International Distribution Vice President

International Distribution Vice PresidentCore Responsibilities:Design and execute global route-to-market strategy; recruit, manage, and expand distributor, reseller, agent, and 3PL partner relationships across international marketsLead international distribution strategy across key markets, channels, and partner types to drive market expansion, revenue growth, and partner performance across regionsOversee international logistics, freight forwarding, customs brokerage, export/import compliance, and cross-border trade operations ensuring timely, cost-effective, and compliant movement of goodsPartner with Sales, Marketing, Supply Chain, Finance, Legal, and Product teams to align product assortment, pricing, inventory, contract terms, and service levels across regionsSet performance expectations, territory plans, commercial targets, and SLAs for international partners; monitor distributor productivity, channel conflict, compliance, and service qualityManage and optimize global distribution network including company-owned distribution centers, regional hubs, and third-party logistics (3PL) partners domestically and internationallyRepresent the firm in senior-level discussions with strategic partners, regional stakeholders, government agencies, and industry bodiesDrive continuous improvement in distribution operations through process optimization, technology adoption, automation, and best practice deployment across all facilitiesEstablish measurement metrics and performance targets for fill rate, on-time delivery, customer satisfaction, inventory accuracy, footprint utilization, and total distribution costLead annual budgeting, forecasting, and capital planning for international distribution operations in partnership with Finance and regional leadershipEnsure compliance with international trade regulations, customs requirements, safety standards, and local labor laws across all marketsBuild and lead high-performing international distribution team; foster culture of accountability, safety, customer focus, and operational excellenceOversee major projects including distribution center expansions, layout changes, equipment investments, space optimization, and operational improvements across national and international locationsStay current on information, technology, and trends affecting global distribution; promote innovation and make appropriate recommendations to executive leadershipTypical Profile:Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Logistics, International Business, Operations, or related field required; MBA or Master's strongly preferred18+ years of progressive experience in international distribution, global logistics, channel management, or supply chain leadership10+ years in senior distribution or logistics leadership roles with P&L or significant budget accountabilityDeep expertise in international trade, export/import compliance, customs regulations, Incoterms, and cross-border logisticsStrong knowledge of distributor economics, route-to-market strategy, partner management, and channel developmentProven track record building, scaling, and optimizing international distribution networks across multiple countries or regionsExperience managing company-owned distribution centers and third-party logistics (3PL) partners in complex, multi-location environmentsExcellent leadership, communication, and executive presence; ability to influence C-suite, external partners, and regional stakeholdersStrong analytical and problem-solving skills with data-driven decision-making mindsetExperience in relevant industry verticals (CPG, consumer goods, pharmaceuticals, industrial, technology, retail, etc.)Proficiency in distribution management systems, WMS, TMS, ERP platforms, and logistics analytics toolsStrategic thinker with hands-on execution mindset; comfortable operating in ambiguity and fast-paced, global environmentsCross-cultural competence and experience managing multi-cultural teams and partner ecosystemsWillingness to travel extensively (40–60%) internationally for partner meetings, site visits, and stakeholder engagementsKey Metrics:Revenue growth and market share through international distribution channelsPartner productivity, retention, and geographic coverageFill rate, on-time delivery, and service levels across regionsDistribution cost as % of revenue and cost optimization year-over-yearInventory accuracy, turns, and availability across international networkChannel compliance and reduction in conflict or leakageCustomer satisfaction (CSAT, NPS) and service quality scoresTrade compliance and customs audit results (zero violations)Safety performance (incident rates, OSHA compliance) across facilitiesTeam performance, retention, and capability developmentCapital project delivery and ROI on distribution investmentsStakeholder satisfaction (partners, internal leadership, customers)