Head of Distribution jobs
Getting products out of the warehouse and into the possession of clients is a complex enough task with a small operation, but in a large firm it’s a task with ever more intertwined elements that make its management a highly skilled task. One of the people in charge of overseeing this side of business will be the head of distribution.
Distribution will in many cases mean not only sending goods out to customers or internal departments based remotely, but also ordering them from other locations. Keeping abreast of the state of play within the department will the head of distribution’s main day-to-day task, but controlling the budget will also be key. There is always a less expensive way of doing something, but it usually means sacrificing quality or speed. The head of distribution’s success or failure will be directly linked to his or her ability to not only stay within the budget set from the general management, but also to constantly seek out efficiencies in the distribution network.
This will also mean that forecasting skills will be valued, as distribution is something that is affected by seasons, certain times and days of the week and special events. The head of distribution who can find efficiencies 24/7 will be highly valued.
The skills required
Great negotiating and communication skills will set the head of distribution off on the best footing. Savings can be made by careful consideration of the facts surrounding any distribution activity, but if customers do not like the results, any financial savings will be short-term in nature.
People management skills are essential, too, as it is those working below the head of distribution who will have to put into action the new ways of doing things that should bring the efficiencies. In some companies, the distribution head will be given a considerable amount of freedom to operate and make changes as he or she sees fit, and they will be judged on their results, so a responsible personality will be even more essential.
Good experience in management of large budgets and an analytical approach to problem solving will be key to the head of distribution’s success.
Head of Distribution Jobs in Cleveland
Situated in the north-east of England, Cleveland is a region that has been long known for its industrial and manufacturing capabilities, and it offers a range of opportunities for those seeking Head of Distribution positions.
During the 18th century, ironwork was a major part of the local economy and the ironstone used for blast furnaces on the River Tees was procured from the Cleveland Hills.
These days, Cleveland is not an officially recognised region. In the mid-1990s, the county was broken up into four unitary authorities: Hartlepool, Stockton-on-Tees, Middlesbrough and Redcar and Cleveland.
However, many people from the region still identify themselves as being from Cleveland and bodies like the Cleveland Police and Cleveland Fire Brigade carry the name today.
Much of the area is undergoing significant regeneration, and these days, the economy is mainly based in retail, technology and the service sector.
However, a few big-names in heavy industry still call the region home. For example, there's the Cleveland Bridge and Engineering Company, Teeside Steelworks and Dorman Long, which provided the steel for the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Tyne Bridge and the Auckland Harbour Bridge.
What's more, Teesport is the country's third largest port and handles around 56 million tonnes of cargo every year, with facilities including container quays and RORO ramps.
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Cast UK’s logistics opportunities
With jobs in every county and every city of the UK, Cast UK are well placed to find you work in logistics, procurement or supply chain wherever you are in the country, now or in the future. If you’re moving house, check out the positions available in your new area; and if you’re simply looking for a career advancement, we’ve always got jobs and clients who are looking for your skills.
Our founder members and consultants are all from the backgrounds we deal exclusively with, and have great knowledge of what employers and candidates are looking for. Employers often ask us to look for candidates because they are confident that we’ll help them find the most appropriate people.
We’d love to hear from you if you’re looking for a job in logistics. Once we have your details, we’ll be able to start matching you with positions as soon as they arise.
To find out more about how Cast UK can help you recruit a Head of Distribution for your business or find you a job as a Head of Distribution then contact one of our consultant team on 0333 121 3345.
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