Job Description

Van Andel Institute (VAI), a world-class biomedical research institute, located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, is dedicated to improving human health. We are pioneers in the fight against cancer, Parkinson's, and other diseases. We are committed to inspiring the next generation of scientists and educators.

VAI's Materials Management group is looking for a highly motivated and collaborative Logistics Manager to join their team to oversee a team of 3 and help lead the Institute's logistics operations by overseeing shipping, receiving, internal distribution, and related processes for both domestic and international activities.

Your key areas of responsibility will include:

• Provide strategic leadership and operational oversight for all logistics activities, including domestic and international shipping and receiving.
• Ensure all shipments and receipts, including regulated and hazardous materials, comply with applicable institutional policies, trade regulations, and safety requirements.
• Administer logistics and shipping systems (Workday, SCLogic, eShipGlobal), ensuring accurate configuration, user support, and effective system performance.
• Establish departmental goals, priorities, and performance standards aligned with institutional objectives.
• Lead, mentor, and develop logistics staff, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Design and monitor workflow plans to ensure efficient and timely handling of all shipments.
• Lead all import/export operations in accordance with governing trade regulations, export control requirements, and institutional compliance standards, serving as the primary expert for complex international shipments and regulatory matters.
• Serve as the primary contact for complex shipments and regulatory questions, engaging with transportation providers, customs brokers, and government agencies.
• Develop and maintain procedures, compliance documentation, and operational tools to standardize processes.
• Analyze and monitor vendor performance, negotiate service agreements, and resolve service issues.
• Approve and balance staffing coverage to meet operational demands.
• Address personnel issues and lead performance management activities, including evaluations and corrective action when necessary.
• Prepare and analyze management reports to monitor performance, compliance, and cost efficiency.
• Provide high-level operational support during peak demand, staffing gaps, or institutional priorities.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Necessary qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Logistics, Supply Chain, Business, or related experience and a minimum of 5-10 years of progressive experience in logistics, supply chain, or related field, with direct responsibility for domestic and international shipping and compliance.
• Customs brokerage experience strongly preferred.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong knowledge of regulatory compliance, trade regulations, and safety requirements.
• Proficiency with ERP systems and shipping/logistics management software, including reporting and operational tracking tools.
• Experience in an academic, nonprofit, or research environment preferred.

Description of a successful Candidate:

• A self-motivated and driven individual who is able to exhibit exceptional productivity and take responsibility for independent management of a project.
• A detail-oriented individual who keeps a clear grasp of the big picture.
• A team player with a proven ability to lead, develop, and retain high-performing teams.
• An individual who leads through process design and continuous improvement.

Application Process:

If you possess these attributes and enjoy working with motivated and driven people, we welcome speaking with you and encourage you to apply online today by submitting a single combined pdf including:

• An up to date Resume
• A Cover Letter outlining your interests and goals

If you have questions about the application process or working at VAI you are welcome to email Natalie Hartford, Senior Talent Acquisition Specialist at natalie.hartford@vai.org

ABOUT VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE

Van Andel Institute (VAI) is committed to improving the health and enhancing the lives of current and future generations through cutting-edge biomedical research and innovative educational offerings. Established in Grand Rapids, Michigan, in 1996 by the Van Andel family, VAI is now home to more than 650 scientists, educators and support staff, who work with a growing number of national and international collaborators to foster discovery. The Institute’s scientists study the origins of cancer, Parkinson’s and other diseases and translate their findings into breakthrough prevention and treatment strategies. Our educators develop inquiry-based approaches for K–12 education to help students and teachers prepare the next generation of problem-solvers, while our Graduate School offers a rigorous, research-intensive Ph.D. program in molecular and cellular biology. Learn more at vai.org.

Van Andel Institute is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and Vietnam Era Veterans Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA) Employer. We are committed to cultivating a workplace in which different perspectives and experiences are welcomed and respected. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, ancestry, national origin, sex, age, disability (physical or mental), marital or veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, political ideology, or membership in any other legally protected class. We are an Equal Opportunity employer.

As Van Andel Institute is a drug free employer, all prospective new employees undergo a urinalysis/drug test as part of our pre-employment process. This is a 7-panel drug screen and it includes testing for Marijuana, Cocaine, Amphetamines, Opiates, PCP, Barbiturates, and Benzodiazepines.

About Grand Rapids, MI

Van Andel Institute is in downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan in the center of the Medical Mile. A remarkable combination of a cosmopolitan atmosphere and small-town warmth, Grand Rapids is known for its philanthropic and sustainability-driven community. It’s fun affordable and family-friendly.

Located on the banks of the Grand River, Grand Rapids offers all the big-city excitement you'd expect from a million-resident metropolis, featuring hundreds of restaurants and nightspots, theaters, museums, sports and concerts. The safe and clean downtown is surrounded by an eclectic mix of walkable neighborhoods and natural areas. The downtown area is safe and clean with an eclectic mix of walkable neighborhoods and natural areas.