Logistics Forward Model Costing Specialist

Logistics Forward Model Costing

As a key member of the IMG MP&L team, you will be responsible for providing excellent optimal Freight cost for New Programs. You will work closely with Purchase and PD on Supplier Selection, ensuring the best cost for Ford. You will analyze MP&L costs, design optimal networks for new programs, and identify opportunities for direct shipment, working with PD & Purchase on localization. Your expertise will be crucial in supporting business case development and influencing key decisions related to Forward Model costing, with a strong focus on cost efficiency and collaboration across departments.

• Inbound Cost Management: Deliver excellent, comprehensive Inbound Variable Cost estimates—including Freight, Duty, Markup, and other MP&L-associated costs, with a strong focus on accuracy.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Collaborate effectively with Finance, Program Engineering, Purchasing, and MP&L teams to estimate and optimize the Total Enterprise Landed Cost for new vehicle and powertrain programs.
• Logistics Network Optimization: Analyze network design elements for inbound production materials and design the most efficient logistics networks for upcoming models in the IMG region, maintaining a clear focus on optimization.
• GPDS & Gateway Management: Manage the cost roadmap at each GPDS gateway; identify risks and opportunities to offset MPL cost increases prior to Job #1, demonstrating an excellent forward-thinking approach.
• Strategic Sourcing Support: Actively participate in SET (Sourcing Evaluation Team) meetings, providing data-driven insights to influence sourcing decisions and supplier selection through strong collaboration.
• Cost Modeling & Systems: Develop, maintain, and update MP&L program cost models using Ford’s global systems (WERS, WIPS, CMMS3, etc.), with an excellent attention to detail and a focus on data integrity.
• Value Engineering & Localization: Lead "Design for Logistics" (DFL) initiatives by evaluating direct shipment and localization opportunities with Purchasing to reduce total logistics spend, fostering close collaboration.
• Decision Support & Business Cases: Support the development of robust business cases by providing excellent cost recommendations and analytical insights to assist senior management in the decision-making process, with a focus on strategic impact.
• Progress Reviews: Conduct regular progress reviews with manufacturing plants and functional teams to ensure alignment with cost and efficiency targets, promoting continuous collaboration and accountability

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering preferred.
• 6-8+ years of experience in logistics, supply chain, packaging or finance/costing.
• Experience in the automotive industry, specifically within Powertrain operations, is highly preferred.
• Solid understanding of Ford's logistics business and network designs.
• Proven ability to generate cost reduction ideas, solve complex problems in logistics, and identify the best network and best cost solutions.
• Familiarity with Ford's MP&L systems (WERS, WIPS, CMMS3, Team center etc.).
• Strong analytical skills and proficiency in financial tools for cost analysis. 
• Preferred experience with analytical tools such as Power BI, Looker Studio, and Python, as well as other software tools like Power Apps, Power Automate, and Google Cloud Platform.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and teamwork skills.
• Ability to understand the Product design, experienced in CAD tools.
• Ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams and senior management.

Experience Level

Senior Level