Executive Director, Local Food Distributor

The Common Market•Atlanta, GA

23h•$130,000•Onsite

About The Position

Build a Regional Food System That Actually Works The Common Market is not a typical nonprofit. We are a mission-driven food distributor — a social enterprise that moves millions of dollars of regionally sourced food from family farms to schools, hospitals, and other institutions. Our work sits at the intersection of supply chain, public health, and regional economic development. Across four regions, we’ve built a $250M+ platform connecting over 100 farmers to 500+ institutions. Now, we’re entering our next phase: strengthening our core wholesale business, expanding into new markets, and building the operational systems to scale. We are seeking an Executive Director for our Southeast Chapter — a leader who can run and grow a complex, mission-driven business in one of our most important regions. Why This Role, Why Now The Southeast region is at an inflection point. Demand from schools, hospitals, and institutions is growing Our supply base is strong but needs deeper alignment and planning We are shifting from grant-supported programs to a more durable wholesale model We are investing in stronger systems, clearer accountability, and operational excellence This is not a role where you inherit a finished machine. This is a role for someone who wants to build, lead, and improve a regional business that delivers both revenue and impact — and be part of shaping what The Common Market becomes nationally. The Role As Executive Director, you are the senior leader accountable for the full performance of the Southeast Chapter — leading operations, revenue, and team execution across a complex regional business. You are accountable for performance, people, and impact: Running a multi-million dollar regional operation Leading a cross-functional team (operations, sales, customer service) Owning revenue and financial outcomes Ensuring safe, efficient, high-quality food distribution Building strong relationships with farmers and institutional customers On any given day, you might: Walk the warehouse floor to troubleshoot a fulfillment issue Meet with a hospital system to expand a contract Review KPIs with your team and drive accountability Partner with national leadership on strategy and systems Represent The Common Market in the regional food system You are both operator and leader — equally focused on execution and direction. What Success Looks Like (First 12–24 Months) Consistent, reliable warehouse and delivery operations with strong food safety performance Clear ownership of revenue targets and measurable growth in institutional sales A high-functioning, accountable team with strong frontline leadership Improved alignment between supply (farmers) and demand (customers) Strong relationships with key anchor institutions across the region Meaningful contribution to national systems and strategy Who You Are You are a mission-driven business leader — not just an advocate, and not just an operator.

Requirements

7–10+ years of leadership in operations, supply chain, food distribution, or similar environments
Experience managing a P&L and delivering measurable performance outcomes
Track record of leading teams of 10+ staff, including frontline operations
Strong communication and relationship-building skills
Deep alignment with The Common Market’s mission and values

Nice To Haves

Experience with CRM/ERP systems (e.g., Salesforce, inventory systems) a plus

Responsibilities

Own the Southeast Chapter’s performance across operations, sales, and financial outcomes
Set clear goals and ensure consistent execution
Oversee warehouse, logistics, and delivery systems
Ensure strong food safety, compliance, and operational discipline
Drive continuous improvement in accuracy, efficiency, and safety
Expand institutional sales (schools, hospitals, universities)
Support and coach the sales team to meet targets
Build long-term customer relationships
Deepen relationships with regional farmers and producers
Improve alignment between production and demand
Build a culture of accountability, learning, and respect
Support frontline managers and develop emerging leaders
Serve as a visible leader in the Southeast food system
Engage funders, policymakers, and partners