Role Overview for VP of Distribution Operations – Atlanta, GA
JRG Partners, a premier executive search firm, is partnering with a leading industry innovator to identify a highly strategic and results-oriented Vice President of Distribution Operations. This critical executive leadership role is based in the vibrant logistics hub of Atlanta, GA, a location renowned for its strategic importance in national and international supply chains. As the VP of Distribution Operations, you will be instrumental in shaping the future of our client’s distribution network, driving operational excellence, and ensuring seamless, efficient, and cost-effective product flow from origin to customer.
This position demands a visionary leader with a proven track to optimize complex distribution processes, leverage cutting-edge technology, and build high-performing teams. Reporting directly to the executive leadership team, you will hold significant P&L responsibility and be accountable for all aspects of distribution center performance, inventory management, logistics, and customer fulfillment. The ideal candidate will be a transformational leader capable of driving continuous improvement initiatives, fostering a culture of safety and accountability, and significantly contributing to the company’s strategic growth objectives.
If you are an experienced supply chain executive with a passion for innovation and a desire to make a substantial impact, we invite you to explore this exceptional opportunity.
Key Responsibilities of VP of Distribution Operations – Atlanta, GA
- Strategic Leadership & Vision: Develop, articulate, and execute a comprehensive distribution strategy that aligns with the overall corporate objectives, market demands, and customer expectations. Drive long-term planning for network optimization, capacity expansion, and technology adoption.
- Operational Excellence & Efficiency: Oversee all aspects of multi-site distribution center operations, including warehousing, inventory management, order fulfillment, shipping, receiving, and reverse logistics. Implement lean methodologies, Six Sigma principles, and other continuous improvement initiatives to enhance productivity, reduce costs, and improve service levels.
- Team Leadership & Development: Recruit, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of distribution professionals, fostering a culture of engagement, accountability, safety, and continuous learning. Provide strong leadership, coaching, and performance management to ensure individual and team success.
- Budget & P&L Management: Manage multi-million dollar operating and capital budgets for distribution operations. Monitor key financial metrics, identify areas for cost reduction, and ensure adherence to financial targets while maintaining service excellence.
- Technology & Innovation: Evaluate, recommend, and implement advanced warehouse management systems (WMS), transportation management systems (TMS), automation technologies (e.g., robotics, AS/RS), and data analytics tools to drive efficiency, accuracy, and scalability. Stay abreast of emerging logistics technology trends and best practices.
- Supply Chain Integration & Collaboration: Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams including procurement, manufacturing, sales, marketing, and transportation to ensure seamless end-to-end supply chain integration. Optimize inbound and outbound logistics processes to support overall business objectives.
- Inventory Management & Accuracy: Implement robust inventory control systems and processes to ensure high levels of inventory accuracy, minimize stockouts, and optimize inventory turns. Oversee cycle counting, physical inventories, and reconciliation processes.
- Safety, Compliance & Quality Assurance: Ensure all distribution operations comply with federal, state, and local regulations, including OSHA, DOT, and environmental standards. Implement and maintain rigorous safety protocols and quality assurance programs to protect employees, products, and assets.
- Customer Satisfaction: Champion a customer-centric approach, ensuring that distribution operations consistently meet or exceed customer service level agreements (SLAs) regarding order accuracy, on-time delivery, and responsiveness. Address and resolve any service-related issues promptly and effectively.
- Risk Management: Identify potential risks within the distribution network and develop mitigation strategies to ensure business continuity and resilience against disruptions.
- Performance Reporting & Analytics: Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for all distribution functions. Provide regular, insightful reports to executive leadership on operational performance, cost efficiency, and strategic progress.
Requirements for the VP of Distribution Operations – Atlanta, GA
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, Industrial Engineering, or a related field is required. An MBA or Master’s degree in a relevant discipline is highly preferred.
- Experience: A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in distribution, logistics, and supply chain operations, with at least 7-10 years in a senior leadership role (Director or VP level) managing large-scale, multi-site distribution networks.
- Industry Expertise: Proven experience in high-volume, complex distribution environments within industries such as retail, e-commerce, consumer goods, manufacturing, or a similar fast-paced sector. Deep understanding of modern warehousing, material handling, inventory management, and transportation strategies.
- Technical Proficiency: Demonstrated expertise with leading Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) such as Manhattan Associates, Blue Yonder, SAP EWM, Oracle WMS, or similar enterprise-level platforms. Familiarity with Transportation Management Systems (TMS) and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems.
- Leadership & Management Skills: Exceptional leadership capabilities with a track record of building, motivating, and developing high-performing teams across multiple locations. Strong ability to lead change management initiatives and foster a collaborative, results-driven culture.
- Strategic & Analytical Acumen: Proven ability to develop and execute strategic plans, analyze complex data, identify trends, and make data-driven decisions that impact the bottom line. Strong problem-solving skills and a proactive approach to operational challenges.
- Communication & Interpersonal Skills: Excellent verbal, written, and presentation skills. Ability to effectively communicate with all levels of the organization, from front-line associates to the C-suite, and with external partners. Strong negotiation and influencing skills.
- Financial Savvy: Demonstrated experience managing large budgets, controlling costs, and driving profitability within distribution operations. Understanding of P&L statements and financial forecasting.
- Continuous Improvement: Solid understanding and practical application of Lean principles, Six Sigma methodologies, and other continuous improvement tools.
- Location & Travel: This position is based in Atlanta, GA, and requires the ability to work onsite. Some domestic travel may be required to other distribution centers or corporate offices.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client offers a comprehensive and highly competitive compensation package designed to attract and retain top-tier executive talent. This includes:
- An attractive base salary commensurate with experience and industry standards.
- Performance-based annual bonus and long-term incentive programs.
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
- Generous paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick leave, and company holidays.
- 401(k) retirement savings plan with a substantial company match.
- Life insurance, short-term and long-term disability coverage.
- Opportunities for professional development, executive coaching, and continuous learning.
- Relocation assistance may be provided for eligible candidates.
- A dynamic, innovative, and supportive work environment where your contributions are valued and impactful.
- The chance to lead and shape the strategic direction of a growing and respected organization.
How to Apply
If you are a distinguished leader in distribution operations ready to take on a pivotal executive role, JRG Partners invites you to confidentially submit your resume for consideration. Please apply directly through our website or send your detailed resume and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience to our executive search team.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and value diversity at our company. To learn more about our expertise in this sector, please visit our Supply Chain & Logistics Executive Search practice area page.
