Head of Distribution

Overview

The role involves leading and growing the Distribution Business Vertical at Parker Connect, focusing on customer acquisition, operational setup, profitability, and expansion into various industry sectors such as FMCG, Retail, Healthcare, Automotive, Electronics, Industrial, E-commerce, and Food & Beverage.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement the comprehensive strategy for the Distribution Business Vertical.
• Drive business growth by creating operations capability, acquiring customers, and ensuring profitability.
• Identify and secure new business opportunities across multiple sectors.
• Build and sustain long-lasting relationships with key clients and decision-makers.
• Lead presentations, negotiations, RFQs, tenders, and contracts.
• Meet revenue, gross profit, and EBITDA targets.
• Create value-added logistics services and promote cross-selling with other company divisions like Freight Forwarding and Warehousing.
• Formulate annual business plans, budgets, and strategies to grow the vertical.
• Maintain a robust sales pipeline and convert leads efficiently.
• Observe market dynamics, competitor behavior, and emerging business opportunities to stay competitive.
• Establish competitive pricing to maximize profit while retaining market attractiveness.
• Forge strategic partnerships with manufacturers and distributors.
• Design scalable distribution operations for the UAE and GCC regions.
• Develop SOPs, KPIs, and standards for operational excellence.
• Ensure high-quality service, timely delivery, and customer satisfaction.
• Collaborate with Warehouse, Transport, Procurement, and Customer Service teams for integrated solutions.
• Enhance operational efficiency and reduce costs with continuous improvements and technology implementations.
• Recruit, lead, and mentor a skilled Distribution Sales and Operations team, fostering a culture of accountability and improvement.
• Set and monitor team KPIs and conduct regular performance reviews.
• Prepare budgets and forecasts, monitor financial metrics, and ensure healthy accounts receivable.
• Provide monthly operational reports and strategic insights to management.
• Maintain strong customer retention and address escalations effectively.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, health and safety standards, regulations, and contractual obligations.
• Promote best practices throughout the distribution operations.

Required Knowledge and Skills

• Strong commercial insight with a track record in building profitable business units.
• In-depth expertise in distribution, warehousing, transportation, and contract logistics.
• Sound understanding of supply chain operations and client needs.
• Excellent negotiation and relationship-building skills.
• Competence in devising and executing business strategies.
• Robust financial analysis and leadership capabilities.
• Proficient presentation and communication skills.
• Adept at managing multiple concurrent projects.
• Entrepreneurial and results-driven mindset with high accountability.

Educational Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, or related fields.
• MBA or equivalent higher education preferred.
• Between 12 and 15 years of experience in Distribution, Contract Logistics, or Supply Chain Management.
• At least 7 years in senior leadership roles.
• Proven success expanding or establishing Distribution or Contract Logistics businesses.
• Experience securing major distribution contracts and managing P&L, commercial strategies, and operations delivery.
• Strong professional relationships within the UAE logistics and distribution industry is advantageous.