Director of Logistics Strategy with a Food Distributor – Indianapolis, IN

Director Of Logistics Strategy With A Food Distributor Indianapolis IN 1

Role Overview for Director of Logistics Strategy with a Food Distributor – Indianapolis, IN

JRG Partners is proud to partner with a premier, high-growth food distributor in their search for a visionary Director of Logistics Strategy. Based in Indianapolis, IN, this is a critical leadership position responsible for architecting and executing the next generation of our client’s supply chain and logistics network. The successful candidate will be a strategic thinker with a deep understanding of the complexities of perishable goods distribution, capable of driving innovation, efficiency, and significant cost savings across a multi-state network.

In this role, you will be the central architect of a logistics function that is not just a cost center, but a competitive advantage. You will analyze, design, and implement transformative strategies for transportation, warehousing, final-mile delivery, and inventory flow. Reporting directly to the Vice President of Supply Chain, you will have the autonomy and resources to build a best-in-class logistics operation. Your work will directly impact the company’s ability to deliver fresh, high-quality products to its customers reliably and cost-effectively, securing its position as a market leader.

This position demands a leader who can balance long-term strategic planning with the tactical realities of a fast-paced, 24/7 operational environment. You will be challenged to leverage cutting-edge technology, sophisticated data analytics, and continuous improvement methodologies to solve complex logistical puzzles. We are seeking a change agent who can inspire a team, build robust processes, and foster strong partnerships with internal stakeholders and external vendors to achieve ambitious corporate goals.

The ideal candidate is not just a manager but a builder. You will inherit a solid operational foundation but will be expected to elevate its capabilities significantly. This includes developing sophisticated network models, championing automation and systems integration, and cultivating a culture of data-driven decision-making. Your success will be measured by your ability to improve key performance indicators such as cost-per-case, on-time delivery, network capacity utilization, and carrier performance while ensuring unwavering compliance with all food safety and transportation regulations. This is a unique opportunity to leave a lasting mark on a thriving organization and shape the future of food distribution logistics.

Key Responsibilities of Director of Logistics Strategy with a Food Distributor – Indianapolis, IN

Strategic Network Design & Optimization

Develop and execute a comprehensive, multi-year logistics strategy aligned with corporate growth objectives. Utilize advanced modeling software and data analysis to design the most efficient and cost-effective distribution network, including facility location, transportation routing, and inventory positioning.

Transportation Management

Oversee all inbound and outbound transportation functions, including fleet operations, dedicated carriage, and 3PL/brokerage management. Lead carrier negotiations, contract management, and performance reviews to ensure optimal service levels and rates.

Warehouse & Distribution Operations Strategy

Collaborate with warehouse operations leadership to develop strategies for improving facility layout, material flow, labor efficiency, and inventory accuracy. Champion the evaluation and implementation of warehouse automation and technology (WMS, voice picking, robotics).

Financial Acumen & Budgetary Control

Develop, manage, and own the multi-million dollar logistics budget. Conduct rigorous financial analysis to identify cost-saving opportunities, build business cases for capital investments, and report on key financial metrics and variances.

Technology & Innovation Leadership

Serve as the subject matter expert on logistics technology. Lead the selection, implementation, and optimization of Transportation Management Systems (TMS), route planning software, visibility platforms, and telematics. Stay ahead of emerging industry trends and technologies.

Performance Management & Analytics

Establish, monitor, and report on a robust set of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for all logistics functions. Drive a culture of continuous improvement by using data to identify root causes of issues and implement sustainable corrective actions.

Team Leadership & Development

Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of logistics managers, analysts, and planners. Set clear goals, provide regular feedback, and create development plans to foster talent and build bench strength within the organization.

Vendor and 3PL Partnership Management

Cultivate and manage strategic relationships with key third-party logistics providers, carriers, and technology vendors. Establish service level agreements (SLAs) and conduct regular business reviews to drive performance and innovation.

Regulatory Compliance & Risk Mitigation

Ensure absolute compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations, including DOT, FMCSA, and FDA/FSMA requirements for food transportation. Proactively identify potential risks within the supply chain and develop robust contingency plans.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

Act as a key strategic partner to Procurement, Sales, Finance, and Operations teams. Ensure seamless communication and alignment to support new business, promotional activity, and overall operational excellence.

Requirements for the Director of Logistics Strategy with a Food Distributor – Indianapolis, IN

Education

A Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field is required. An MBA or other advanced degree is highly preferred.

Experience

A minimum of 10-12 years of progressive experience in supply chain and logistics management, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role overseeing complex distribution networks.

