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# Director of Logistics with a Food Distributor – Phoenix, AZ



JRG Partners is proud to partner with a premier, rapidly growing food distribution company in their search for a strategic and results-oriented Director of Logistics. Based in the vibrant hub of Phoenix, AZ, this is a critical leadership role responsible for the entire logistics and distribution network. Our client is a leader in the food service industry, renowned for their commitment to quality, freshness, and exceptional customer service.
They are seeking a visionary leader who can not only manage the complexities of a modern food supply chain but also drive innovation and efficiency to support the company’s ambitious growth plans. This is a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on a company’s success by shaping the future of its supply chain operations, ensuring the seamless flow of goods from supplier to customer while upholding the highest standards of safety and quality.
Role Overview for Director of Logistics with a Food Distributor – Phoenix, AZ
The Director of Logistics is a senior leadership position that holds ultimate responsibility for the strategic planning, execution, and optimization of all logistics operations. This includes transportation, warehousing, inventory management, fleet operations, and order fulfillment. You will be at the helm of a dynamic department, tasked with ensuring that products are stored, handled, and delivered safely, on time, and within budget. In the fast-paced food distribution industry, where product integrity and timeliness are paramount, your leadership will be the cornerstone of our client’s operational excellence and customer satisfaction.
You will develop and implement long-term strategies that enhance operational efficiency, reduce costs, and improve service levels. This role requires a blend of high-level strategic thinking and hands-on operational management. You will be expected to analyze complex data, identify trends, and make informed decisions that align with the company’s financial and strategic objectives. Furthermore, you will be a key member of the senior management team, collaborating closely with Sales, Procurement, Operations, and Finance to ensure a cohesive and integrated approach to business success. Your ability to lead and inspire a diverse team of logistics professionals, foster a culture of continuous improvement, and navigate the challenges of a complex supply chain will be critical to your success.
Key Responsibilities of Director of Logistics with a Food Distributor – Phoenix, AZ
As the Director of Logistics, you will oversee a wide range of functions, ensuring every aspect of the supply chain is running at peak performance. Your duties will be comprehensive and will require a deep understanding of logistics principles and food industry regulations.
Strategic Leadership & Planning
Develop and execute a comprehensive logistics and supply chain strategy that supports the company’s overall goals for growth, profitability, and customer satisfaction. Design and implement network optimization plans to improve efficiency and reduce transportation costs.
Transportation Management
Oversee all inbound and outbound transportation activities, including carrier selection, contract negotiation, and performance management. Manage the company’s private fleet operations, ensuring compliance with all DOT regulations, optimizing routes, and managing vehicle maintenance schedules.
Warehouse & Distribution Center Operations
Direct all warehousing activities across multiple facilities, including receiving, put-away, inventory control, order picking, and shipping. Ensure the efficient utilization of space, labor, and equipment. Implement and manage best practices for cold chain management to maintain product quality and safety from dock to delivery.
Inventory Control & Management
Develop and maintain robust inventory control procedures to ensure high levels of accuracy. Work closely with the procurement and sales teams to manage inventory levels, minimize stockouts, and reduce carrying costs. Oversee cycle counting programs and physical inventories.
Financial & Performance Management
Develop and manage the annual logistics budget, including transportation, warehousing, labor, and capital expenditures. Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) such as on-time delivery, cost-per-case, inventory accuracy, and order fill rates. Provide regular performance reports to the executive team.
Team Development & Leadership
Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of logistics managers, supervisors, and associates. Foster a positive and collaborative work environment that emphasizes safety, quality, and continuous improvement. Establish clear goals and expectations for the team and provide ongoing coaching and feedback.
Technology & Process Improvement
Champion the use of technology, such as Transportation Management Systems (TMS) and Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), to drive efficiency and visibility. Champion a culture of continuous improvement by implementing and refining supply chain management best practices, leveraging methodologies like Lean and Six Sigma to eliminate waste and enhance performance.
Compliance & Risk Management
Ensure all logistics operations are in full compliance with local, state, and federal regulations, including those from the FDA, USDA, and DOT. Develop and implement safety programs to ensure a secure working environment for all employees. Proactively identify and mitigate risks within the supply chain.
Vendor & 3PL Partnership Management
Manage relationships with third-party logistics (3PL) providers, carriers, and other logistics vendors. Conduct regular business reviews to ensure service levels are met and to identify opportunities for partnership enhancement.
Requirements for the Director of Logistics with a Food Distributor – Phoenix, AZ
The ideal candidate is a seasoned logistics professional with a proven track record of success in the food distribution or a related industry. You possess a strategic mindset, strong analytical skills, and exceptional leadership abilities.
Education
A Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field is required. An MBA or a Master’s degree in a relevant field is highly preferred.
Experience
A minimum of 10-12 years of progressive experience in logistics and supply chain management, with at least 5-7 years in a senior leadership role (Director level or equivalent).
Industry Expertise
Direct experience in the food and beverage distribution, CPG, or refrigerated/perishable goods industry is essential. Deep knowledge of cold chain logistics and food safety regulations (FSMA, HACCP) is required.
Technical Skills
Proven expertise with modern logistics technology, including advanced WMS and TMS platforms. High proficiency in data analysis and financial modeling using tools like Microsoft Excel, SQL, or business intelligence software.
Leadership Acumen
Demonstrated ability to lead, manage, and motivate large, diverse teams in a fast-paced environment. Experience in change management and driving cultural shifts towards continuous improvement.
Financial Management
Strong financial acumen with experience in P&L management, budgeting, forecasting, and cost control for a significant operational department.
Negotiation & Communication
Exceptional negotiation skills with a history of successfully managing contracts with carriers, 3PLs, and other vendors. Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly to executive-level stakeholders.
Certifications
Professional certifications such as Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) from APICS or Certified in Transportation and Logistics (CTL) from AST&L are a strong plus.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top talent by offering a comprehensive and competitive compensation and benefits package. They believe in investing in their employees’ well-being and professional growth.
Competitive Compensation
A highly competitive base salary and a significant performance-based annual bonus potential.
Comprehensive Health Coverage
Excellent medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your eligible dependents.
Retirement Savings
A robust 401(k) plan with a generous company match to help you plan for your future.
Paid Time Off
Ample paid time off, including vacation days, sick leave, and paid company holidays, to support a healthy work-life balance.
Professional Development
Opportunities for continuous learning, including support for certifications, conferences, and leadership training programs.
Employee Wellness
Access to wellness programs and resources to support your physical and mental health.
Additional Perks
Employee discounts on company products, team-building events, and a collaborative and supportive work culture.
How to Apply
If you are a strategic logistics leader with a passion for the food industry and a drive for operational excellence, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity. JRG Partners specializes in connecting top-tier talent with industry-leading companies. To be considered for this role, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and accomplishments.
To learn more about similar opportunities or to explore our expertise in this sector, please visit our Supply Chain & Logistics Practice Area. We look forward to reviewing your application and discussing how you can contribute to our client’s continued success.