Area Distribution Manager - Lebanon, TN

schwans; Lebanon (TN); On-site; USD 68,000 - 113,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Paid time off

Retirement plan

Job summary

CJ Schwan’s in Lebanon, TN is seeking an Area Distribution Manager to lead depot distribution operations, drive performance, coach teams, ensure DOT compliance, and partner across sales, merchandising, and operations to support growth.

The role requires a Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience, 5+ years of related leadership in distribution or sales, and proficiency with Windows and Microsoft Office. CDL is required to operate commercial vehicles.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience.
• 5+ years related experience, ideally guiding DSD or sales teams.
• Strong communication, written and verbal, with group presentation skills.
• Proficiency in Windows and Microsoft Office Suite and Outlook.

Responsibilities

• Lead depot distribution operations and ensure DOT compliance and safety.
• Optimize routing, truck utilization and delivery execution to support sales opportunities.
• Recruit, hire, train and develop depot distribution staff.
• Prepare and present financial and KPI reports to management.

Skills

Communication skills

Analytical thinking

Time management

Leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Outlook

Job description

At CJ Schwan’s, we don’t just make food — we help create moments that matter. From kids devouring pizza after soccer practice, to students laughing over dumplings in a cafeteria, to families enjoying pie during the holidays, our team members play an important role in bringing those everyday moments to life. Our portfolio includes iconic pizzas, global flavors, and timeless desserts from brands like Red Baron®, bibigo®, Tony’s®, Big Daddy’s®, Villa Prima ®, Chef One ®, Twin Marquis ® and Minh®. Enjoyed in homes, schools, restaurants and just about everywhere people shop and eat, our products reflect a commitment to quality, innovation, and the power of food to bring people together.

We're seeking an experienced Area Distribution Manager to lead depot distribution operations in the Lebanon, TN area. This role is responsible for driving operational performance, developing and coaching distribution teams, ensuring DOT and safety compliance, optimizing routing and delivery execution, and partnering across sales, merchandising, and operations to support business growth.

What You Will Do:

• Manage staff to achieve distribution support of sales, operate within DOT guidelines and implementation of safety practices.
• Guide your team to ensure the maximization of deliveries, truck utilization, and provide extended support of store level sales opportunities through in-store promotions and customer service.
• Manage the preparation of distribution maintenance, dynamic routing and pre-trip/post-trip execution.
• Facilitate the recruitment, hiring, training and development of all depot distribution staff.
• Prepare and present financial and budget reports to management on status and key performance indicators.
• Monitor ongoing distribution and expense performance, communicate results and identify opportunities for continuous improvement.
• Analyze all distribution data and reports in order to make relevant business decisions.
• Manage customer relationships through continuous communications between sales, merchandising and operations to ensure maximum efficiencies and customer service.
• Ensure compliance and implementation of all company safety and DOT policies and procedures.

What You Will Bring:

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience,
• 5+ years related experience, ideally guiding DSD or sales teams.
• Basic proficiency in the use of a personal computer including Windows and the Microsoft Office Suite and Outlook.
• The ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing, as well as presenting information in group settings to a wide variety of audiences. Analytical and problem-solving skills. Strong organizational and time management skills.

Must meet the Federal Department of Transportation driver eligibility, medical certification requirements, and must possess a valid CDL from state of residence in order to operate a commercial motor vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 lbs. or greater.

What We Offer:

The base salary range for this position is $68,000 - $113,000 annually with eligibility for our Annual Incentive Program (AIP) bonus up to 20%, based on organizational performance. The salary range represents numerous factors considered in the hiring decisions including, but not limited to education, skills, work experience, certifications, geography etc. As such, starting pay for the successful candidate(s) could fall anywhere within the stated range.

Beyond base salary, we offer a competitive Total Rewards package designed to support your overall well-being, including comprehensive health benefits, time off programs, and retirement and financial offerings.

CJ Schwan’s and its subsidiaries are Equal Opportunity Employers. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, gender, age, disability, veteran status, national origin, or any other protected characteristic. We provide reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities or sincerely held religious beliefs. For accommodation requests or assistance with the application, please email [e-mail].