For more than 115 years, Ferrara has created sugar confections that enable moments of sweetness, celebration, and connection for candy lovers of all generations. Today, the company is the #1 sugar confectioner in the United States. Ferrara boasts a passionate team of nearly 9,000 employees creating and delivering hundreds of products sold under 20 popular brands like Brach's, NERDS, SweeTARTS, Laffy Taffy, and Trolli to more than 66 million U.S. households annually and popular Dori snacking products under brands such as Dori, Gomets, Pettiz, and Yogurte 100 in Brazil. Additionally, Jelly Belly, known world-wide for its confections, was acquired in November of 2023.
Director, DistributionJob Location: DeKalbOur flagship distribution center in DeKalb. On-site 5 days a week.
Want to make an impact?The Director of Distribution at our DeKalb, IL location is the primary voice of the customer leader in our flagship distribution center servicing both Ferrara and Ferrero. This role is crucial in ensuring that the distribution operations meet the highest standards of quality, service, and cost-efficiency, thereby enhancing customer satisfaction and operational excellence.
Ways you will make a differenceTo perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.
Drive Strategic Initiatives: Lead strategic initiatives aimed at improving the quality, service, and cost of services provided to customers. Develop and implement strategies that align with the company's overall objectives and customer expectations.Formulate KPIs: Develop and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) that drive success in the distribution center. Ensure that these KPIs are aligned with business goals and provide actionable insights for continuous improvement.Negotiate and Collaborate with Third Parties: Negotiate contracts and collaborate with third-party logistics providers and other external partners. Ensure that these relationships are managed effectively to optimize performance and cost.Ensure Operational Excellence: Oversee daily operations to ensure that the highest standards of operational excellence are being executed. Implement best practices and continuous improvement methodologies to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.Manage Vendors: Oversee vendor relationships and ensure that they meet the company's quality and service standards. Coordinate with vendors to resolve any issues and optimize supply chain performance.Capital Investments: Assist in the planning and execution of capital investments in the distribution center. Ensure that investments are aligned with strategic goals and provide a good return on investment.Skills that will make you successfulThe list below represents the knowledge, skills, and/or abilities necessary to fulfill the expectations associated with the position:
Leadership Skills: Strong leadership abilities with a proven track record of leading and developing high-performing teams.Negotiation Skills: Excellent negotiation skills with the ability to manage contracts and relationships with third-party providers and vendors.Cross-Functional Supply Chain Knowledge: In-depth knowledge of the entire supply chain, including logistics, inventory management, and distribution.Analytics: Strong analytical skills with the ability to analyze data and make informed decisions.Budget and Cost Management: Ability to understand and manage budgets and costs effectively.ERP and WMS Proficiency: Proficiency in SAP and Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) for managing distribution operations.Lean Six Sigma Knowledge: Understanding of Lean and Six Sigma methodologies for continuous improvement and operational excellence.Team Building Skills: Strong team-building skills with the ability to foster a collaborative and positive work environment.Indirect Leadership Skills: Ability to lead indirectly by influencing and motivating team members and stakeholders across the organization.Experiences that will support your successEducational Qualifications: A bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Operations Management, or a related field is preferred.Relevant Work Experience: A minimum of 10 years of experience in distribution, logistics, or supply chain management, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.Certifications: Certification in Lean Six Sigma, APICS Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP), or other relevant certifications is preferred.EQUAL OPPORTUNITYWe are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. In order to provide equal employment and advancement opportunities to all qualified applicants and employees, employment decisions and opportunities at Ferrara will be based on merit, qualifications, and abilities, without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, marital or civil union status, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, age, military or veteran status, disability, handicap, genetic information, pregnancy (childbirth or related medical condition), or on any other basis prohibited by law. This policy governs all aspects of employment, including selection, job assignment, compensation, discipline, termination, and access to benefits and training.
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