Summary:
The Director of Plant Distribution is responsible for overseeing the distribution function to ensure that products are efficiently and effectively delivered to customers through proper inventory management and warehousing processes.
Primary Job Responsibilities:
Strategic Planning – Develop and implement distribution strategies aligned with overall business goals.
Collaborate with other departments to understand product demand and inventory requirements.
Operations Management – Oversee day-to-day distribution operations indirectly through Regional DC Managers and DC Leadership staff. Operations include but are not limited to safety, quality, warehousing, transportation, order fulfillment, HR, and facilities responsibilities. Optimize processes to improve efficiency and reduce costs. Define key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics to measure and improve performance. Regularly analyze data to identify areas for improvement.
Inventory Management – Manage inventory levels to meet customer demand while minimizing excess stock. Implement inventory control measures to prevent shortages or overstock situations. Optimize storage space to maximize utilization. Develop capacity constraint alternatives as needed.
Logistics Coordination – Coordinate transportation and logistics providers to ensure timely and cost-effective product delivery. Monitor and optimize transportation routes to reduce lead times and shipping costs.
Quality Control – Implement quality control measures to ensure accuracy in order fulfillment and minimize errors. Monitor and address any issues related to product quality during the distribution process.
Team Leadership – Build and lead a high-performing distribution team. Provide guidance, training, and performance feedback to team members. Develop succession planning strategy.
Cost Management – Monitor and control distribution costs to meet budgetary constraints. Identify opportunities for cost savings and process improvements.
Compliance and Regulations – Ensure compliance with applicable regulations related to manufacturing, distribution, and transportation. Stay informed about changes in regulations that may impact distribution operations.
Continuous Improvement – Foster a culture of continuous improvement, encouraging the implementation of best practices and innovation within the distribution function.
Customer Service – Collaborate cross functionally with Order Management, Supply Chain Planning, Sales, and Logistics to address customer inquiries, concerns, and delivery issues promptly.
Job Skills:
This position should possess the following skills/knowledge:
- Enterprise-wide leadership
- Strategic thinking
- Operational expertise
- Ability to build relationships cross functionally
- Ability to communicate with all levels of the organization
- Change management
Educational Requirements:
Bachelor’s degree in business, supply chain management, logistics, operations management, or related field. Master’s degree a plus.
Preferred Experience:
Seven plus years of progressive experience in leadership roles within supply chain, logistics, or related fields. Three plus years managing enterprise-wide transportation, logistics, warehouse, distribution and/or fulfillment function.