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
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
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
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
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
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