Aaron Nussbaum is recognized for his expertise in transportation, warehousing and business process improvement, as well as his ability to build high-performing teams and deliver operational excellence. Maintaining 15 years of progressive experience in the supply chain industry, he currently serves as VP of logistics operations at Jarrett, where he oversees a team of 73 professionals across several of Jarrett’s most critical divisions, including warehousing, international and truckload operations. His leadership has been instrumental in driving efficiency, scalability and innovation across the company’s logistics, transportation and brokerage operations.
But it’s his engagement in the day-to-day business that separates him from other logistics leaders, connecting with leaders across divisions, walking the floor and engaging directly with team members—from warehouse pickers and forklift operators to international shipment coordinators.
Under Nussbaum’s leadership, Jarrett’s warehousing operations expanded total warehouse space of 180,000 square feet to over 750,000 square feet across multiple facilities, including the company’s headquarter location in Orrville, Ohio.
Nussbaum also remains the driving force behind the warehousing division’s revenue growth, increasing by more than 3,000% over the past six years. He does so with hands-on leadership, optimized processes, enhanced safety and efficiency and implementing scalable systems across all facilities.
Beyond his operational leadership, Nussbaum plays a key role in shaping Jarrett’s long-term growth strategy. He actively evaluates opportunities for expansion, technology investments and process enhancements that improve efficiency and automation. He’s also cultivated a strong, people-centered culture, dedicated to mentoring future leaders and empowering his team to take ownership of their work, fostering engagement and excellence at every level.
Before joining Jarrett in 2019, he spent eight years with The J.M. Smucker Company, where he held key roles in corporate transportation, operations and warehousing, partnering with leading global retailers.
Over the next 12 months, Nussbaum aims to focus on the launch of Jarrett’s new Wooster, Ohio, warehouse.
Nussbaum sits down with Marina Mayer, editor-in-chief of Food Logistics and Supply & Demand Chain Executive and co-founder of the Women in Supply Chain Forum, to talk about how combining strategic vision with a people-first mindset drives company growth, revenue and culture.
Food Logistics: Let’s first talk about you. Tell me a little bit about yourself and your journey to get to this current stage in your career?
Aaron Nussbaum: My journey has always been driven by people and a willingness to work hard, no matter the circumstances. I started in this industry with a simple mindset: show up every day, give your best, and help others succeed. Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to work alongside mentors who taught me the value of integrity, humility, and servant leadership.
I joined Jarrett’s warehousing division in early 2019, and it felt like a place where I could truly make an impact. Today, as vice president of logistics operations, I oversee our warehousing and international divisions, along with trucking and brokerage operations. At the end of the day, my role is really about helping our teams do their jobs well and making sure our customers feel important, informed, and innovative.
Before coming to Jarrett, I spent eight years with The J.M. Smucker Company, working in corporate transportation, plant/warehousing operations, and corporate warehousing. That experience gave me exposure to large, complex supply chains and the expectations of customers like Amazon, Walmart, and Target. It taught me how important reliability and execution are, but also how much the people behind the scenes matter.
Food Logistics: One of the things outlined in your submission is how, under your leadership, Jarrett has experienced exceptional growth and transformation. What are some key factors in why this is?
Nussbaum: Honestly, it comes down to culture. Growth does not happen because of one person making decisions. It happens when people feel connected to what they are building.
We work hard to create an environment where people feel trusted and supported, and where they have real ownership of their work. When people feel like they are part of something bigger, they step up in ways that surprise even themselves. Watching that happen has been one of the most rewarding parts of my career.
Food Logistics: You’ve also spearheaded the launch of Jarrett’s 575,000-square-foot warehouse in Salt Lake City, Utah; and are leading the development of Jarrett’s third Ohio warehouse. At a time when most companies are closing or downsizing, what is your secret sauce?
Nussbaum: I never forget that warehouses do not run themselves. People run warehouses. So expansion only makes sense if you are confident in your team and clear on your purpose.
We spent a lot of time listening to our customers and asking the simple question, “how can we help?” We also made sure we had the right people in place who believed in the vision and were willing to roll up their sleeves. When that foundation is solid, taking big steps feels less risky and more like the natural next move.
Food Logistics: One of the goals outlined in your application is to continue mentoring your team and create meaningful opportunities for professional advancement. What does this look like?
Nussbaum: For me, mentorship is pretty simple. It is being available, listening, and giving people opportunities even when they are not one hundred percent comfortable yet.
I try to put people in positions where they can stretch and learn, and then support them along the way. You learn a lot more by doing than by being told what to do. Seeing someone gain confidence, take ownership, or realize they are capable of more than they thought is the part of the role I enjoy most.
Food Logistics: The Top Warehousing Leader recognizes professionals in the cold storage and warehousing space. What advice do you have for other warehousing professionals or even those looking to join the cold chain?
Nussbaum: Come in with a strong work ethic and an open mind. You do not have to have all the answers, but you do have to care and be willing to learn.
For people who have been in the industry a while, I would say do not get too comfortable. Things are changing fast. Stay curious, stay humble, and remember that leadership is really about serving others first. If you take care of your people, they will take care of everything else.
Food Logistics: What are some things not addressed above that would be pertinent to include in the article detailing your strengths, achievements, overall goals, etc.?
Nussbaum: Everything I am proud of has been built with a team. I have never believed in doing this alone. My goal is to build something that lasts; strong teams, solid systems, and meaningful opportunities for people to grow both personally and professionally.
Becoming a dad a little over a year ago has been a constant reminder that leadership is about more than strategy or titles. It is about showing up, doing the right things consistently, and inspiring others to reach their full potential. I am grateful for God’s guidance in this journey and for the incredible people He has placed in my life.
