National Distribution Director

A commercially driven logistics leader is required to oversee a national transport function operating across multiple UK sites.

This pivotal position carries full P&L accountability for the logistics division, leading a network of Transport Managers to deliver safe, compliant, and cost?effective operations.

The role combines strategic vision with hands?on leadership, ensuring that transport performance underpins both customer satisfaction and sustainable business growth.

This role reports to the Operations Director / Managing Director

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership: Define and execute the national transport strategy, aligning operational delivery with business goals and long?term growth objectives.
• Continuous Improvement: Drive efficiency and service excellence through innovation, performance analysis, and the development of large?scale improvement projects with robust business cases.
• Health & Safety: Champion a positive safety culture and ensure all transport operations fully comply with UK legislation and company standards.
• Performance Management: Establish, track, and improve KPIs across cost, service, legal compliance, and sustainability metrics.
• Compliance Leadership: Act as the business lead for transport compliance, maintaining operator licences and adhering to driver hours, health, safety, and environmental regulations. Liaise with DVSA, Traffic Commissioner, and other industry regulators.
• Financial Management: Own the logistics budget, delivering cost?effectiveness without compromising service quality. Identify opportunities for commercial growth and operational savings.
• Technology and Systems: Utilise Transport Management Systems (TMS), telematics, and data insights to improve efficiency, visibility, and decision?making.
• Team Leadership: Lead and develop a team of Transport Managers, creating a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Sustainability: Deliver transport strategies that support ESG goals, reduce carbon emissions, and adopt low?emission vehicle technologies.

Skills, Knowledge & Experience

Strategic & Operational Leadership

• Proven record in developing and implementing national transport or logistics strategies.
• Strong decision?making and analytical capability in complex, multi?site operations.

Operational Expertise

• In-depth knowledge of route planning, fleet management, and transport optimisation.
• Familiarity with regulatory compliance and risk management within large transport networks.

Financial & Commercial Acumen

• Experienced in full P&L ownership, budgeting, and cost?control measures.
• Strong track record in improving operational efficiency and service delivery.

Technology & Innovation

• Skilled in TMS platforms, telematics, and using data analytics to drive performance improvement.
• Proven experience introducing digital or automation-led transport solutions.

Sustainability & ESG

• Understanding of sustainable logistics practices, carbon reduction initiatives, and environmental compliance frameworks such as ISO 14001 and Net Zero pathways.

Stakeholder & Change Management

• Excellent communication and influencing skills, able to engage effectively across senior leadership, suppliers, and regulatory bodies.
• Demonstrated success delivering organisational change and embedding new operational cultures.

Essential Experience

• 10+ years in logistics, transport, or supply chain management, including at least 5 years in a senior leadership capacity.
• Experience leading large, complex fleets within food production, FMCG, retail, or manufacturing environments.
• A strong record of delivering measurable improvements in cost efficiency, service performance, and sustainability outcomes.