Director of Distribution

Director Of Distribution, Supply Chain

Steak n Shake's Director of Distribution, Supply Chain understands the company vision and mission and within that framework plays a critical role in supporting restaurants and retail outlets by managing the supply of products and services to the Steak 'n Shake system.

Primary and On-Going Accountabilities

• Support the Sr. Director of Distribution & Logistics in the development and execution of the company's distribution and logistics strategy, aligned with growth and operational goals
• Oversee daily distribution operations, including warehousing, transportation, and inventory replenishment to restaurants and retail outlets
• Manage and evaluate 3PL providers and distribution center performance, ensuring compliance with service levels, food safety, and cost targets
• Partner cross-functionally with Procurement, Operations, Culinary, and Finance teams to support new product rollouts, LTOs (limited time offers), and restaurant openings
• Identify and implement continuous improvement initiatives to drive efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance service levels
• Establish KPIs and reporting frameworks to monitor performance, costs, and delivery metrics across all distribution nodes
• Negotiate contracts with 3PL and distribution service providers
• Manage transportation strategy, including route optimization, freight costs, and carrier performance
• Conduct regular performance reviews of 3PL providers and distributors
• Maintain behaviors and actions consistent with the company's values and standards
• Continuously look for ways to increase professional development
• Regular and punctual attendance, which includes working normal business hours that support the restaurant's needs
• Performs other related duties as required and assigned
• Travel as required, 10% of the time

Key Relationships

Interact daily with all members of the Supply Chain Team and Restaurant Corporate Office. Frequent interactions with suppliers, National Sales leadership for retail, field senior leadership team, finance team and other Support Center employees.

Required Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business, or related field (Master's preferred)
• 8+ years of progressive experience in distribution/logistics, preferably in the foodservice or restaurant industry
• 3+ years of leadership experience managing distribution networks or 3PLs
• Proven success in optimizing distribution networks in multi-unit environments
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with proficiency in supply chain software (e.g. ArrowStream)
• Excellent leadership, communication, and vendor negotiation skills.

Competencies

• Accountability
• Analytical
• Communication
• Continuous Learning
• Critical Evaluation
• Execution Excellence & Reliability
• Ethical Practice
• Flexibility / Open Mindedness
• Innovation
• Strategic Thinking
• Teamwork & Collaboration