Michael Durkin

Director of Transportation

Professional Overview
Michael Durkin is an accomplished transportation and logistics executive with over 15 years of experience driving strategic initiatives and operational excellence across the consumer goods and food & beverage industries. As the Director of Transportation at S&S Activewear and the Sr Director of North America Logistics & Warehousing at Beam Suntory, he leverages his deep expertise in freight management, supply chain optimization, and transportation network design to deliver measurable business impact.

Experience Summary

Current Roles
Director of Transportation, S&S Activewear (2024-04-01 to Present)

• Oversees all aspects of the company's transportation and freight operations, including carrier management, route optimization, and cost reduction strategies

• Spearheaded the implementation of a new transportation management system (TMS), resulting in a 12% improvement in on-time delivery and a 6% reduction in transportation costs

• Collaborates cross-functionally with sales, inventory, and procurement teams to align transportation plans with evolving business needs

Sr Director North America Logistics & Warehousing (US, Canada and Mexico), Beam Suntory (2019-10-01 to Present)

• Responsible for the strategic direction and operational execution of Beam Suntory's logistics and warehousing operations across North America

• Drove a 15% improvement in warehouse productivity by streamlining workflows and implementing new warehouse management technologies

• Played a key role in the integration of newly acquired distribution centers, ensuring a seamless transition and minimal disruption to customer service

Career Progression
Prior to his current roles, Michael held senior transportation and logistics positions at leading food and beverage companies, including:

• Director of North America Freight and Logistics at McCain Foods (2018-01-01 to 2019-10-01)

• Sr. Director of Transportation at TreeHouse Foods (2011-01-01 to 2018-01-01)

• Director of Transportation and Warehousing at TreeHouse Foods (2014-01-01 to 2016-01-01)

• Sr. Logistics Manager - Western Region at Sara Lee (2005-01-01 to 2011-03-01)

Throughout his career, Michael has demonstrated a track record of driving operational improvements, optimizing transportation networks, and building high-performing teams to support the growth and efficiency of leading consumer brands.

Academic Background
Michael holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Supply Chain Management from the University of Illinois at Chicago, where he graduated with honors.

Areas of Expertise

• Transportation and freight management

• Supply chain optimization and network design

• Logistics and warehouse operations

• Project management and process improvement

• Cross-functional collaboration and stakeholder management

• Data analysis and performance-driven decision making

Professional Impact

• Developed and implemented a nationwide transportation strategy that reduced freight costs by 8% and improved on-time delivery by 10% for a major food manufacturer

• Led the integration of newly acquired distribution centers, resulting in a 15% increase in overall warehouse productivity

• Spearheaded the implementation of a new transportation management system, leading to a 12% improvement in on-time delivery and a 6% reduction in transportation costs

Conclusion
With his extensive experience, strong leadership skills, and data-driven approach, Michael Durkin is poised to continue driving strategic initiatives and operational excellence in the transportation and logistics industry. Recognized for his ability to optimize supply chain performance and deliver measurable business impact, he is well-equipped to contribute to the success of S&S Activewear and Beam Suntory in their respective markets.