Distribution Manager

Role Summary

1. Strategic Leadership & Transformation

• Define and execute the national distribution strategy covering primary transport, last-mile delivery, and fleet operations, aligned with business growth and service objectives.
• Drive continuous cost optimization initiatives, delivering sustainable savings across transport, warehousing, and maintenance.
• Lead digital transformation initiatives including route optimization systems, telematics, TMS, and real-time visibility tools.
• Establish robust distribution performance frameworks (KPIs, SLAs, dashboards) to enable data-driven decision making.
• Conduct network optimization studies (DC footprint, routing models, outsourcing vs in-house) to improve speed, cost, and service levels.

2. End-to-End Distribution Operations

• Oversee daily operations of multi-site distribution network (8+ DCs) ensuring high service levels, on-time delivery, and operational efficiency.
• Manage and optimize primary transport flows from suppliers/manufacturing to distribution centers.
• Lead execution of last-mile delivery operations, ensuring route efficiency, load optimization, and customer satisfaction.
• Drive route planning, truck utilization, and drop density improvements to maximize asset productivity.
• Ensure seamless order cycle management from allocation to final delivery, with strict adherence to SLAs.
• Implement corrective actions for service failures, customer complaints, and operational disruptions.

3. Fleet & Maintenance Management

• Direct full lifecycle management of 500+ fleet (owned and outsourced) including utilization, maintenance, compliance, and renewal strategy.
• Establish preventive maintenance programs to ensure fleet reliability, safety, and cost control.
• Optimize fleet sizing, replacement strategy, and outsourcing mix based on demand patterns and cost-benefit analysis.
• Manage warehouse equipment (MHE) availability, safety, and maintenance efficiency.
• Ensure full compliance with transport regulations, safety standards, and corporate policies.

4. Financial Management & Cost Control

• Own and manage distribution budget (transport, maintenance, labor, and overheads) with strong focus on cost discipline.
• Lead financial planning cycles including budgeting, forecasting, and variance analysis.
• Identify and execute cost-saving initiatives across freight, fuel, routing, labor productivity, and vendor contracts.
• Develop and track cost-to-serve models and KPIs (cost per drop, cost per ton, utilization rates).
• Ensure optimal ROI on logistics assets and infrastructure investments.

5. Performance Management & Analytics

• Define and manage key KPIs such as OTIF, fleet utilization, cost per delivery, route efficiency, and service levels.
• Leverage analytics to identify inefficiencies and implement continuous improvement initiatives.
• Conduct regular performance reviews and implement action plans to close gaps.
• Benchmark performance against industry best practices to maintain competitive advantage.

6. Vendor & Contract Management

• Lead negotiation and management of transport and 3PL contracts, ensuring optimal commercial terms and service quality.
• Develop strategic partnerships with logistics providers to enhance capacity flexibility and resilience.
• Monitor vendor performance through structured SLAs and scorecards.

7. People Leadership & Capability Building

• Lead and develop large, multi-level teams across distribution centers, transport operations, and maintenance units.
• Build a high-performance culture focused on accountability, continuous improvement, and service excellence.
• Drive capability building through training, coaching, and structured development programs.
• Set clear performance objectives and KPIs aligned with business goals.
• Foster strong engagement across teams to improve retention and productivity.

Job Qualifications

• Bachelor’s / master’s degree in industrial or mechanical engineering or in distribution operations, and sales management would be preferred.
• 8+ years of experience preferably in logistics and distribution sector