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 the North East
Covering Northumberland, Tyne and Wear, Teeside and County Durham, the North East includes the cities of Durham, Sunderland and Newcastle upon Tyne, as well as other communities like Gateshead, Middlesbrough and Darlington.
In the 18th, 19th and early 20th centuries, the area's economy mainly relied on shipbuilding, heavy industry, coal mining and manufacturing. However, most of these faced significant decline after the second world war.
The region's economy is now mainly based in the service sector, and it is also known for its retail, art and culture. A number of tech companies are located in the North East, as well as businesses based in the petrochemical and steel industries.
What's more, the region is home to a significant amount of scientific research, particularly at the Centre for Life. This facility in Newcastle includes exhibition space for tourists, as well as a number of working laboratories that are used by biotechnology companies and medical clinics.
For those seeking Head of Distribution roles, just some of the companies that have headquarters or manufacturing facilities in the North East include Santander, Sage Group, Virgin Money, Tetley Tea, McCoy's Crisps, Greggs the Bakers, Nestle and Coca Cola.
In addition, there's BAE Systems, which manufactures military tanks, while Siemens produces steam turbines and Nissan operates the largest car factory in the UK.
Popular locations
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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