director, Distribution Operations

Starbucks Coffee Company•Seattle, WA

1d•$146,400 - $276,000•Onsite

About The Position

This job contributes to Starbucks success by providing leadership, strategic planning, distribution expertise, coaching/developing skills, and management of strategic relationships to enable the distribution team to develop innovative, cost-effective, scalable distribution systems and processes that enable global growth and generate store/customer level value. Models and acts in accordance with Starbucks guiding principles. This is an in-market role and may be based within the Central South, Midwest, or West Coast regions of the United States.

Requirements

10+ years of experience in distribution operations, including facility layout, process design, and material handling equipment (MHE) implementation.
10+ years of experience developing and executing supply chain, logistics, or distribution strategies that drive operational performance and business growth.
Significant experience managing third-party logistics (3PL) providers, including contract negotiations, budgeting, performance management, and service optimization.
Experience leading warehouse management system (WMS), inventory management system, or large-scale operational technology implementations.
Deep understanding of food service, consumer packaged goods (CPG), food manufacturing, or related distribution and transportation operations.
Proven success leading complex distribution networks across multiple facilities, regions, or operating environments.
Strong business acumen with the ability to apply financial, operational, and strategic principles to decision-making, project execution, and change management initiatives.
Demonstrated ability to lead and develop high-performing teams while driving accountability, engagement, and results.
Advanced project and program management skills, including KPI development, performance reporting, financial analysis, and continuous improvement methodologies.

Nice To Haves

Ability to travel approximately 50%.

Responsibilities

Lead the strategy, design, and execution of Starbucks' distribution network.
Optimizing logistics operations, driving network growth and capacity planning, managing third-party logistics partnerships, and leading cross-functional initiatives that support operational excellence and business growth.
Lead and develop a high-performing team by creating clear goals, accountability, and a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement.
Communicate priorities and expectations that drive operational excellence and business results.
Champion company initiatives, policies, and best practices while fostering confidence and engagement across teams.
Develop and execute strategic and operational plans that align distribution capabilities with business objectives.
Monitor performance metrics and drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance service, efficiency, and cost effectiveness.
Lead organizational readiness and change management efforts related to new processes, systems, and operating models.
Develop and manage the annual operating budget and oversee relationships with third-party logistics providers.
Lead the design, implementation, and continuous improvement of distribution processes and systems across the network.
Develop distribution network strategies that support growth, capacity planning, site selection, and long-term operational scalability.
Lead cross-functional initiatives that improve supply chain performance and enable business growth.
Direct RFP processes, bid evaluations, and contract negotiations with logistics partners.
Build and maintain strategic partnerships with logistics service providers to ensure service, quality, and business objectives are achieved.
Inspire, coach, and develop leaders and team members to achieve business and organizational goals.
Conduct performance reviews and support career development planning.
Ensure compliance with legal, regulatory, and operational requirements.
Make effective talent, staffing, and succession planning decisions.
Foster an inclusive, high-performing culture focused on safety, accountability, and results.

Benefits

medical, dental, vision, basic and supplemental life insurance, and other voluntary insurance benefits.
short-term and long-term disability
paid parental leave
family expansion reimbursement
paid vacation from date of hire
sick time (accrued at 1 hour for every 25 hours worked)
eight paid holidays
two personal days per year
401(k) retirement plan with employer match
discounted company stock program (S.I.P.)
Starbucks equity program (Bean Stock)
incentivized emergency savings
financial well-being tools
100% upfront tuition coverage for a first-time bachelor’s degree through Arizona State University’s online program via the Starbucks College Achievement Plan
student loan management resources
access to other educational opportunities
backup care
DACA reimbursement