Vice President of Distribution Operations

Role Overview

The Vice President of Distribution Operations is a senior leadership role responsible for managing the comprehensive operations of the distribution network to guarantee efficient, consistent functioning aligned with business growth objectives. This position acts as a bridge between strategic planning and hands-on execution.

Core Responsibilities

• Develop and implement distribution operations strategies that define network configuration across regions, channels, and customer segments, ensuring alignment with sales targets, growth priorities, and service goals.
• Supervise daily operations involving distributors, warehouses, logistics partners, and field teams to maintain product availability, punctual deliveries, and uniform execution throughout the network.
• Optimize channel efficiency by establishing and refining operational processes, standards, and governance, addressing bottlenecks, improving coordination, and boosting productivity.
• Oversee retail and field execution by monitoring store activities including product placement, promotional events, and sell-through performance, ensuring adherence to brand guidelines and execution standards by distributors and field personnel.
• Manage the performance measurement and reporting system by tracking critical indicators such as sales, coverage, inventory levels, fill rates, stock turnover, and service quality; employing data insights to detect shortcomings and drive corrective initiatives.
• Collaborate closely with Sales, Supply Chain, Finance, Marketing, and Operations departments to align plans and execution, including coordination of launches, trade promotions, inventory management, and service fulfillment.
• Lead and develop distribution operations managers and regional teams by setting objectives, mentoring leadership, and fostering a culture of accountability and high performance.
• Cultivate and sustain strong partnerships with distributors and operational collaborators by setting clear expectations, reviewing performance metrics, ensuring policy compliance, and managing commercial terms.

Required Background

• Extensive experience of over 18 years in fields such as distribution, sales operations, channel operations, or general management with a focus on multi-region or national distribution networks.
• In-depth expertise in distributor management, retail execution, inventory control, and service operations.
• Exceptional analytical, financial acumen, and leadership capabilities.
• Minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, Operations, or related disciplines; possession of an advanced degree is advantageous.

Performance Indicators

• Growth in distribution sales.
• Coverage and product availability across various channels and regions.
• Inventory turnover rates and stock accuracy.
• Fill rates, timeliness of delivery, and overall service standards.
• Compliance with execution standards and distributor performance quality.