How to Become a Distribution Manager

Step 1: Understand the job description and responsibilities of a Distribution Manager

What does a Distribution Manager do?

A Distribution Manager manages and deploys the operational strategy, business processes, and systems for overall distribution operations, including order fulfillment, warehousing, inventory management, and transportation. Communicates and monitors production measurement metrics and sets performance targets at the team and individual level for all distribution-related functions that align with company objectives and are within regulatory guidelines. Being a Distribution Manager utilizes data-driven analytical tools and systems to continuously monitor operations, identify inefficiencies, and develop optimization strategies. Troubleshoots and resolves escalated operational issues. Additionally, Distribution Manager ensures all operations adhere to industry safety protocols and comply with OSHA, DOT, or other governmental regulations. May require a bachelor's degree. Typically reports to a head of a unit/department. The Distribution Manager manages subordinate staff in the day-to-day performance of their jobs. True first level manager. Ensures that project/department milestones/goals are met and adhering to approved budgets. Has full authority for personnel actions. To be a Distribution Manager typically requires 5 years experience in the related area as an individual contributor. 1 - 3 years supervisory experience may be required. Extensive knowledge of the function and department processes.

People's Opinions on Distribution Manager responsibilities

Most distribution managers work for manufacturing firms and wholesale distributing companies, making decisions about how and where products should be delivered.

02/12/2020: Parkersburg, WV

A distribution manager usually must have excellent leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills to ensure that workers stay on task at distribution centers and that products are delivered to their destinations in an accurate, timely manner.

12/02/2019: Washington, DC

Most distribution mangers work for centers that stock and ship products from many different manufacturers.

12/04/2019: Harrisburg, PA

Managers advertise to retailers by putting together catalogs and magazines that outline products, prices, and deals.

01/20/2020: Fort Worth, TX

Some managers actually visit retailers to demonstrate their products and discuss ordering terms.

02/11/2020: Chicago, IL
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Step 2: Learn best tips to become a Distribution Manager

Best tips for those who want to become a Distribution Manager

Here are some tips to become a Distribution Manager.

People's Opinions on best tips

The pop-up displays the airframe name, Garmin system ID and avionics software version.

12/14/2019: Springfield, OH

Prioritize Fast-Moving Products.

01/20/2020: Boca Raton, FL

Automate the Data Collection Process.

12/30/2019: Greensboro, NC

Use Inventory Management Software.

02/23/2020: Juneau, AK

Intelligent Inventory Management.

01/05/2020: Appleton, WI
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Step 3: View best colleges and universities for Distribution Manager

Best colleges and universities for Distribution Manager

  • Butler University
  • Taylor University
  • California State University--Maritime Academy
  • William Jessup University
  • Fairfield University
  • United States Merchant Marine Academy

Step 4: Think about whether is it worth to be a Distribution Manager

Is being a Distribution Manager Worth it?

Step 5: Prepare relevant skills for being a Distribution Manager

What skills do you need to be a Distribution Manager?

This role is not a beginner's role, as such, there are many skills required.  It is vital to the role to command: Distribution Management, Replenishment and Ordering, Supply Network Planning, Transportation Management, Order Tracking.  For this position, you need to be experienced with: Distribution Software.  Management isn't easy, if it were, everyone would have the competenticies to execute the role with success.

People's Opinions on Distribution Manager skills

To become an effective leader, an aspiring distribution center manager should have prior experience in the fields of business, supply chain management, and operations management.

01/03/2020: Killeen, TX

On the average, employers require distribution center managers to have at least 2 years of experience in the floor before promoting them.

12/14/2019: Shreveport, LA

In this very modern world, a distribution center manager should possess technical skills in order to hasten the warehouse logistics processes.

01/14/2020: Philadelphia, PA

Written and verbal communication skills are essential to become a successful distribution manager.

02/05/2020: Akron, OH

A distribution manager usually must have excellent leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills to ensure that workers stay on task at distribution centers and that products are delivered to their destinations in an accurate, timely manner.

12/12/2019: Saint Petersburg, FL
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Step 6: View average salary for Distribution Manager

How much does a Distribution Manager make?

The average salary range for a Distribution Manager is from $89,561 to $123,567. The salary will change depending on your location, job level, experience, education, and skills.

Salary range for a Distribution Manager
$89,561 to $123,567

Step 7: Find relevant Distribution Manager jobs, and apply.

Looking for Distribution Manager jobs?

Here are some Distribution Manager jobs in the United States.

Search Distribution Manager Jobs in the United States

Step 8: Explore Career Path of Distribution Manager

Step 8: Explore Career Path of Distribution Manager? Distribution Manager