Executive Director - Southeast Chapter, Regional Food Distribution

About The Common Market

The Common Market operates as a mission-driven food distributor and social enterprise, facilitating the movement of regionally sourced food from family farms to institutions such as schools and hospitals. Across four regions, it maintains a platform worth over $250 million that connects more than 100 farmers to upwards of 500 institutional customers, positioned at the intersection of supply chain management, public health, and regional economic development.

Role Overview

We are seeking a dedicated Executive Director to lead and expand the Southeast Chapter, overseeing a complex regional operation that combines business growth with impactful mission delivery. This leadership role demands ownership of operational performance, strategic revenue growth, team management, and fostering impactful relationships with farmers and institutional clients.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage all aspects of the Southeast Chapter including operations, sales, and financial performance.
• Lead and develop a cross-functional team covering operations, sales, and customer service.
• Ensure adherence to food safety regulations and maintain high-quality warehouse and delivery processes.
• Expand institutional sales relationships, particularly with schools, hospitals, and universities.
• Deepen collaboration with regional farmers and producers to optimize supply alignment with customer demand.
• Serve as a visible ambassador within the Southeast food system, representing the organization to funders, policymakers and partners.
• Engage actively in daily operations, troubleshooting, and strategic planning alongside national leadership.

Success Indicators (First 12-24 Months)

• Stable, efficient warehouse and delivery systems with exemplary food safety record.
• Achievement and growth of revenue goals alongside improved institutional sales.
• A well-functioning, accountable team possessing strong frontline management.
• Enhanced cohesion between supply and demand among farmers and customers.
• Established strong ties with key regional anchor institutions.
• Active and meaningful contributions to the national organizational strategy.

Candidate Profile

• 7-10+ years of leadership experience in operations, supply chain management, food distribution, or similar sectors.
• Proven ability managing P&L, driving revenue, and controlling costs.
• Experienced leader of teams of 10 or more, including frontline staff.
• Exceptional skills in communication and building trust with diverse stakeholders including farmers, institutional customers, and community partners.
• Familiarity with CRM and ERP systems such as Salesforce and inventory management tools is advantageous.
• Strong alignment with the organization's mission focused on regional food systems, equity, and economic opportunity.

Work Location and Travel

• Position headquartered in Atlanta, GA with consistent onsite presence at the warehouse.
• Requires approximately 20-30% regional travel within the Southeast.

Compensation and Benefits

• Annual salary of $130,000.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
• SIMPLE IRA retirement plan with full employer match.
• Employer-paid life and disability insurance.
• Paid time off, including holidays.
• Opportunities for professional development.

Additional Information

This role is a hands-on, operationally focused leadership position within a commercial mission-driven business, requiring daily involvement in operations and accountability for financial and performance targets. Candidates seeking a traditional nonprofit Executive Director position or primarily strategy-focused roles are discouraged from applying. The successful candidate must possess the ability to step in actively to manage operations and build a scalable, sustainable regional food distribution business.