Established in 1997, this company is a major player in Ethiopia’s edible oil production, commodity exporting, and branded consumer goods distribution. It operates multiple business units, including a large-scale edible oil factory, a coffee export division, and a supply chain for oilseeds, pulses, and spices. The company also engages in equipment leasing and tender services, with operational centers across Ethiopia to ensure proximity to customers and suppliers. Committed to quality, reliability, and strong partnerships, it strives to be a socially responsible, world-class enterprise that drives development through entrepreneurship.

The Distributor Manager is responsible for effectively managing the company’s assigned distributors and agents, ensuring they operate with professionalism and meet established performance standards. The role involves setting clear operational guidelines, monitoring execution, and driving distributors’ success in day-to-day business activities.

The incumbent will also work closely with the Field Sales Team to identify gaps, address performance deviations, and implement timely corrective actions to maintain excellence across the distribution network.

Duties & Responsibilities:

1. Distribution Strategy & Operational Excellence

• Lead and manage the product stock allocation process across customers to ensure consistent market availability.

• Participate in S&OP (Sales & Operations Planning) meetings to align demand, production, and distribution strategies.

• Ensure strong integration between production schedules and distribution plans for seamless supply flow.

• Coordinate with production, storage, logistics, and returns teams to optimize finished goods movement.

• Negotiate with customers, suppliers, transporters, and third-party service providers to secure efficient and cost-effective operations.

• Maintain zero downtime in warehousing operations by ensuring continuous workflow, proper equipment, and operational readiness.

• Ensure timely submission of all required weekly and monthly reports by distributors to the relevant internal departments.

2. Logistics, Transportation & Inventory Management

• Ensure efficient allocation and management of primary transport to support on-time delivery.

• Analyze and develop optimal routing, transport modes, equipment utilization, and delivery frequencies.

• Manage route settlement systems and ensure proper documentation for all transport activities.

• Calculate annual packaging requirements 

• Maintain an efficient maintenance system for all company vehicles involved in distribution.

• Ensure strict adherence to government regulations related to warehousing, transportation, and material handling.

• Safeguard warehouse operations by establishing and monitoring security protocols.

3. Administration & Reporting

• Provide regular reports on distribution activities, operational performance, and key learnings.

• Serve as the custodian of all distribution information systems and related data.

• Maintain a clean, safe, and compliant working environment across warehouse facilities.

• Resolve transportation, logistics, and customer service issues in a timely and effective manner.

• Ensure all transport providers comply with company policies and delivery requirements.

4. People Leadership & Team Management

• Lead, supervise, and develop distribution and warehouse teams to ensure strong performance and operational discipline.

• Manage staffing processes including recruitment, selection, onboarding, and orientation of distribution personnel.

• Implement performance management systems, including coaching, counseling, disciplinary actions, and performance appraisals.

• Foster positive team dynamics and maintain a healthy working relationship with labor unions.

• Ensure all distribution staff adhere to operational standards and deliver timely, accurate service to meet targets.

Job Requirements

Qualifications & Academic Requirements

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Logistics & Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Management, Industrial Engineering, Marketing, or a related field.

• A Master’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain, or Business Administration (MBA) is an added advantage.

Experience

• Minimum 5 years of experience in distribution, logistics, or supply chain management, preferably within FMCG, food manufacturing, edibles, beverages, or consumer goods industries.

• At least 2 years of experience in a managerial or supervisory role overseeing large-scale distribution operations.

• Proven experience in managing fleets, warehouses, and multi-regional distribution networks.

• Strong knowledge of distribution planning, inventory management, and transport optimization.

• Sound understanding of warehouse operations, returnable packaging management, and material handling standards.

• Proficiency in data analysis, logistics modeling, and KPIs (e.g., fill rate, OTIF, fleet performance).

• Solid understanding of ERP systems, 

• Strong leadership, excellent communication, coordination, and stakeholder-management skills.

• High level of integrity, accountability, and attention to detail.

• Ability to work under pressure, manage competing priorities, and deliver results.

How To Apply

interested and qualified applicants should submit their updated CV here on the website or through email to “deborah.eshetu@ethiojobs.net” using the subject line “Distribution Manager ”