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Distribution Director Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Dufry

Hudson DC Director II

Carson, CA · On-site

$99K - $121K/yr

The Distribution Center Director II is responsible for leading a $100M - $225M distribution center serving multiple airport locations. Essential Functions: * Ensures management team manages inventory ...

Ventura Foods

Director, Distribution

Irvine, CA · On-site

Lead the company's Distribution functions with direct responsibilities of the Corporate Distribution team and dotted line oversight of the Plant Distribution Teams. This role will develop and execute ...

Ventura Foods

Director, Distribution

Irvine, CA · On-site

Lead the company's Distribution functions with direct responsibilities of the Corporate Distribution team and dotted line oversight of the Plant Distribution Teams. This role will develop and execute ...

Ventura Foods

Director, Distribution

Irvine, CA · On-site

Lead the company's Distribution functions with direct responsibilities of the Corporate Distribution team and dotted line oversight of the Plant Distribution Teams. This role will develop and execute ...

Ulta Beauty

Distribution Center Director

Fresno, CA · On-site

Manages a direct team of senior operational leaders and is responsible for the performance and development of all associates inside of the distribution center * Champions and models Ulta Beauty ...

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All JobsDistribution JobsDistribution Director JobsDistribution Director Jobs in California

Distribution Director information

See California salary details

$54.8K

$124.1K

$184.1K

How much do distribution director jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for distribution director in California is $124,136.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,800.00 and $151,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a distribution director do?

A Distribution Director oversees the strategy, planning, and execution of distributing products from manufacturers or suppliers to retailers or customers. They are responsible for managing logistics, optimizing supply chain operations, and ensuring timely delivery of goods. This role involves coordinating with various departments, analyzing distribution data, and implementing improvements to increase efficiency and reduce costs. Distribution Directors also handle vendor relationships, negotiate contracts, and ensure compliance with industry regulations.

What are some common challenges faced by distribution directors in managing supply chain operations?

Distribution Directors often encounter challenges such as optimizing logistics to balance cost efficiency with timely delivery, managing inventory fluctuations, and addressing unexpected disruptions like supplier delays or transportation issues. They must also coordinate across multiple teams—including procurement, warehouse, and transportation—to ensure seamless operations. Adapting to new technologies and regulatory changes, while maintaining high service levels, is a key part of the role. Successfully navigating these challenges requires strong leadership, problem-solving skills, and a proactive approach to process improvement.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a distribution director, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Distribution Director, you need extensive experience in supply chain management, logistics, and inventory control, often supported by a relevant bachelor's degree or MBA. Familiarity with warehouse management systems (WMS), enterprise resource planning (ERP) software, and certifications like APICS CPIM or CSCP are commonly required. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills help you manage teams and coordinate effectively with vendors and internal stakeholders. These competencies are crucial for optimizing distribution efficiency, reducing costs, and ensuring timely delivery of products.

What is the difference between Distribution Director vs Supply Chain Manager?

AspectDistribution DirectorSupply Chain Manager
CredentialsBachelor's degree in logistics, business, or related field; experience in distribution operationsBachelor's in supply chain, logistics, or business; certifications like CSCP or APICS often preferred
Work EnvironmentOversees distribution centers, logistics teams, and transportationManages end-to-end supply chain processes, including procurement, manufacturing, and distribution
Industry UsageCommon in retail, manufacturing, and logistics companiesUsed across manufacturing, retail, and technology sectors

The Distribution Director focuses primarily on overseeing distribution operations and logistics, ensuring timely delivery and efficient warehouse management. In contrast, the Supply Chain Manager manages the entire supply chain process, from procurement to delivery, with a broader scope. Both roles require logistics knowledge and industry experience but differ in their strategic and operational focus.

What are the most commonly searched types of Distribution jobs in California?

The most popular types of Distribution jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Distribution Director jobs?

Cities in California with the most Distribution Director job openings:

Infographic showing various Distribution Director job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $124,136 per year, or $59.7 per hour.

