Role Overview for VP, Logistics & Transportation with a Food Distributor – Memphis, TN
JRG Partners is proud to lead a confidential executive search for a transformative Vice President of Logistics & Transportation on behalf of our client, a premier, multi-billion-dollar food distribution company. Based in the strategic logistics hub of Memphis, Tennessee, this executive will serve as the principal architect of the company’s entire transportation and logistics network. This is not merely an operational role; it is a strategic leadership position charged with building a world-class, scalable, and cost-effective supply chain infrastructure to support aggressive company growth.
The ideal candidate is a visionary leader with a profound understanding of the complexities of modern food distribution, including cold chain integrity, last-mile delivery, and network optimization. You will inherit a sizable operation and be empowered to challenge the status quo, drive innovation, and implement best-in-class processes and technologies. Reporting directly to the Chief Supply Chain Officer, the VP of Logistics & Transportation will be a key member of the senior leadership team, with direct influence on the company’s profitability, customer satisfaction, and market position.
You will be responsible for a significant multi-hundred-million-dollar budget and lead a large, geographically dispersed team of dedicated logistics professionals. If you are a strategic operator who thrives on building, optimizing, and leading high-performing logistics functions in a fast-paced environment, this is a career-defining opportunity.
Key Responsibilities of VP, Logistics & Transportation with a Food Distributor – Memphis, TN
The Vice President of Logistics & Transportation will have a broad and impactful scope of responsibilities, encompassing strategic planning, operational execution, financial stewardship, and team leadership. Success in this role requires a hands-on yet strategic approach to managing all facets of product movement.
Strategic Leadership & Network Design
- Develop and execute a comprehensive, long-term logistics and transportation strategy that aligns with the company’s overall business objectives, growth projections, and customer service goals.
- Conduct continuous analysis of the distribution network, utilizing advanced modeling and data analytics to identify opportunities for optimization, cost reduction, and service enhancement.
- Lead network design and re-engineering projects, including the evaluation of new distribution center locations, cross-dock facilities, and transportation hubs to improve efficiency and market penetration.
- Champion a culture of innovation within the logistics function, staying at the forefront of the industry by continuously evaluating and implementing best practices and emerging technologies in food supply chain management.
- Serve as the primary logistics thought leader within the organization, providing expert counsel to the executive team and collaborating cross-functionally with Sales, Procurement, Operations, and Finance to ensure seamless integration.
Operational Excellence & Performance Management
- Direct all inbound and outbound transportation activities, including fleet management (private and dedicated), 3PL/carrier management, and final-mile delivery operations across all temperature zones (frozen, refrigerated, ambient).
- Establish, monitor, and drive accountability for a robust set of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) including on-time in-full (OTIF), cost-per-mile, cost-per-case, fleet utilization, driver safety, and customer satisfaction metrics.
- Implement and champion continuous improvement methodologies such as Lean, Six Sigma, or Kaizen to eliminate waste, improve process flow, and enhance operational efficiency throughout the logistics network.
- Oversee the management of a large private fleet, including asset procurement, maintenance programs, driver routing and scheduling, and fuel strategy.
- Develop and manage a sophisticated 3PL and carrier management program, including rigorous selection criteria, contract negotiation, performance scorecards, and strategic relationship development.
Financial Acumen & Budgetary Oversight
- Develop, own, and manage the P&L for the entire logistics and transportation department, including an annual budget of several hundred million dollars.
- Conduct rigorous forecasting, variance analysis, and monthly financial reviews to ensure all budgetary targets are met or exceeded.
- Lead all major procurement and negotiation efforts for transportation services, equipment leases, technology solutions, and other key contracts, leveraging scale to achieve favorable terms and pricing.
- Perform detailed cost-benefit analyses and develop compelling business cases for capital expenditures and strategic initiatives, such as new technology adoption or fleet expansion.
Team Leadership & Talent Development
- Lead, mentor, and develop a high-caliber team of logistics professionals, including Directors, Managers, and front-line staff across multiple sites.
- Foster a culture of safety, accountability, collaboration, and high performance, setting clear expectations and providing regular coaching and feedback.
- Champion talent development within the department by creating clear career paths, implementing robust training programs, and executing effective succession planning for critical roles.
- Structure the logistics organization for optimal efficiency and scalability, ensuring the right talent is in the right roles to support future growth.
Compliance, Safety & Risk Management
- Ensure absolute compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations, including DOT, FMCSA, FDA (FSMA), and OSHA standards.
- Oversee the development and implementation of a best-in-class safety program for all drivers and warehouse personnel, with the goal of achieving a zero-incident workplace.
- Develop and maintain comprehensive business continuity and risk mitigation plans to address potential disruptions to the supply chain, such as weather events, labor disputes, or carrier failures.
Requirements for the VP, Logistics & Transportation with a Food Distributor – Memphis, TN
Required Qualifications
Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in logistics, transportation, and supply chain management, with at least 7-10 years in a senior leadership role (Director or VP level) overseeing a large, complex distribution network.
Industry Expertise
Direct experience within the food & beverage, grocery, or CPG distribution industries is mandatory. Deep familiarity with the nuances of cold chain logistics, temperature-controlled transportation, and food safety regulations is essential.
Leadership
Proven track record of leading large, multi-site teams (100+ employees) and managing significant P&L responsibilities (over $100M).
Education
Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field is required.
Technical Skills
Advanced proficiency with Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), and network modeling software. Strong analytical skills and experience with data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI).
Strategic & Financial Acumen
Demonstrated ability to develop and execute long-range strategic plans, coupled with strong financial management, budgeting, and contract negotiation skills.
Preferred Qualifications
- An MBA or a Master’s degree in Supply Chain Management or a related discipline is highly preferred.
- Professional certifications such as Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) or Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution (CLTD) are a strong plus.
- Experience managing both a large private/dedicated fleet and a complex network of 3PLs and common carriers.
- Experience in a high-growth, private equity-backed, or transformative business environment.
- Verifiable track record of driving significant cost savings and service level improvements through process re-engineering and technology implementation.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top-tier executive talent and offers a highly competitive and comprehensive compensation and benefits package, including:
Competitive Executive Compensation
A highly competitive base salary and an attractive annual executive bonus program based on company and individual performance.
Long-Term Incentives
Meaningful equity participation or long-term incentive plan (LTIP) that aligns your success with the long-term growth of the company.
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
A full suite of benefits including premium medical, dental, and vision insurance for you and your dependents.
Retirement Planning
A 401(k) retirement plan with a generous company match.
Generous Paid Time Off
A competitive paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick days, and paid holidays.
Relocation Assistance
A comprehensive relocation package is available for the successful candidate and their family.
Professional Development
A commitment to your ongoing growth with support for executive coaching, industry conferences, and continuing education.
How to Apply
JRG Partners is proud to represent this confidential search. We are seeking a leader who can not only manage the present but also build the future of our client’s logistics operations. If you possess the requisite experience, strategic vision, and leadership qualities, we encourage you to apply.
To express your interest, please submit your resume and a compelling cover letter outlining your qualifications and accomplishments as they relate to this unique opportunity. All applications will be handled with the strictest confidence.
To learn more about our dedicated focus in this area, you can explore our expertise in Supply Chain & Logistics recruitment.
