Manager of Distribution

Department:	Supply Chain / Operations
Reports To:	Director of Distribution
FLSA Status:	Exempt
Location:	On-Site — Columbus, Ohio

Position Summary

The Manager of Distribution is responsible for overseeing the end-to-end distribution operations that support GOSH Enterprises’ portfolio of brands, including Charleys, BIBIBOP Asian Grill, and Lenny’s Grill & Subs. This role ensures the timely, accurate, and cost-effective movement of product from distribution centers and suppliers to restaurant locations, managing carrier relationships, logistics workflows, and a team of distribution coordinators. The ideal candidate is a process-driven leader with deep expertise in food service or multi-unit distribution and a track record of building scalable, efficient supply chain operations.

What You’ll Own (Core Responsibilities)

Distribution Operations & Logistics

• Oversee daily inbound and outbound distribution operations, ensuring product is delivered to restaurant locations accurately, on time, and in compliance with food safety standards.
• Manage relationships with third-party logistics providers (3PLs), carriers, and distribution center partners, holding them accountable to SLAs and performance benchmarks.
• Develop and continuously optimize distribution routes, delivery schedules, and fulfillment workflows across the brand portfolio.
• Monitor freight costs, carrier performance, and delivery metrics, identifying opportunities for cost reduction and service improvement.
• Coordinate with the purchasing and supply chain teams to align inbound shipments with distribution timelines and inventory needs.

Team Leadership & Development

• Lead, coach, and develop a team of distribution coordinators, setting clear performance expectations and fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
• Conduct regular one-on-ones, performance reviews, and development conversations to support team growth.
• Build team capacity to manage increased distribution volume as the brand portfolio expands.
• Establish clear SOPs and training materials to onboard new team members and ensure consistent execution.

Inventory & Warehouse Coordination

• Partner with warehouse and distribution center teams to manage inventory accuracy, product rotation (FIFO), and storage compliance.
• Oversee cycle counts, physical inventory audits, and discrepancy resolution processes.
• Monitor product availability and coordinate expedited shipments when supply disruptions occur.
• Ensure distribution facilities and processes comply with food safety regulations, including temperature control and handling standards.

Reporting, Analytics & Continuous Improvement

• Track and report on key distribution KPIs including on-time delivery rate, fill rate, cost per case, and damage/shortage claims.
• Identify root causes of recurring distribution failures and implement corrective action plans.
• Lead or participate in cross-functional projects to improve supply chain efficiency and scalability.
• Prepare regular operational summaries for senior leadership on distribution performance, risks, and initiatives.

What Good Looks Like

You’ll be successful in this role if you:

• Drive consistent on-time delivery and fill rate performance across all brand locations, treating operational metrics as non-negotiable standards.
• Lead with clarity and accountability — your team knows exactly what success looks like and has the tools and support to achieve it.
• Build and maintain strong, performance-oriented relationships with carriers and logistics partners.
• Anticipate supply chain disruptions and respond with solutions before they impact restaurant operations.
• Balance day-to-day execution with a forward-looking mindset, continuously looking for ways to reduce cost and improve service.
• Communicate proactively with cross-functional partners in purchasing, operations, and finance to keep the supply chain aligned.

What You Bring (Qualifications)

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, or a related field; equivalent experience considered.
• 5+ years of experience in distribution, logistics, or supply chain operations, with at least 2 years in a people management role.
• Demonstrated experience managing third-party logistics providers and carrier relationships.
• Proficiency in transportation management systems (TMS), warehouse management systems (WMS), and Microsoft Excel.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret logistics data and translate insights into operational action.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills for cross-functional collaboration and vendor management.

Preferred

• Experience in food service distribution, restaurant supply chains, or perishable goods logistics.
• Familiarity with food safety regulations including HACCP, FSMA, and cold chain compliance requirements.
• APICS CSCP, CLTD, or equivalent supply chain certification.
• Experience supporting multi-brand or multi-unit restaurant environments.

Benefits Offered

• Generous paid time off
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Healthcare spending account (HSA)
• Retirement benefits or accounts
• Employee discounts across GOSH Enterprises brands

Equal Opportunity Employer

GOSH Enterprises is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in the application process and throughout employment, as required by applicable law. If you require assistance or accommodation, please inform us so we can ensure your needs are met. We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.