Hudson DC Director II

Carson, CA • On-site

Dufry
10K+ employees
Learn more about Dufryexternal

$99K - $121K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Opportunity, growth, and meaningful rewards! We offer:
  • Health, dental and vision insurance
  • Generous paid time off (vacation, flex or sick)
  • Holiday pay
  • *401(k) retirement plan
  • *Company paid life insurance
  • *Tuition reimbursement
  • Employee discounts across all company brands
  • Employee assistance program
  • Training and exciting career growth opportunities
  • Referral program - refer a friend and earn a bonus

*Benefits may vary by position so ask your recruiter for details.
Advertised Compensation: $99,126.00 to $121,654.00
Purpose: The Distribution Center Director II is responsible for leading a $100M - $225M distribution center serving multiple airport locations.
Essential Functions:
  • Ensures management team manages inventory accuracy including transportation of orders/returns to multiple locations, product rotation, temperature control procedures, and reverse logistics using distribution management systems
  • Oversees managers responsible for day-to-day distribution center activities including staff scheduling, shift coverage, and operational continuity while providing excellent service to multiple airport locations in receiving, processing, and distributing merchandise for retail and F&B operations; develops and implements contingency plans for distribution center operations
  • Manages multiple vendor relationships to ensure proper stock levels support sales objectives across served locations; ensures distribution operations coordination across retail, restaurant, and duty-free shops while resolving delivery issues, shortages, and quality concerns
  • Monitors and reports on key performance indicators (KPIs) including inbound throughput, labor efficiency, and operational metrics across multiple locations;
  • Ensures compliance with U.S. Customs, FDA, and other regulatory bodies; maintains accurate records especially for bonded merchandise and passes required government background checks
  • Holds managers accountable for comprehensive food safety protocols including FIFO stock rotation, expiration date monitoring, and HACCP compliance; conducts regular Quality Assurance tours and maintains security of food storage areas
  • Hires, trains, coaches, and develops distribution center staff while fostering a culture of accountability; administers corrective actions and terminations as needed following company policies and union agreements where applicable
  • Partners with airport management teams across served locations to align operational goals

Reporting Relationship & Role Information:
  • This position typically reports to the Senior Director of Distribution & Logistics
  • The Distribution Center Director II position as described falls under the Fair Labor Standards Act as an Exempt position
  • Requires scheduling flexibility to work various shifts including days, evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays as operational needs require
  • Physical Requirements:
    • Ability to walk extensively throughout distribution centers and airport locations for extended periods
    • Lift, carry, and move inventory items up to 50 pounds occasionally
    • Visual acuity to review inventory records, conduct physical counts, and analyze data reports
    • Work in varying warehouse and retail environments with different temperature and noise levels
  • The Distribution Director position forms part of a series of leadership positions of increasing scope and complexity, illustrated by the table below:

Position
Revenue Accountability
Senior Distribution Center Manager I
Up to $8M
Senior Distribution Center Manager II
$8-25M
Senior Distribution Center Manager III
$25-50M
Distribution Center Director I
$50-100M
Distribution Center Director II
$100-225M
Distribution Center Director III
$225M-400M
Distribution Center Director IV
$400M+
Minimum Qualifications, Knowledge, Skills, and Work Environment:
  • Education and Experience: The combination of education and professional experience must exceed 8 years:
    • Requires minimum 4 years of Supply Chain and Logistics leadership experience leading senior level managers and staff within distribution center, supply chain, and/or logistics teams serving multiple locations; experience managing in a unionized environment (CBA) preferred
    • In a technical role: Requires 8 years of experience in distribution operations, inventory management, or supply chain coordination with multi-location responsibility

Avolta, including Dufry, HMSHost Corporation, Hudson, and affiliates ("the Company"), is an equal opportunity employer. It is the Company's policy to ensure equal employment opportunity in all aspects of employment and to comply with anti-discrimination laws and regulations. The Company prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type and provides equal opportunities to applicants and team members without regard to actual or perceived race, color, creed, age, religion, sex or gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, related medical conditions and lactation), gender identity or gender expression (including transgender status), sexual orientation, national origin, disability, military service and veteran status, ancestry, citizenship status, marital status, protected medical condition as defined by applicable state or local law, genetic information, or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local laws and ordinances (referred to as "protected characteristics").
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