Distribution Manager

Butterball•Huntsville, AR

About The Position

The Distribution Manager oversees the team responsible for shipping and distribution, ensuring work is performed safely, efficiently, and effectively and that product is correctly loaded and shipped within designated time frames. The role develops and implements standards and policies that support a safety culture and continuous improvement, including use of Butterball Operation System Solutions (BOSS), and sets and monitors key performance indicators (KPIs). It is accountable for safety, regulatory compliance, and the upkeep of shipping and distribution areas. The position manages individual contributors and/or supervisors, providing coaching and guidance while overseeing hiring, terminations, performance management, goal setting, team development, and scheduling. It contributes to systems, policies, procedures, and strategic planning; leads distribution improvement initiatives; and ensures resources are used effectively to meet department goals. The manager directs distribution programs and processes, oversees SOPs and audits, and partners across functions to support safe product flow, cooler cleanouts, inventory, FIFO, housekeeping, and general upkeep. The role also investigates incidents and complaints, resolves compliance issues, reviews metrics, identifies efficiency and quality gaps, facilitates meetings, and advises the broader leadership team. Work occurs primarily in a manufacturing plant environment with varying conditions, including cold, wet, and warm areas and exposure to chemicals and other site conditions. Work is occasionally performed in climate-controlled offices. Personal protective equipment is required in manufacturing areas; noise may exceed 85 dBA and require hearing protection. Occasional travel may be required. The position is designated safety-sensitive under Butterball’s drug and alcohol screening and testing policy.

Requirements

High school diploma, GED, or equivalent.
At least 6 years of relevant experience, or the knowledge, skills, and abilities to succeed in the role.
At least 2 years of leadership experience, or the knowledge, skills, and abilities to succeed in the role.
Strong knowledge of shipping, storage, warehousing, HACCP, and/or USDA policies.
Strong understanding of current distribution regulations, safety standards, and best practices.
Strong leadership skills, including the ability to develop, mentor, coach, support, and motivate a team.
Strong resource management, delegation, and prioritization skills.
Strong communication, presentation, and organizational skills.
Ability to identify and implement process improvements.
Project management skills and ability to impact results.
Proficient technology skills and ability to learn and apply new technologies.
Ability to create and track KPIs.
Ability to meet the physical demands of the role, including regularly standing, sitting, talking, hearing, reaching, stooping, kneeling, using hands and fingers to operate a computer, telephone, and keyboard, and occasionally lifting up to 50–100 pounds.
Required vision abilities include close vision, distance vision, depth perception, color vision, and ability to adjust focus.
Ability to wear and work in personal protective equipment in manufacturing environments.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in a related field.

Responsibilities

Oversee shipping and distribution activities to ensure safe, efficient, and effective execution and correct, timely shipment of product.
Develop and implement standards and policies that promote safety and continuous improvement, including use of Butterball Operation System Solutions (BOSS).
Set key performance indicators (KPIs) and ensure successful execution; gather and review metrics and address efficiency and quality gaps.
Manage a team of individual contributors and/or supervisors, providing guidance, coaching, and support to meet department goals.
Oversee human resources activities, including hiring, terminations, performance management, goal setting, team member development, and scheduling.
Enforce and contribute to the development of systems, policies, and procedures, and participate in strategic planning for the function.
Implement continuous improvement initiatives for distribution processes and systems and use resources effectively to maximize efficiency and capacity.
Create and direct distribution programs, policies, plans, and processes to ensure compliance with internal standards, contractual obligations, and regulatory requirements.
Foster a safe work environment and oversee safety, compliance, and upkeep of shipping and distribution areas.
Oversee and evaluate department Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
Partner cross-functionally to ensure product flow and safety; oversee cooler cleanouts, inventory, FIFO, housekeeping, and general upkeep.
Oversee investigations, audits, and inspections and ensure compliance and resolution of issues.
Guide and facilitate department and facility meetings and provide consultation and advice to the broader leadership team.
Occasionally travel as required.