Distribution Manager - Tonawanda

Evonik•Tonawanda, NY

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Distribution Manager is responsible for ensuring timely, accurate, and safe shipment of products from the Tonawanda plant. This role oversees coordinators and warehouse operators, manages shipping and documentation processes, and collaborates closely with supply chain, manufacturing, customer service, and sales teams. The position also holds day-to-day decision-making authority for distribution and warehouse operations, with a strong focus on safety, compliance, and operational efficiency.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management or a related field preferred, or equivalent experience.
Minimum 7 years of supply chain experience, including at least 5 years in the chemical industry preferred.
Strong technical proficiency with systems and tools such as Excel, SAP, and PowerPoint.
Demonstrated ability to work independently with strong initiative and minimal supervision.
Proven collaboration and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively across all organizational levels, both locally and globally.
Ability to challenge existing processes, communicate improvements clearly (written and verbal), and drive change within the supply chain.
Strong multitasking, planning, and problem-solving skills, including the ability to anticipate issues and minimize customer delivery impacts.
Experience managing multiple transportation modes (rail, truck, and ocean) and handling complex logistics environments.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management or a related field preferred
at least 5 years in the chemical industry preferred
Experience in a unionized environment is strongly preferred

Responsibilities

Coordinate and schedule resources to execute shipments, ensuring alignment between production plans and customer requirements while proactively escalating inventory risks with manufacturing.
Oversee day-to-day warehouse and distribution operations, leading teams to optimize deployment of personnel, product, and equipment while delivering strong customer experience.
Manage logistics and supply chain issues, including conducting root cause investigations and implementing corrective actions to prevent delivery disruptions.
Optimize finished goods inventory and collaborate with teams to forecast volumes, plan routes, and determine equipment and service needs.
Support and manage third-party carriers, equipment providers, and maintenance vendors to ensure operational continuity and efficiency.
Ensure all transportation equipment (rail and truck) meets regulatory standards, remains well-maintained, and has up-to-date certifications.
Drive safety and compliance by enforcing applicable laws and corporate standards (e.g., Responsible Care, ISO, DOT, FRA), developing policies, maintaining safe work conditions, and preparing emergency response plans.
Lead continuous improvement initiatives and special projects, support SAP (R11) usage, ensure required employee training (e.g., DOT), and facilitate audits and inspections.