Distribution Manager

The Role

As Distribution Manager, you'll take ownership of all outbound logistics activities, managing relationships with external transport providers and building a best-in-class distribution operation capable of supporting ambitious growth plans.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Developing and implementing the company's distribution and transport strategy.
• Selecting, managing and developing relationships with third-party logistics (3PL) and transport partners.
• Driving service excellence through carrier performance management and KPI reporting.
• Negotiating transport contracts and identifying opportunities for cost reduction and efficiency improvements.
• Managing transport capacity planning to support seasonal peaks and business growth.
• Establishing distribution processes, controls and operating procedures from the ground up.
• Monitoring OTIF performance, customer service metrics and transport costs.
• Working collaboratively with Supply Chain, Operations, Customer Service and Commercial teams to align distribution plans with customer demand.
• Ensuring compliance with all relevant food industry, transport and health & safety regulations.
• Leading continuous improvement initiatives to optimise transport performance and customer experience.

About You

We're looking for a commercially minded logistics leader who enjoys creating structure within a growing business and can successfully build partnerships with external logistics providers.

You'll ideally bring:

• Proven experience in a Distribution Manager, Logistics Manager or Transport Manager position.
• Strong knowledge of UK transport operations and third-party logistics management.
• Experience managing outsourced transport networks within food.
• A track record of improving service, reducing costs and driving operational performance.
• Excellent supplier management and contract negotiation skills.
• Strong analytical capability with experience using KPIs and data to drive decisions.
• The ability to thrive in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial and evolving environment.

Why Join?

• Rare opportunity to create and shape an entire distribution function.
• Significant influence on the future direction of the business.
• Growing organisation with ambitious expansion plans.
• High levels of autonomy and visibility across the business.
• Opportunity to build long-term strategic relationships with logistics partners.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.

This role would suit an ambitious logistics professional looking for the challenge of building a distribution operation from the ground up while developing a high-performing 3PL transport network that supports a rapidly growing food business.