Industry Expertise

Direct experience in the food distribution, grocery, consumer packaged goods (CPG), or refrigerated/perishable goods industry is mandatory. A deep understanding of cold chain logistics is critical.

Strategic Acumen

Demonstrated ability to think strategically, analyze complex situations, and develop and implement long-term plans that have a proven track record of driving business results.

Technical Proficiency

Expert-level knowledge of modern logistics technologies, including advanced TMS and WMS platforms. Experience with network modeling software (e.g., Llamasoft, JDA/Blue Yonder, or similar) is a significant asset.

Analytical Skills

Exceptional analytical, quantitative, and problem-solving skills. Proficiency with data analysis and visualization tools (e.g., Excel, SQL, Tableau, Power BI) to derive insights and support decision-making.

Leadership & Influence

Proven ability to lead, inspire, and develop large teams. Strong executive presence and communication skills, with the ability to influence and align stakeholders at all levels of the organization.

Negotiation & Financial Skills

Master negotiator with a history of successfully managing large-scale carrier and 3PL contracts. Strong financial acumen with extensive experience in budget creation, P&L management, and cost reduction initiatives.

Certifications

Professional certifications such as the CSCP (Certified Supply Chain Professional) or CLTD (Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution) from ASCM/APICS are strongly desired.

Benefits & Perks Offered

Our client is committed to investing in their employees and offers a highly competitive and comprehensive benefits package, including:

Competitive Compensation

A lucrative base salary complemented by a significant annual performance-based bonus.

Comprehensive Health Coverage

Excellent medical, dental, and vision insurance plans with low employee contributions.

Retirement Savings

A robust 401(k) plan with a generous company match to help you plan for your future.

Work-Life Balance

A generous paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick days, and paid holidays.

Professional Growth

Significant opportunities for career advancement, professional development, and tuition reimbursement for continued education.

Wellness Programs

Company-sponsored wellness initiatives and resources to support your physical and mental well-being.

Relocation Assistance

A comprehensive relocation package is available for the right candidate.

How to Apply

JRG Partners is conducting the exclusive search for this position. If you are a results-oriented logistics leader with a passion for strategy and innovation in the food industry, we encourage you to apply. To be considered for this pivotal leadership role, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your strategic logistics experience. For more opportunities within our network, we invite you to explore our Supply Chain and Logistics Recruiting practice area. We look forward to reviewing your qualifications.

Job Category: Supply Chain

Job Type: Full Time

Job Location: Indianapolis, IN

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Jeremy Gleason

Director of Logistics Strategy with a Food Distributor – Indianapolis, IN

Director Of Logistics Strategy With A Food Distributor Indianapolis IN

Role Overview for Director of Logistics Strategy with a Food Distributor – Indianapolis, IN

JRG Partners is proud to represent a premier, rapidly growing food distribution company in their search for a visionary Director of Logistics Strategy. Based in the strategic hub of Indianapolis, IN, this executive leadership role is critical to the company’s continued success and expansion. We are seeking a transformative leader who can architect and execute a sophisticated, forward-thinking logistics and supply chain strategy that aligns with our client’s ambitious growth objectives.

The Director of Logistics Strategy will serve as the principal architect of the entire logistics network. This is not merely an operational role; it is a strategic position demanding a blend of analytical rigor, innovative thinking, and inspirational leadership. You will be responsible for a holistic, end-to-end view of the supply chain, from inbound freight and warehousing to final-mile delivery and reverse logistics. Your primary mandate will be to design a scalable, resilient, and cost-effective logistics infrastructure that enhances customer service, optimizes inventory flow, and provides a significant competitive advantage in the dynamic food distribution market.

In this capacity, you will lead a talented team of logistics professionals, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, data-driven decision-making, and proactive problem-solving. You will be challenged to rethink existing processes, champion the adoption of cutting-edge technology, and build robust partnerships with carriers, 3PL providers, and internal stakeholders. Success in this role will be measured by your ability to drive tangible improvements in key performance indicators such as cost-per-case, on-time delivery, inventory accuracy, and network efficiency. This is a unique opportunity for a seasoned logistics expert to leave a lasting legacy on a thriving organization and shape the future of its supply chain operations.

Key Responsibilities of Director of Logistics Strategy with a Food Distributor – Indianapolis, IN

The Director of Logistics Strategy will have a broad and impactful scope of responsibilities, encompassing strategic development, operational excellence, and team leadership. Key duties include:

Strategic Planning & Execution

Develop, articulate, and implement a comprehensive, multi-year logistics and supply chain strategy that supports corporate goals. Conduct in-depth analysis of market trends, technological advancements, and competitive landscapes to identify opportunities for innovation and improvement.

