Distribution Manager Job Description
Introduction
Job descriptions contained herein are representative of the most common business structures and their most common positions. The responsibilities contained within each description can be retained or delegated to lower level positions based on company needs. This would be done as compared to individual employee experience and abilities. Most likely, a brand new company would not include all the management levels contained herein. The company would instead assign multiple management and even lower responsibilities to the positions established, pending growth. The intent here is to provide scalable options for small businesses.
Distribution Manager Job Description
Position Summary
The Distribution Manager oversees a location that receives, stores, and distributes products to customers or other business locations. This role leads employees, maintains accurate inventory, and ensures orders are filled safely, correctly, and on time.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage daily receiving, storage, order fulfillment, and distribution activities.
- Hire, train, schedule, coach, and evaluate store employees.
- Monitor inventory levels, conduct counts, and resolve discrepancies.
- Coordinate deliveries, pickups, and transfers with suppliers, drivers, and other locations.
- Ensure orders are accurate and ready by their required deadlines.
- Maintain an organized store, stockroom, and loading area.
- Address customer or location requests and resolve service issues.
- Monitor staffing, operating expenses, product damage, and losses.
- Ensure employees follow company policies and safety procedures.
- Report inventory, service, and operating results to leadership.
Qualifications
- Experience in distribution, warehouse, inventory, or store operations.
- Experience supervising employees and coordinating daily work.
- Strong organizational, customer service, and problem-solving skills.
- Familiarity with inventory systems and order fulfillment procedures.
- Ability to manage deadlines and respond to changing priorities.
Success in This Role
The Distribution Manager succeeds when inventory is accurate, orders reach their destinations on time, employees work safely, and customers and other locations receive dependable service.