Role Overview for Director, Logistics Planning with a Major Retailer – Houston, TX
Are you a visionary logistics leader with a passion for architecting scalable, efficient, and customer-centric supply chains? JRG Partners is exclusively representing a premier, multi-billion-dollar retailer in their search for a Director of Logistics Planning. Based in their corporate headquarters in the dynamic city of Houston, TX, this executive role is a pivotal opportunity to shape the future of a household name and drive significant competitive advantage through strategic logistics excellence.
Our client is a market leader known for its vast product assortment, exceptional customer service, and a commitment to innovation. In today’s rapidly evolving retail landscape, the efficiency and resilience of the supply chain are more critical than ever. As the Director of Logistics Planning, you will be the strategic mind behind the movement of goods across a complex, high-volume network. You will not just manage processes; you will design, implement, and continuously refine the strategies that ensure products are in the right place, at the right time, and at the right cost.
This is a highly visible leadership role where you will be responsible for the end-to-end planning of the logistics network, from inbound freight and inventory flow to distribution center strategy and final-mile delivery. You will lead a talented team of planners and analysts, fostering a culture of data-driven decision-making, continuous improvement, and collaboration. Your work will directly impact key business outcomes, including profitability, inventory health, and, most importantly, the customer experience. If you are a strategic thinker who thrives on solving complex challenges and building world-class teams, we invite you to explore this career-defining opportunity.
Key Responsibilities of Director, Logistics Planning with a Major Retailer – Houston, TX
Strategic Network Design & Optimization
Develop and execute the long-term vision for the company’s distribution and transportation network. Conduct regular, in-depth analyses to optimize the location, size, and function of distribution centers, fulfillment hubs, and cross-dock facilities to support business growth, improve service levels, and reduce operating costs.
Advanced Inventory & Demand Planning
Lead the strategy for inventory positioning across the network. Collaborate with Merchandising and Planning teams to translate demand forecasts into actionable logistics plans, ensuring optimal inventory levels that maximize availability while minimizing carrying costs, markdowns, and stockouts.
Transportation Strategy & Management
Architect a sophisticated multi-modal transportation strategy for both inbound and outbound logistics. Oversee carrier relationship management, contract negotiations, and performance score-carding. Drive initiatives in route optimization, load consolidation, and last-mile delivery innovation to enhance speed and efficiency.
Leadership, Mentorship & Talent Development
Build, lead, and inspire a high-performing logistics planning organization. Set clear objectives, provide regular coaching and feedback, and champion professional development for your team. Foster a collaborative and analytical culture that attracts and retains top supply chain talent.
Budgetary Oversight & Financial Acumen
Assume full ownership of the multi-million-dollar logistics planning budget. Develop annual operating plans, provide accurate forecasting, and identify and execute on cost-saving opportunities without compromising service quality. Perform rigorous ROI analysis for all proposed capital investments in technology and infrastructure.
Cross-Functional Collaboration & Influence
Act as the central point of contact for all strategic logistics planning matters. Build strong partnerships with executive leadership and key stakeholders in Operations, Merchandising, Finance, IT, and E-commerce to ensure seamless alignment and execution of company-wide objectives.
Performance Analytics & Continuous Improvement
Establish, monitor, and report on a comprehensive set of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) covering cost, service, and quality. Leverage data analytics, business intelligence tools, and modeling software to uncover trends, identify root causes of issues, and drive a relentless cycle of continuous improvement.
Technology Roadmap & Innovation
Champion the evaluation, selection, and implementation of cutting-edge logistics technologies, including Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), and advanced planning software. Stay at the forefront of emerging supply chain management best practices, automation, and industry trends to ensure the company maintains a competitive edge.
Requirements for the Director, Logistics Planning with a Major Retailer – Houston, TX
Educational Background
A Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Industrial Engineering, Business Administration, or a related quantitative field is required. An MBA or a Master’s degree in a relevant discipline is strongly preferred.
Professional Experience
A minimum of 10-12 years of progressive experience in supply chain and logistics, with at least 5-7 years in a significant leadership role overseeing strategic planning functions.
Industry Expertise
Demonstrable experience within a high-volume, complex distribution environment is essential. A background in big-box retail, e-commerce, consumer packaged goods (CPG), or third-party logistics (3PL) is highly desirable.
Technical Proficiency
Expert-level knowledge of logistics planning principles and systems. Hands-on experience with modern ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle) and best-in-class TMS, WMS, and network modeling software is required. Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel, SQL, and data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI) is expected.
Analytical & Strategic Acumen
Proven ability to translate complex data and ambiguous situations into clear strategic plans and actionable insights. Strong financial acumen with experience managing large-scale budgets and performing complex cost-benefit analyses.
Leadership Qualities
A track record of successfully building, developing, and motivating large teams. Must be a decisive and empathetic leader, capable of managing change and influencing stakeholders at all levels of the organization, from the distribution center floor to the executive boardroom.
Communication Skills
Exceptional verbal, written, and presentation skills. Must be able to articulate a clear and compelling vision and communicate complex ideas effectively to a wide variety of audiences.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to investing in their employees and offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits package designed to support your well-being and professional growth. This includes:
Executive Compensation Package
A highly competitive base salary, a significant annual performance-based bonus, and long-term incentive opportunities.
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
A full suite of benefits including premium medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your dependents, as well as wellness programs and health savings accounts (HSA).
Retirement & Financial Planning
A robust 401(k) plan with a generous company match to help you plan for your future, plus access to financial planning resources.
Generous Paid Time Off
A substantial PTO policy, paid company holidays, and personal days to ensure a healthy work-life balance.
Relocation Support
A comprehensive relocation package for qualified candidates to facilitate a smooth transition to the vibrant city of Houston.
Career Growth & Development
Unparalleled opportunities for professional development, including tuition reimbursement, leadership training programs, and clear pathways for career advancement within a market-leading organization.
Employee Perks
A generous employee discount on all company products, access to on-site amenities, and participation in various corporate and community events.
How to Apply
If you are a strategic, data-driven, and results-oriented logistics leader ready to make a lasting impact at a major retail powerhouse, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity. This is a chance to lead a critical function within a dynamic company and take your career to the next level.
To be considered, please submit your confidential resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and your vision for this role. JRG Partners is proud to lead the exclusive search for this pivotal hire. We specialize in connecting top-tier talent with transformative career opportunities. To learn more about our dedicated focus in this area, please visit the JRG Partners’ Supply Chain & Logistics practice page.
Our client is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.
