Distribution Manager

Your Fit

Income

$102K

Preparation

Considerable

Growth

8.2%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Distribution Manager?

Distribution Managers oversee the storage and distribution of a company's products or materials. They are responsible for coordinating logistics, managing warehouse operations, and ensuring efficient delivery to customers.

Sample job titles:

Distribution Center Manager, Fleet Manager, Logistics Operations Manager, Supply Chain Logistics Manager

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Distribution Manager.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does a Distribution Manager earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) in 2024 was...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$61K per year	$78K per year	$102K per year	$136K per year	$181K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $52K above the national average.

See income by country/state/province

What does a Distribution Manager do?

Work environment

Distribution Managers typically work in warehouses, distribution centers, or corporate offices. Their work involves both office tasks and active supervision in warehouse settings. The role may require coordinating with various departments, managing staff, and sometimes dealing with suppliers and customers directly.

Quick task list

Plans and coordinates the distribution of products.
Manages warehouse operations, including staff supervision and inventory control.
Oversees transportation logistics and delivery schedules.
Implements and monitors efficiency and cost-reduction strategies.
Ensures compliance with safety and regulatory standards.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Logistics Management: Focusing on the optimization of transportation and logistics operations.
Warehouse Management: Specializing in the management of warehouse operations and inventory systems.
Supply Chain Coordination: Overseeing the entire supply chain, from supplier to customer.
Strategic Planning and Development: Developing long-term strategies for distribution and logistics efficiency.

Description

Distribution Managers play a crucial role in ensuring that a company's products reach their destinations efficiently and on time. They need to have a comprehensive understanding of supply chain management, including warehousing, logistics, and transportation. This involves not only overseeing physical operations but also strategizing to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance customer satisfaction.

Strong leadership and organizational skills are vital, as Distribution Managers often lead large teams and coordinate with various internal and external stakeholders. They must be adept at problem-solving, able to address logistical challenges, and capable of making decisions under pressure.

The role requires a constant focus on optimizing processes and adapting to changes in the market or business needs. Technology plays a significant role, and staying updated with the latest logistics software and management systems is crucial. Effective communication skills are also essential, both for team management and for negotiating with suppliers and transport services.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Ensuring the smooth and efficient distribution of products.
Overcoming challenges in logistics and supply chain management.
Leading and developing a productive team.

You might make a good Distribution Manager if you are...

Highly organized with a talent for logistics and planning.
A strong leader with effective team management skills.
Good at problem-solving and making quick decisions.
Interested in supply chain management and logistics.
Capable of handling a fast-paced and dynamic work environment.

Pros:

Central Role in Supply Chain: Distribution Managers play a key role in supply chain management, ensuring efficient movement of goods, which is crucial for business success.
Dynamic Work Environment: The job involves a variety of tasks and challenges, offering a fast-paced and ever-changing work environment.
Opportunities for Problem Solving: Regular opportunities to solve logistical and operational problems, making the role engaging for those who enjoy critical thinking.
Career Advancement: Potential for career growth into higher management positions and opportunities to work in various industries.

Cons:

High-Stress Levels: Managing the complexities of distribution can be stressful, especially when dealing with tight deadlines and logistical challenges.
Long Working Hours: The role might require working beyond standard business hours, particularly during peak seasons or in emergencies.
Constant Need for Adaptation: The need to stay updated with the latest logistics technologies and supply chain management practices.
Physical Demands: The job may involve spending time in warehouses and distribution centers, which can be physically demanding.

How to become a Distribution Manager

Typical education

A bachelor's degree in business, logistics, supply chain management, or a related field is commonly required. Some positions may value practical experience in logistics and distribution as equally important.

High school preparation

Courses:

Mathematics and Statistics: For managing inventory, logistics planning, and analyzing distribution metrics.
Business Studies: To understand basic principles of business and management.
Computer Science: Knowledge of computer systems is essential, as most distribution logistics rely heavily on software and technology.
Economics: For an understanding of market dynamics and supply chain economics.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Leadership Roles in School Clubs or Teams: To develop management and leadership skills.
Part-time Jobs or Internships in Retail or Warehousing: To gain practical experience in inventory management and distribution.
Volunteering for Event Organization: Offers experience in logistics and coordination.

Preparation after high school

Bachelor's Degree: Preferably in business administration, supply chain management, or logistics.
Internships in Logistics or Distribution Centers: To gain hands-on experience in the field.
Certifications: Such as Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution (CLTD) or Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP).
Continuing Education: In areas like logistics technology, operations management, and advanced supply chain strategies.

More resources

Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP) - Provides resources, education, and networking opportunities in supply chain management.
The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) - Offers a range of resources and qualifications for logistics and transport professionals.
Institute for Supply Management (ISM) - Provides education and research resources in supply management.
Logistics Management - A publication offering the latest news and insights in logistics and supply chain management.

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