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Distribution Director Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

The Director of Logistics and Distribution will lead our warehouse teams and drive optimization in location, operations and advancing the company in technology to improve efficiency and cost. This ...

Director of Distribution

Lake Zurich, IL · On-site

$160K - $180K/yr

ECHO Incorporated is searching for an experienced Director of Distribution to champion best in class processes to support the organization's strategic initiatives and growth. This role is responsible ...

Director of Distribution

Lake Zurich, IL · On-site

$160K - $180K/yr

ECHO Incorporated is searching for an experienced Director of Distribution to champion best in class processes to support the organization's strategic initiatives and growth. This role is responsible ...

Director of Distribution

Lake Zurich, IL · On-site

$160K - $180K/yr

ECHO Incorporated is searching for an experienced Director of Distribution to champion best in class processes to support the organization's strategic initiatives and growth. This role is responsible ...

Distribution Manager Wisconsin Distribution Center 12885 104th Street, Pleasant Prairie, WI 53158 ... Direct all aspects of day-to-day warehouse operations across inbound, outbound and supporting ...

Distribution Manager Kenosha Branch 12355 Uline Way, Kenosha, WI 53144 Are you a hands-on warehouse ... Direct all aspects of day-to-day warehouse operations across inbound, outbound and supporting ...

Direct spare parts distribution operations across multiple locations, driving operational excellence, productivity improvements, quality standards, and cost optimization. * Partner with dealers ...

Direct spare parts distribution operations across multiple locations, driving operational excellence, productivity improvements, quality standards, and cost optimization. * Partner with dealers ...

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Distribution Director information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$57.2K

$129.6K

$192.1K

How much do distribution director jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for distribution director in Chicago, IL is $129,575.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $94,800.00 and $158,100.00 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 Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Distribution jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Distribution Director job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $129,575 per year, or $62.3 per hour.

Logistics and Distribution Director

Harvey, IL • On-site

$175K - $190K/yr

Other

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

FUCHS is the world's largest independent supplier of innovative lubrication solutions, covering almost every industry and application. Our products and solutions keep the world moving even though they are not always visible. What matters is that each of our over 6,000 employees in over 50 countries is visible - their entrepreneurial spirit, ideas and skills are the foundation of our global business.

Come be seen at FUCHS by joining us as:

Logistics and Distribution Director

Location: Harvey, IL, US, 60426

MOVING YOUR WORLD by focusing on your success:
FUCHS offers a challenging and rewarding working environment where employees are encouraged to develop and grow. We stand behind our core values: trust, creating value, respect, reliability, and integrity. Ours is a culture that fosters creativity and empowerment, values work/life balance, and gives you the freedom to excel. At FUCHS we aim to nurture your capabilities, ideas and career.

Salary:
FUCHS offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience in a similar position. The salary range for this position is $175,000 - $190,000 per year, but actual salary will vary depending upon a new hire’s experience and qualifications as well as internal equity.

Your Responsibilities:

The job will be responsible for setting and executing the strategy for Fuchs Corps logistics and distribution programs to drive ser-vice improvements to our customers and optimize cost. The Director of Logistics and Distribution will lead our warehouse teams and drive optimization in location, operations and advancing the company in technology to improve efficiency and cost. This role will also be responsible for the relationships, risk and financial management of all distribution partners, suppliers and 3PLs includ-ing the selection and onboarding of any new ones as business needs dictate.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities
  • Provide strategic leadership to manage, lead and direct the Fuchs Corp, logistics and distribution team to optimize op-erations, drive efficiency and improve processes with new concepts and experience to make logistics and distribution a competitive advantage.
  • Recommend, develop, and deploy opportunities for distribution and logistics cost reductions, risk management, and ser-vice improvements.
  • Supporting the P&L through concepts that optimize ways to store and transport goods, warehouse goods to improve budget costing positions.
  • Manage key logistics and distribution partners, managing supplier relationship management to ensure long term success and distribution.
  • Manage RFP process for logistics and distribution partners, including awarding business, implementation, and internal change management.
  • Develop and maintain KPI’s to drive continuous improvement in the areas of transportation, including on time in full de-livery, freight cost management, fuel cost management, internal over the road freight teams.
  • Team up with procurement to oversee negotiation of distribution partners and 3PL contracts and services.
  • Responsible for the daily operations of the logistics department, distribution department, as we as demonstrating the ability to be a strategic partner to help foster the company progress towards our Fuchs2025 vision.
  • Collaborate with internal departments including information technology, engineering, and operations to drive advanced technologies to increase efficiency and effectiveness of product movement and handling.
Qualifications we are looking for:
  • Bachelor's Degree in Transportation, Logistics, Distribution, Supply Chain or Business, or related field.
  • Minimum 5 years of previous managerial experience in logistics and/or distribution management
  • Excellent analytical and mathematical skills
  • Strong knowledge of logistics and distribution / supply chain.
  • Successful track record in leading senior level strategic initiatives.
  • Effective communicator with strong relationship building skills at all levels in the organization.
  • Strong negotiation skills.

FUCHS offers a challenging and rewarding working environment where employees are encouraged to develop and grow as pro-fessionals. In this role, you will have the opportunity to work on projects that will expand your experience and challenge your abilities in the global marketplace. The position also offers an excellent compensation package and a comprehensive suite of benefits. Detailed benefit information can be found at this link: https://fuchs.com/us/en/benefits .

FUCHS Lubricants Co. is an equal employment opportunity (EEO)/AA employer and strongly supports diversity in the workplace (m/f/d/v).

Do you have any questions?Rosalinda Almanza (rosalinda.almanza@fuchs.com) will be more than happy to answer them!

Come be seen at FUCHS – join our team and move the world with us!
jobs.fuchs.com

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