Director, Inbound Logistics with a Food Distributor – Memphis, TN

Role Overview for Director, Inbound Logistics with a Food Distributor – Memphis, TN

JRG Partners is proud to partner with a premier, nationally recognized food distribution company in their search for a strategic and results-oriented Director of Inbound Logistics. Based in the critical logistics hub of Memphis, TN, this executive-level position is a cornerstone of our client’s supply chain leadership team. The successful candidate will be responsible for architecting and executing a world-class inbound logistics strategy that ensures the timely, efficient, and safe flow of perishable and non-perishable goods from a diverse network of domestic and international suppliers to our distribution centers.

This is not merely an operational role; it is a strategic imperative. You will be tasked with transforming the inbound supply chain into a competitive advantage, driving significant cost savings, enhancing supplier relationships, and ensuring unwavering compliance with stringent food safety regulations. You will lead a dedicated team of logistics professionals, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, data-driven decision-making, and operational excellence. Your vision will directly impact inventory levels, product availability, and the overall profitability of the organization. If you are a seasoned logistics leader with a deep understanding of the complexities of food distribution and a passion for building resilient, efficient supply chains, we invite you to explore this exceptional opportunity.

The position requires a leader who can balance high-level strategic planning with hands-on operational oversight. You will be the primary architect of the inbound network, from carrier negotiation and selection to technology implementation and performance management. Your success will be measured by your ability to optimize transportation costs, improve on-time delivery metrics, minimize spoilage, and ensure seamless coordination between suppliers, carriers, and our internal warehousing teams. This role offers a unique platform to make a tangible impact on a thriving organization at the forefront of the food industry.

Key Responsibilities of Director, Inbound Logistics with a Food Distributor – Memphis, TN

Strategic Planning & Network Optimization

• Develop, implement, and continuously refine the long-term strategy for all inbound transportation and logistics activities, aligning them with overall company goals for growth, cost control, and customer service.
• Conduct comprehensive network analysis to optimize supplier shipping points, transportation lanes, and carrier selection, identifying opportunities for consolidation, mode shifting (e.g., LTL to FTL), and backhauls to reduce costs and improve efficiency.
• Lead the annual budgeting and quarterly forecasting process for inbound freight spend, providing detailed variance analysis and actionable insights to senior leadership.
• Champion cross-functional collaboration with Procurement, Inventory Management, and Operations teams to create an integrated supply chain strategy that improves forecast accuracy and optimizes inventory flow from source to shelf.

Carrier & Supplier Relationship Management

• Direct all aspects of carrier management, including sourcing, negotiation of rates and contracts, and performance monitoring for all modes of transport (truckload, LTL, intermodal, drayage).
• Establish and maintain a robust carrier scorecard program, tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) such as on-time pickup/delivery, tender acceptance rates, cost-per-mile, and compliance with safety and temperature-control requirements.
• Cultivate strong, strategic partnerships with key suppliers to improve inbound scheduling, load visibility, and compliance with shipping standards, working proactively to resolve any logistical challenges.
• Develop and manage a risk mitigation strategy for transportation capacity, building a flexible and reliable carrier base to navigate market volatility and ensure product availability during peak seasons.

Operational Excellence & Performance Management

• Provide dynamic leadership and direction to the inbound logistics team, overseeing daily operations to ensure the smooth and efficient movement of products from suppliers to distribution centers.
• Define, monitor, and report on critical inbound logistics KPIs, leveraging data to identify trends, pinpoint root causes of issues, and drive targeted performance improvements.
• Oversee the freight audit and payment process, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and the resolution of carrier disputes.
• Establish and enforce standard operating procedures (SOPs) for all inbound processes, including appointment scheduling, receiving, and quality inspection coordination, to ensure consistency and efficiency across the network.

Compliance, Safety, & Quality Assurance

• Ensure absolute compliance with all transportation-related regulations, including DOT, FMCSA, and importantly, the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) rules for the sanitary transport of food.
• Uphold and enhance cold chain integrity protocols for all temperature-sensitive shipments, utilizing temperature monitoring technology and carrier accountability to prevent product spoilage and ensure food safety.
• Collaborate with the Quality Assurance team to develop and manage inbound inspection processes, addressing any supplier non-conformance or product damage issues promptly and effectively.
• Champion a safety-first culture within the team and with all carrier partners, ensuring adherence to all safety protocols at loading docks and in transit.

Requirements for the Director, Inbound Logistics with a Food Distributor – Memphis, TN

Education & Professional Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, or a related field is required. An MBA or Master’s degree is highly preferred.
• A minimum of 10-12 years of progressive experience in logistics and transportation management, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role managing a significant team and budget.
• Direct experience within the food distribution, grocery retail, or consumer packaged goods (CPG) industry is mandatory.
• Proven track record of successfully managing large-scale inbound logistics operations, including significant experience with temperature-controlled freight and cold chain management.
• Demonstrable experience in negotiating complex carrier contracts and managing a multi-million dollar freight budget.

Skills & Technical Competencies

Expertise in Logistics Technology

Advanced proficiency with Transportation Management Systems (TMS) for planning, execution, and visibility. Experience with Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) and major ERP platforms (e.g., SAP, Oracle) is also crucial.

Analytical & Financial Acumen

Exceptional analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex data, model transportation networks, and make data-backed strategic decisions. Strong financial skills for budgeting, forecasting, and cost analysis.

Leadership & Communication

Proven ability to lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly and persuasively to executive leadership, internal teams, and external partners.

Negotiation & Problem-Solving

World-class negotiation skills and a history of achieving favorable terms with carriers and 3PLs. A creative and tenacious problem-solver who can navigate ambiguity and resolve complex logistical challenges under pressure.

Certifications & Qualifications

• Professional certifications such as Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) from ASCM/APICS or Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution (CLTD) are highly desirable.
• In-depth knowledge of transportation law, freight claims, and industry best practices.
• Ability to travel as needed (estimated 15-20%) to visit suppliers, carriers, and other company sites.

Benefits & Perks Offered

Our client is committed to investing in their employees and offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits package designed to support your health, well-being, and financial future. This includes:

Competitive Compensation

A highly competitive base salary, annual performance-based bonus, and long-term incentive potential.

Comprehensive Health Coverage

Medical, dental, and vision insurance plans with multiple coverage options for you and your family.

Retirement Savings

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

Paid Time Off

A generous policy for vacation, sick days, and paid company holidays to support a healthy work-life balance.

Professional Growth

Opportunities for continuous learning, including tuition reimbursement, support for professional certifications, and attendance at industry conferences.

Wellness Programs

Company-sponsored wellness initiatives, an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), and other resources to support your physical and mental health.

Additional Perks

Employee discounts on company products, life and disability insurance, and relocation assistance for qualified candidates.

How to Apply

JRG Partners is exclusively managing the recruitment for this critical role. If you are a transformative logistics leader ready to make a significant impact in the food distribution industry, we encourage you to apply.

Please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and strategic accomplishments. To be considered, please apply through our dedicated portal. For more information on our expertise in this area, you can learn more about JRG Partners’ Supply Chain & Logistics practice.

We are 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. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.