Logistics Distribution Manager

Job Title: Sr Manager – Warehousing & Distribution – Logistics

Department: Logistics & Supply ChainJob PurposeThis role is responsible for owning the day-to-day logistics execution across the company's European operations.

The role acts as the operational control point between vendors, freight providers, 3PL warehouses, customer service, and internal supply chain teams, ensuring efficient stock movement, timely order processing, and clear visibility on logistics performance across wholesale, retail and marketplace channels.Key Responsibilities1. Operations Leadership & SLA OwnershipOwn end-to-end logistics execution KPIs, including inbound OTIF, warehouse SLA, outbound dispatch performance, return rates and exception resolution time.Lead daily and weekly operational governance with 3PL warehouse and transport partners, holding them accountable to contractual service levels.Act as the senior escalation point for execution issues impacting customer deliveries, brand launches and marketplace performance.Manage and develop direct reports, ensuring clear ownership and a strong execution culture.2. 3PL Warehouse & Service Provider GovernanceServe as the primary operational interface with 3PL warehouses and fulfillment partners.Govern receiving, putaway, order processing, picking, packing, dispatch and returns handling across all 3PL sites.Run regular performance reviews, drive corrective action plans, and lead contract renegotiation cycles where required.Onboard new 3PL partners and new lanes, including standard operating procedures, system integration and pricing schedules.3. Transport & Carrier ManagementOwn the relationship with freight forwarders, carriers and courier providers across inbound and outbound flows.Drive parcel carrier tender cycles, securing competitive rates and reliable service.Monitor shipment schedules, transport bookings, proof of delivery, transit-time performance and exception management.Lead freight optimisation initiatives across modes (sea, air, road) to balance cost, speed and service reliability.4. Inbound, Outbound & Inventory MovementOversee the daily flow of goods from suppliers into warehouses, and from warehouses to wholesale customers, retail stores, and end consumers.Coordinate stock transfers, urgent replenishments, and shipment prioritisation aligned to launch calendars and merchandising plans.Ensure accurate goods-in-transit visibility and timely system updates between WMS, ERP and partner platforms.Support stock migrations and inter-DC consolidations as required.5. Returns, Claims & Issue ResolutionLead operational management of returns, refused deliveries, shipment discrepancies and warehouse claims.Coordinate with customer service, warehouse partners and carriers to ensure timely closure and minimal financial leakage.Identify recurring issues and implement structural fixes through SOP changes, process redesign or partner reviews.6. KPI Reporting & Continuous ImprovementOwn and maintain logistics dashboards covering OTIF, warehouse SLAs, dispatch lead times, return rates, claims and operational exceptions.Provide regular operational reporting to senior management on performance, risks and improvement opportunities.Drive continuous improvement projects in execution discipline, automation and process efficiency.7. Cross-Functional CoordinationWork closely with planning, customer service, finance, IT and commercial teams to ensure logistics execution supports business priorities.Align shipment priorities with customer deadlines, launch calendars and replenishment plans.Maintain clear, structured communication across internal teams and external logistics stakeholders.Qualifications & ExperienceBachelor's degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Engineering or related field.6–10 years of relevant logistics operations experience, with at least 3 years in a leadership or managerial position.Strong, hands-on track record in 3PL warehouse governance, multi-carrier transport management and shipment execution.Demonstrated experience leading transformation, transitions or operational stand-ups.Prior experience in fashion, luxury, footwear, retail or premium consumer goods is highly preferred.Multi-country European logistics experience strongly preferred.Familiarity with ERP and WMS systems and logistics KPI reporting.Fluent in English; additional European languages an advantage.Key CompetenciesBuilder mindset – energised by setting up new processes, partners and KPIs.Hands-on operational discipline.Strong execution and follow-up rigour.Ability to lead, coach and hold partners accountable, including under pressure.Problem-solving and structured escalation management.Resilience under transformation and ambiguity.Strong written and verbal communication across cultures and time zones.