Role Overview for VP, Logistics & Transportation with a Major Retailer – Los Angeles, CA
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a premier, multi-billion dollar retailer in their search for a transformative Vice President of Logistics & Transportation. Based in the vibrant heart of Los Angeles, CA, this is a career-defining opportunity to join a dynamic executive team and steer the logistical future of a household name. Our client is a leader in their market segment, known for their commitment to quality, customer experience, and innovation. As they continue to expand their omnichannel footprint, they are seeking a strategic, results-oriented leader to architect and execute a world-class logistics and transportation strategy that is both resilient and highly efficient.
As the VP of Logistics & Transportation, you will be the principal architect of the company’s entire physical distribution network. You will hold ultimate responsibility for the seamless, cost-effective, and timely movement of goods from global sourcing points to distribution centers, and ultimately into the hands of our loyal customers, whether through our retail stores or e-commerce channels.
This role requires a visionary leader who can balance long-term strategic planning with rigorous day-to-day operational execution. You will oversee a significant annual budget and lead a large, geographically dispersed team of dedicated professionals. Your leadership will directly impact the company’s profitability, customer satisfaction, and competitive positioning in a rapidly evolving retail landscape. This is more than a management role; it is a chance to build a lasting legacy by creating a supply chain that is a true strategic advantage for the business.
Key Responsibilities of VP, Logistics & Transportation with a Major Retailer – Los Angeles, CA
Strategic Network Leadership
Develop, articulate, and implement a comprehensive long-term strategy for the company’s logistics and transportation network. This includes network design, capacity planning, and the continuous evaluation of infrastructure to support business growth and omnichannel fulfillment objectives.
Transportation Management & Optimization
Direct all aspects of domestic and international transportation, including ocean freight, air freight, drayage, intermodal, truckload (TL), less-than-truckload (LTL), and final-mile/parcel delivery. Lead carrier sourcing, negotiation, and relationship management to secure favorable rates and ensure high levels of service performance.
Budget & Financial Acumen
Assume full P&L responsibility for the logistics and transportation department, including the development and management of a multi-hundred-million-dollar annual budget. Drive a culture of cost consciousness, identifying and executing initiatives to reduce transportation spend, improve efficiency, and optimize the total cost of ownership.
Last-Mile & E-commerce Fulfillment
Architect and oversee a best-in-class last-mile delivery strategy that meets and exceeds customer expectations for speed, reliability, and cost. Collaborate with e-commerce teams to ensure fulfillment operations can scale effectively and support new delivery service offerings.
Distribution & Warehouse Operations Oversight
Provide senior leadership and strategic direction for the company’s network of distribution centers. Partner closely with warehouse operations leaders to ensure inventory accuracy, efficient order processing, and the optimization of labor, space, and equipment.
Technology & Innovation
Champion the selection, implementation, and continuous improvement of logistics technology systems, including Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), and visibility platforms. Leverage data analytics and business intelligence to drive informed decision-making and achieve real-time, end-to-end supply chain visibility.
Team Leadership & Talent Development
Lead, mentor, and inspire a high-performing team of logistics professionals. Foster a collaborative, innovative, and results-driven culture. Develop talent pipelines and succession plans to ensure the long-term health of the organization.
Performance Management & KPIs
Establish, monitor, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) across all facets of logistics, including on-time delivery, cost per unit, carrier performance, transit times, and budget variance. Use data to drive a continuous improvement mindset throughout the team.
Regulatory Compliance & Risk Management
Ensure the company’s logistics operations are in full compliance with all local, state, federal, and international transportation regulations (e.g., DOT, C-TPAT). Proactively identify and mitigate potential risks within the supply chain.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Serve as a key strategic partner to other executive leaders in Merchandising, Planning, Store Operations, E-commerce, Finance, and IT. Ensure the logistics strategy is fully aligned with and supports the broader objectives of the company.
Requirements for the VP, Logistics & Transportation with a Major Retailer – Los Angeles, CA
Educational Background
A Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field is required. An MBA or other advanced degree is highly preferred.
Executive Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in supply chain and logistics, with at least 7 years in a senior leadership capacity (Director level or above) overseeing a large-scale, complex logistics function.
Industry Expertise
Deep experience within a high-volume, fast-paced omnichannel retail, e-commerce, or consumer goods environment is essential. Must have a proven track record of managing both B2B and B2C distribution channels.
Transportation Mastery
Demonstrable expertise across all major transportation modes, with a strong background in carrier contract negotiation, procurement, and performance management on a national and international scale.
Financial & Analytical Skills
Proven experience managing P&L and large, complex budgets (ideally in excess of $100M annually). Exceptional analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex data and translate it into actionable business strategy.
Leadership & Influence
A proven, hands-on leader with the ability to build, motivate, and develop high-performing teams. Must possess exceptional communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels of the organization, including the C-suite.
Technical Proficiency
In-depth knowledge of modern logistics technologies, including advanced TMS and WMS platforms. Experience leading or sponsoring major system implementations is a significant plus.
Strategic Mindset
Ability to think strategically and long-term, while also being able to dive into the details and drive operational execution. A history of developing and implementing successful, transformative logistics initiatives is required.
Location
The candidate must be based in or willing to relocate to the greater Los Angeles, California area.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to investing in their people and offers a highly competitive and comprehensive executive compensation package, including:
Competitive Base Salary
An attractive six-figure base salary commensurate with experience.
Executive Bonus Program
A lucrative annual performance-based bonus plan.
Long-Term Incentives
Meaningful equity or long-term incentive plan (LTIP) participation.
Comprehensive Health Coverage
Premium medical, dental, and vision insurance for you and your eligible dependents.
Retirement Savings
A 401(k) plan with a generous company matching contribution.
Generous Paid Time Off
A flexible and substantial paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick leave, and paid holidays.
Relocation Assistance
A comprehensive relocation package for qualified candidates.
Employee Discount
Significant discounts on the company’s fantastic products.
Professional Development
Support for continued learning, industry conferences, and executive coaching.
Wellness Programs
Access to wellness resources and employee assistance programs.
How to Apply
JRG Partners has been exclusively retained for this critical executive search. We are seeking a logistics leader who is ready to make a significant impact on a thriving retail business. If you are a strategic, innovative, and results-driven professional who meets the qualifications outlined above, we encourage you to apply.
To be considered for this confidential opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience. For more information about our expertise in this area, please visit our practice page for supply chain and logistics executive search. We look forward to reviewing your application. Our client is an equal opportunity employer.
