What are the responsibilities and job description for the Global Head of Distribution position at Harvard Group International?
GLOBAL HEAD OF DISTRIBUTION
ROLE OVERVIEW
The Global Head of Distribution will lead material distribution across a complex global operation, ensuring reliable delivery to support production, repair, service requirements, and customer commitments. This highly visible leadership role will own distribution execution, material flow, delivery performance, issue resolution, and continuous improvement.
Reporting to the VP, Supply Chain, this leader will partner closely with Asset Management, Demand Planning, Operations, Finance, Procurement, and logistics providers to translate approved material allocations into coordinated execution from initial request through final delivery. The successful candidate will strengthen distribution visibility, operating discipline, material availability, and cross-functional coordination in a growing organization. Success requires an analytical, technology-oriented leader who anticipates delivery risks, standardizes processes, and takes ownership of complex issues.
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Lead end-to-end distribution execution, from material request and allocation through shipment tracking, issue resolution, and delivery confirmation.
- Coordinate material flows across a global, multi-site environment in support of production, repair, service, and customer priorities.
- Partner with Asset Management, Demand Planning, Operations, Procurement, and logistics providers to align priorities and delivery timing.
- Strengthen visibility into material movement, open requests, delivery risks, and outstanding exceptions using operational data and enterprise tools.
- Manage critical escalations and support timely, compliant international shipping, customs documentation, and trade processes.
- Standardize distribution workflows, accountability, performance measures, and communication to improve execution and reliability.
- Drive continuous improvement in service performance, distribution efficiency, and avoidable transportation costs.
REQUIREMENTS
- 5 years of experience managing complex material flows across international sites, manufacturing facilities, or service-parts networks.
- Understanding of manufacturing materials, production requirements, repair orders, inventory conditions, and their impact on service delivery.
- Strong analytical and technology skills, including ERP/WMS platforms, operational reporting, and data-driven process improvement.
- Working knowledge of international shipping, customs documentation, and cross-border trade requirements.
- Ability to coordinate demand planners, asset managers, site leadership, warehouse operations, and external logistics partners.
- Sound judgment in urgent escalations; ability to work independently, drive resolution, and thrive in a fast-paced, growing organization.
COMPENSATION
A meaningful compensation package will be developed for the successful candidate that includes a base salary plus performance-based bonus.
To apply, please submit your resume and cover letter, preferably in MS Word format, to Derek Bush dbush@harvardsearch.com. A fully detailed, formal specification will be sent to “top-level”, qualified candidates.