Michael Williard
New Lenox
Summary
Dynamic Linehaul Operations Manager with a proven track record, excelling in strategic planning and leadership. Enhanced team performance through effective mentorship and communication, achieving operational goals while fostering a culture of accountability. Skilled in problem-solving and optimizing resources, driving significant improvements in safety and service standards.
Overview
28
28
years of professional experience
Work History
Linehaul Operations Manager
ABF Freight
1900 East Lincoln Hwy Sauk Village IL
03.2016 - 04.2025
- Oversight of a 24/7 linehaul department with over 200 drivers and an office staff of 14.
- Responsible for achievement of company and department goals and objectives.
- Management of cost, service and safety.
- Supervised operations staff and kept employees compliant with company policies and procedures.
- Empowered employees to take ownership of their responsibilities, leading to increased accountability and improved performance outcomes.
- Conducted regular performance reviews, identifying areas for improvement and developing action plans to address them.
Midwest Linehaul Director
YRC Freight
Chicago Heights, IL
03.2013 - 03.2016
- Oversight of linehaul departments in St Louis, Chicago, St. Paul, Cleveland, Indianapolis and Salt Lake City.
- Responsible to assure all operations achieved the desired company goals and objectives.
- Developed high-performing teams by providing mentorship, guidance, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Enhanced team collaboration through regular communication, goal setting, and performance evaluations.
- Established a culture of continuous improvement by fostering open communication channels and empowering employees to voice their ideas.
- Cultivated a positive work environment that fostered employee engagement, increased retention rates, and boosted overall team morale.
Driver Supervisor
ABF Freight
1900 East Lincoln Hwy Sauk Village IL
03.2008 - 03.2013
- Promoted a culture of teamwork among drivers and supervisors, fostering collaboration and strong working relationships.
- Involved in driver hiring process.
- Managed driver schedules to accommodate changing demands, optimizing resources while maintaining customer satisfaction.
- Provided ongoing support to drivers throughout their employment journey, including orientation training sessions to new hires or refresher courses as needed.
- Overseeing of driver payroll and safety performance.
Linehaul Operations Manager
Yellow Freight System
Chicago Ridge, IL
03.1997 - 03.2008
- Oversight of over 600 drivers and an office staff of over 20 in a 24/7 dispatch department.
- Responsibility for achieving company and department goals while managing cost, service and safety.
- Supervised operations staff and kept employees compliant with company policies and procedures.
- Conducted regular performance reviews, identifying areas for improvement and developing action plans to address them.
- Maximized performance by monitoring daily activities and mentoring team members.
Education
Associate of Science - Transportation
The University of Akron
Akron Ohio06-1980
Skills
- Leadership
- Strategic planning
- Operations management
- Problem-solving
- Communications
- Recruiting
- Goal-setting and achievement
Timeline
Linehaul Operations Manager
ABF Freight
03.2016 - 04.2025
Midwest Linehaul Director
YRC Freight
03.2013 - 03.2016
Driver Supervisor
ABF Freight
03.2008 - 03.2013
Linehaul Operations Manager
Yellow Freight System
03.1997 - 03.2008
Associate of Science - Transportation
The University of Akron