We use cookies. Find out more about it here. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our use of cookies.
#alert
Back to search results
Remote New

Director, Distribution Operations

Smithfield Foods
company vehicle
United States, Illinois
Apr 04, 2025

If you are currently employed at Smithfield, please log into Workday and submit your application through the Jobs Hub.

A great job-and a great future-awaits you at Smithfield Foods. We are an American food company with a leading position in packaged meats and fresh pork products. We're looking for motivated people who want to join our team and grow lasting and meaningful careers with us. Apply Now!

THE VALUE YOU'LL BRING:

The position summary states the general nature and purpose of the job. Overall accountabilities are defined in this section.

As the Director of Distribution Operations (DDO), you'll directly manage 4 DC's, driving the design and implementation of processes that ensure seamless product receipt and an exceptional customer experience. Your role will be pivotal in identifying and championing continuous improvement initiatives across product management, cost control, and problem-solving. With a strong track record in operations management, financial strategy, procurement, and project oversight, you'll shape the future of distribution by setting strategic direction, fostering talent, and leading transformative lean initiatives that optimize efficiency and drive long-term success.

WHAT YOU'LL DO:

The below statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. May perform other duties as assigned.

Operations Management & Efficiency

  • Optimizes Distribution Networks: Leads the efficient operation of cold storage distribution centers, to meet cost, service, and quality objectives, ensuring seamless operations across the entire supply chain.

  • Labor Management & Planning: Strategically manages labor to volume within and full P&L responsibility for 4 DC's and ~800 associates.

  • Minimizes Waste: Partners with product management and scheduling teams to strategically place products and implement effective inventory control processes, minimizing aged or miss-rotated inventory.

  • Safety: Creates and cultivates a culture of safety across all warehouse functions.

Strategic Planning & Leadership

  • Future-Focused Strategy: Develops forward-thinking strategic initiatives and provides top-tier recommendations to management on future distribution planning to stay ahead of industry trends and customer needs.

  • Policy & Procedure Development: Designs and implements cost-reducing policies and procedures across the supply chain that consistently exceed customer expectations while enhancing operational efficiency.

Procurement & Cost Management

  • Procurement Strategy: Takes the lead in procurement activities across various distribution categories, ensuring optimal cost control and alignment with organizational objectives.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

  • Collaborative Partnerships: Works closely with transportation, customer service, and other internal and external teams to maximize truck weights, prevent stock outages, and deliver a seamless customer experience.

WHAT WE'RE SEEKING:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals to perform the essential functions.

  • Bachelor's Degree from an accredited four-year College or University and 10+ years of related experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience, required.

  • 5+ Experience in a position of leadership to include team development and management, required.

  • Must have experience in multi-site distribution center management with P&L ownership.

  • Must have experience leading continuous improvement projects in manufacturing, maintenance, supply chain, distribution or engineering leadership role, preferred.

  • Demonstrated ability to coach and develop talent

  • Lean training is preferred.

  • Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

  • Demonstrated ability to influence the organization at the most senior levels.

  • Demonstrated financial acumen, strategic thinking, project leadership, and talent development.

  • Proven success leading complex commercial negotiations.

  • Background in SAP and WMS computer systems.

  • Ability to work well with others in fast paced, dynamic environment.

  • Ability to be respectful, approachable and team oriented while building strong working relationships and a positive work environment.

  • Travel within the regional DC's 75% of the time.

Relocation Package Available

Yes

Eligible for Company Vehicle

Yes

EEO Information

Smithfield is an equal opportunity employer committed to workplace diversity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, gender identity, protected veterans status, status as a disabled individual or any other protected group status or non-job characteristic as directed by law.

If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment selection process, please call us at 757-357-1595.

Applied = 0

(web-6468d597d4-w6ps7)