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Job Description
General Details Title:
Distribution Manager An established food production facility that maintains the highest certifications in food & safety. Operating 364 days of the year, we marry traditional techniques with the latest technology, resulting in consistent, world-class quality. Mission Statement Committed to the quality and consistency of our products and dedicated to providing our customers with outstanding, responsive, and personal service. Our Story Our wide range of customers include the area's leading restaurants, premier hotels, culinary service groups, catering companies, government organizations and gourmet delis. With over twenty years of combined industry experience, we continue to be directly involved in all areas of the business. Job Description Position Summary The Distribution Manager is responsible for leading and optimizing all distribution operations. This role oversees the daily management of dispatch, drivers, and fleet operations while ensuring efficient product delivery, regulatory compliance, and high service standards. The Distribution Manager will drive operational excellence by improving delivery efficiency, monitoring key performance metrics, ensuring fleet reliability, and maintaining strict compliance with food safety and transportation regulations. This role works closely with Production, Quality Assurance, and Operations leadership to ensure timely and safe delivery of products to customers. The ideal candidate is a hands-on logistics leader who thrives in a fast-paced food manufacturing environment and is capable of building strong teams, improving processes, and maintaining high operational standards. Key Responsibilities Distribution Operations Leadership Lead the Distribution Department , including the Junior Supervisor, Dispatchers, and Drivers. Oversee all daily delivery operations to ensure on-time, accurate, and safe product distribution . Manage staffing, hiring, training, scheduling, performance management, and disciplinary actions within the department. Develop and monitor department KPIs , including: On-time delivery performance Driver productivity Route efficiency Fleet utilization Delivery accuracy Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, service levels, and operational cost control . Fleet Management & Vehicle Compliance Manage the company fleet of vans and box trucks , ensuring vehicles remain safe, clean, and fully operational. Ensure compliance with preventative maintenance schedules , including oil changes, tires, inspections, and repairs. Implement and oversee daily vehicle inspection procedures at the end of each driver's shift, including: Vehicle condition Fuel levels Cleanliness and appearance Equipment and rack counts Coordinate fleet maintenance with vendors and service providers. Safety, Compliance & Quality Ensure distribution operations comply with
FDA FSMA
regulations and company food safety programs . Enforce compliance with GMP, HACCP, and SQF standards related to transportation and product handling. Ensure all drivers participate in required food safety, compliance, and operational training . Support internal and external audits , maintaining accurate documentation and records. Technology, Analytics & Reporting Utilize fleet management systems such as Geotab to monitor driver performance, route efficiency, and vehicle safety. Analyze distribution data and develop performance reports and operational insights . Ensure compliance with internal systems and applications including Enterprise and Penske platforms . Track department performance and report key metrics to leadership. Cross-Department Collaboration Work closely with Production, Quality Assurance, Operations, and Sanitation teams to coordinate distribution activities. Ensure proper handling and transportation of products in accordance with food safety standards . Communicate operational updates, challenges, and improvement opportunities to leadership. Qualifications Required Skills Strong leadership and team management capabilities . Excellent organizational, administrative, and operational planning skills . High level of attention to detail and accountability . Ability to analyze data and improve operational performance . Strong communication and problem-solving abilities . Ability to work independently and lead a fast-paced distribution operation . Technical Knowledge Knowledge of food safety and regulatory programs such as:
HACCP GMP SQF FDA FSMA
regulations (Training can be provided if needed.) Education High School Diploma or GED required Associate or Bachelor's Degree in Logistics, Supply Chain, Business Administration, or related field preferred Experience 5-10 years of experience in distribution, logistics, or transportation operations 3-5 years of leadership or management experience Experience in food manufacturing, food distribution, or regulated environments strongly preferred Key Leadership Competencies Operational leadership Team development Process improvement Compliance and safety management Performance management Data-driven decision making What We Offer Competitive compensation Career growth opportunities Stable and growing food manufacturing company Collaborative leadership environment