Network Design & Optimization

Lead initiatives to continuously analyze and optimize the distribution network. Utilize advanced modeling and simulation tools to evaluate warehouse locations, inventory positioning, transportation routing, and flow paths to minimize costs and improve service levels.

Transportation Management Oversight

Provide strategic direction for all transportation functions, including inbound and outbound logistics, fleet management (if applicable), and carrier relations. Lead negotiations for freight contracts and manage relationships with key 3PL partners and carriers to ensure optimal performance, capacity, and rates.

Warehouse & Distribution Excellence

Set the strategic vision for all distribution centers. Drive best practices in inventory control, order fulfillment, slotting, labor management, and safety. Champion the evaluation and implementation of warehouse automation, robotics, and advanced Warehouse Management Systems (WMS).

Financial & Performance Management

Develop and manage the multi-million dollar logistics budget, including forecasting, variance analysis, and cost control. Establish, monitor, and report on a robust set of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to measure and manage the efficiency and effectiveness of the logistics operation.

Technology & Innovation Leadership

Act as the primary advocate for leveraging technology to enhance logistics capabilities. Research, recommend, and lead the implementation of new systems and tools, such as advanced Transportation Management Systems (TMS), real-time visibility platforms, AI-powered demand forecasting, and data analytics solutions.

Team Leadership & Talent Development

Lead, mentor, and inspire a high-performing team of logistics managers and specialists. Foster a collaborative and innovative culture, set clear objectives, and manage performance to build a best-in-class logistics organization.

Compliance & Risk Mitigation

Ensure the entire logistics network operates in strict compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations, including DOT, OSHA, and FDA food safety standards (FSMA). Proactively identify potential risks within the supply chain and develop robust contingency plans to ensure business continuity.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

Serve as a key partner to the executive team and collaborate closely with leaders in Procurement, Sales, Operations, Finance, and IT to ensure seamless integration and alignment of the logistics strategy with broader business objectives.

Requirements for the Director of Logistics Strategy with a Food Distributor – Indianapolis, IN

The ideal candidate will be a results-oriented and strategic leader with a proven track record of success in complex logistics environments. We are looking for an individual who combines deep technical expertise with exceptional business acumen and leadership skills.

Education

A Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Industrial Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field is required. An MBA or Master’s degree in a relevant discipline is strongly preferred.

Experience

A minimum of 12-15 years of progressive experience in supply chain and logistics management, with at least 7 years in a senior leadership capacity overseeing large-scale, complex logistics operations.

Industry Expertise

Significant experience within the food and beverage, consumer packaged goods (CPG), or grocery distribution industries is highly desirable. A deep understanding of the unique challenges of a perishable supply chain, including temperature control and food safety regulations, is critical.

Technical Skills

Demonstrated expertise in logistics network design, modeling, and optimization.
In-depth knowledge of transportation modes, carrier management, and freight negotiation.
Strong experience with modern logistics technologies, including Tier-1 WMS and TMS platforms.
Exceptional analytical skills with a proficiency in using data to drive decisions. Experience with data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI) is a plus.
Demonstrated commitment to supply chain management best practices and continuous improvement methodologies like Lean or Six Sigma.

Leadership & Management Skills

Proven ability to lead, develop, and motivate large, diverse teams.
Excellent strategic thinking and long-range planning capabilities.
Superior communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels of the organization, including the C-suite.
Strong financial acumen, with extensive experience in budget development and P&L management.
Exceptional negotiation skills and experience managing complex vendor and partner relationships.

Benefits & Perks Offered

Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top talent by offering a comprehensive and competitive compensation and benefits package. This includes:

Highly competitive base salary and an attractive executive bonus program tied to company and individual performance.
Comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance.
Robust 401(k) retirement plan with a generous company match.
Significant Paid Time Off (PTO), including vacation, sick days, and paid holidays.
Opportunities for professional growth and continued education.
Access to employee wellness programs and resources.
Relocation assistance may be available for an exceptional candidate.
An opportunity to work in a dynamic, collaborative, and growth-oriented environment where your contributions will have a direct and visible impact.

How to Apply

JRG Partners is exclusively managing the search for this pivotal Director of Logistics Strategy role. If you are a visionary logistics leader with the experience and drive to transform a supply chain and contribute to the success of a market-leading company, we invite you to apply.

To express your interest and submit your resume for confidential consideration, or to learn more about our specialized recruitment services in this sector, please visit our Supply Chain & Logistics Recruiting Practice page. We look forward to connecting with you.

Job Category: Supply Chain

Job Type: Full Time

Job Location: Indianapolis, IN