VP of Operations

AMPORTS has been a leader in the global automotive services industry for more than 60 years, operating across multiple locations in the United States and Mexico. As one of the largest auto processors in North America, AMPORTS is committed to quality, safety, operational excellence, and customer satisfaction. Our purpose is to leverage our port and terminal infrastructure to deliver capacity, value, and supply chain solutions for finished vehicles.

Summary/Objective

The VP of OEM Operations provides senior‑level leadership oversight of AMPORTS vehicle processing and logistics operations at assigned terminals. Responsible for operational excellence, customer stewardship, safety performance, workforce leadership, compliance, financial management, and continuous improvement initiatives. Drives performance across all inbound/outbound vehicle flows, yard operations, VPC activities, rail and vessel interface. Ensures AMPORTS safety standards, OEM requirements, and QC/QA are consistently met or exceeded.

Essential Functions

Strategic & Operational Leadership

• Provide executive‑level direction for all General Managers of terminal operations, including vehicle processing, yard management, rail and vessel interface.
• Develop and execute operational strategies to increase throughput, improve velocity, and maximize yard and asset utilization.
• Lead multi‑year planning around capacity, infrastructure, capital needs, and operational technology.
• Drive AMPORTS operating standards, safety culture, and quality processes across all functions.

People Leadership & Workforce Planning

• Lead a team of General Managers; set performance expectations, coach leadership behaviors, and build bench strength.
• Foster a culture of accountability, engagement, safety, and continuous improvement.

Customer & Stakeholder Management

• Ensure customer requirements, KPIs, and contractual commitments are fully met.
• Lead customer reviews, performance reporting, and proactive issue resolution.
• Maintain strong relationships to support growth, new services, and long‑term partnerships.

Financial & Business Management

• Monitor labor, productivity, damage rates, and cost drivers; implement corrective actions to protect margin and service levels.
• Ensure billing accuracy, contract compliance, and timely resolution of AR issues.
• Identify and execute opportunities for operational efficiency and cost reduction.

Safety, Quality & Compliance

• Enforce AMPORTS safety programs, regulatory standards, and port security requirements (including TWIC and C-TPAT).
• Drive continuous improvement in safety KPIs, quality performance, and damage reduction.

Operational Excellence & Reporting

• Lead operational reviews, root‑cause analyses, and data‑driven improvement initiatives.

Competencies

• Executive‑level communication and relationship management.
• Strong understanding of vehicle logistics, port operations, VPC, yard flow, and OEM quality standards.
• Financial acumen with proven P&L management experience.
• Ability to solve complex operational challenges using data‑driven decision‑making.
• Skilled in labor planning, workforce optimization, and leadership development.
• High adaptability in a dynamic, high‑volume environment.
• Demonstrated integrity, judgment, resilience, and strategic thinking.

Supervisory Responsibility

Leadership oversight for terminal management.

Work Environment

Combination of office, yard, vessel/rail interface, and shop settings. Exposure to outdoor weather conditions, heavy equipment, and active vehicle movement with appropriate PPE.

Physical Demands

Primarily administrative with periodic field walks, inspections, and operational oversight requiring mobility across large yards and facilities.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work

Full‑time senior leadership position requiring extended hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays during peak operations or vessel schedules.

Travel

Up to 20% travel for customer meetings, corporate reviews, training, or support of other AMPORTS locations.

Required Education And Experience

• Bachelor's degree (B. A.) from four-year college or university.
• 10+ years in vehicle logistics, port operations, or OEM-related operations with 5+ years leading large organizations.

Proficiency in operational systems, yard management tools, reporting platforms, and standard business software.

Work Authorization/Security Clearance

Must be able to obtain TWIC badge (Transportation Working Identification Credential).

Must have a valid Driver’s License.

Other Duties

This description outlines primary responsibilities but does not limit the scope of work. Responsibilities may evolve to meet operational and customer needs.

AMPORTS is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of duties, responsibilities, or qualifications. Duties and responsibilities may change at any time with or without notice.