History
Ocean Freight Specialist
V.Alexander & Co
Nashville, TN
11.2024 - Current
- Execute daily customer orders and vendor requirements, ensuring compliance with necessary documents and processes
- Respond to customer inquiries, invoice questions, and other correspondence professionally and promptly
- Maintain shipment system data and document integrity for client web tracking
Lead, Import Traffic Operations
V.Alexander & Co
Nashville, TN
08.2021 - Current
- Coordinated import operations by liaising with ocean freight forwarders, customs brokers, and trucking companies to ensure seamless transportation processes
- Developed and maintained relationships with stakeholders to enhance transportation activities and service levels
- Managed transportation schedules, including ocean bookings and domestic pickups/deliveries, ensuring timely delivery of goods
- Ensured compliance with customs regulations by submitting import documents promptly and resolving discrepancies
- Reviewed retailer orders for accuracy, including timing, quantities, and inventory availability
- Tracked retail orders from shipment through delivery, maintaining a record of BOLs and PODs to address vendor chargebacks efficiently
- Communicated professionally with internal and external stakeholders
- Implemented improvements in templates for PO-specific documents and tools
Transportation Analyst/ Transportation Management
Geodis
Nashville, TN
07.2019 - 06.2021
- Supported transportation operations by analyzing route performance and rates, identifying opportunities for enhancing service quality and reducing costs
- Collaborated with internal and external parties to manage transportation schedules and improve network efficiency
- Implemented continuous improvement initiatives to streamline transportation processes and enhance overall network performance
Air Import Agent
Panalpina
Nashville, TN
07.2018 - 07.2019
- Coordinated customer shipments and tracked international shipments to ensure timely delivery
- Communicated with air carriers and resolved customer inquiries regarding import processes
Lead, Customer Service/CSR
Cardinal Health
La Vergne, TN
09.2014 - 07.2018
- Managed customer relationships and resolved issues to ensure high satisfaction levels
- Collaborated with upper management to identify and address operational issues
- Processed customer orders, tracked shipments, and conducted necessary follow-ups to ensure timely deliveries
- Training employees; planning, assigning, and directing work
- Coaching and supporting subordinates
Education
Bachelor's Degree - Business Administration/Technical Management
DeVry University
Nashville, TN01.2019
Skills
- Contract Administration and Negotiation
- Strong Communication and Interpersonal Skills
- Knowledge of OEM Shipping Requirements
- Proficiency in Database Software and Microsoft Office Suite
- Understanding of Transportation Routing Systems and Freight Payment Systems
- Expertise in Excel (Pivot Tables, VLOOKUP, Index Matching)
- Knowledge of EDI and ERP/WMS Systems
- Proactively monitors and follows up on purchase orders
- Negotiates pricing and payment terms
- Continuously evaluates sourcing options
- Ensures accuracy of ERP data and supplier information
- Actively supports and participates in LEAN initiatives
- Adheres to purchasing policies and procedures
- Communicates clearly and effectively with all team members
Timeline
Ocean Freight Specialist
V.Alexander & Co
11.2024 - Current
Lead, Import Traffic Operations
V.Alexander & Co
08.2021 - Current
Transportation Analyst/ Transportation Management
Geodis
07.2019 - 06.2021
Air Import Agent
Panalpina
07.2018 - 07.2019
Lead, Customer Service/CSR
Cardinal Health
09.2014 - 07.2018
Bachelor's Degree - Business Administration/Technical Management
DeVry University