Head of Distribution

Greater Manchester | Up to £80,000 DOE + Bonus + Benefits

Our client is a leading FMCG manufacturer and distributor seeking an experienced Head of Distribution to oversee and optimise its end-to-end distribution operation. This is a senior leadership opportunity within a fast-paced, high-volume environment, responsible for warehousing, transport, inventory management, customer service delivery and operational excellence across the network.

Reporting to the Supply Chain Director, you will lead a large operational team, driving performance, efficiency, service levels and continuous improvement to support ongoing business growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead all distribution activities, including warehouse operations, transport, inventory and outbound logistics
• Develop and implement distribution strategies aligned with business objectives
• Drive operational excellence, productivity improvements and cost efficiencies
• Ensure OTIF, customer service and operational KPI targets are consistently achieved
• Manage and develop a large team through a structure of managers and supervisors
• Oversee resource planning and capacity management to support demand fluctuations
• Manage operational budgets and identify opportunities to optimise costs
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives across processes, systems and people
• Utilise operational data and reporting to support decision-making and performance management
• Work collaboratively with Supply Chain, Production, Procurement, Customer Service and Commercial teams
• Ensure compliance with all Health & Safety, quality and regulatory requirements
• Support business transformation, automation and technology-led improvement projects
• Promote a culture of accountability, engagement and high performance

About You

• Proven senior leadership experience within FMCG, manufacturing, retail or high-volume logistics operations
• Strong background managing both warehouse and transport functions
• Experience leading large, multi-site or complex distribution operations
• Demonstrable success delivering operational improvements and cost-saving initiatives
• Strong people leadership, coaching and stakeholder management skills
• Excellent commercial, analytical and problem-solving capabilities
• Experience managing significant operational budgets and performance metrics
• Strong understanding of Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) and logistics technologies

Package

• Salary up to £80,000 DOE
• Performance-related bonus
• Private healthcare
• Enhanced pension
• Generous holiday entitlement
• Excellent career progression opportunities

This is an excellent opportunity for a high-calibre distribution professional to make a significant impact within a market-leading FMCG business, driving operational performance and shaping the future of a critical distribution function.

If you are keen to find out more, please contact Adam Norris at Reed or apply now.