Distribution Manager - Gdansk

Are you passionate about working with Logistic Service Providers to deliver experience to our Customer? If so, we’re looking for an ambitious, proactive, and self-driven Distribution Manager to join our Strategic Centre of Excellence – European Distribution Control Centre team in Logistics.

Our team is a strategic function within Logistics Centre of Excellence, focused on defining best practices, driving operational excellence in distribution area. We are working within Transportation across Arla core European markets. In this role, you will take leadership responsibility for the ETCC distribution team. Responsible for planning, coordinating, and commissioning distribution between Arla facilities and to Arla Customers domestic and cross boarder through our logistics partners. Lead invoice control for purchased services in logistics, post-processing of damage cases, and communication between distribution service providers and customer service. Optimization of processes with a focus on improving customer service while reducing costs. You will work in a Global Department with Local stakeholders.

How you will make an impact 

As Distribution Manager, you will add value by driving operational excellence and leading day-to-day business. Your primary responsibilities will include

• Leading daily distribution operations in line with the supply chain strategy, driving KPIs, cost optimization, customer service, and Lean continuous improvement across safety, quality, sustainability, and digitalization.
• Standardizing distribution processes and performance management across European markets by implementing common KPIs, ensuring compliance, managing 3PL and carrier performance, and supporting distribution tendering in collaboration with SRM and Procurement.
• Driving ETCC expansion and market transitions by acting as the key point of contact, leading onboarding activities, facilitating 3PL performance reviews, and delivering continuous improvement initiatives.
• Developing and implementing ways of working and operational standards with 3PL partners to enhance efficiency, service quality, safety performance, and SLA compliance.
• Optimizing resource utilization and distribution performance by fostering strong collaboration with external partners, ensuring compliance with contracts and standards, supporting sustainability and CO₂ reduction initiatives, and driving results through global SQCDMP and local market KPIs.

What will make you successful 

You are distribution manager with proven track record in managing European Distribution setups (FMCG is benefit). Furthermore critical decision-making, leadership qualities, proactive problem-solving, excellent communication skills for conflict management. Proficiency in MS Office, SAP logistics visibility platforms is a big advantage. In terms of skills and competencies, fluency in English is essential, with German considered a significant advantage.

Additionally, we expect that you

• Proven experience in managing distribution operations and collaborating with transportation companies / logistics service providers (3PLs).
• Solid understanding of transportation regulations, preferably within the food industry or other regulated supply chains.
• Proven experience in change management and driving organizational or operational improvements.
• Highly proactive and results-driven, with a strong sense of ownership and accountability.
• Performance-oriented mindset with commercial focus.

Join our Global Centre of Excellence Team and collaborate with skilled, passionate colleagues who will support you every step of the way. In this dynamic role, no two days are the same — you will face diverse challenges and have the freedom to shape your work, enabling you to make a real impact while staying engaged and motivated.

As a Distribution Manager in European Distribution Control Centre you will be a part of Global Shared Services in Gdansk. Here, you won’t find factory machines or farmers. Instead, you will join over 800 colleagues dedicated to supporting all of Arla within distribution, IT, HR, financial and procurement operations. Joining us, you will take part in our mission to make a real difference for colleagues near and far.

Would you like to join us?

Please apply as soon as possible as we will process applications on a continuous basis and close recruitment once the right candidate is found.

For additional information, please contact Head of European Distribution Control Centre Dorota Borkowska-Wysokińska via email [email protected].

Shape the Future of Dairy 

Arla is a global leader in the dairy industry, committed to enabling good food choices that make life better, providing people with natural, sustainable nourishment, while taking care at every step to ensure Arla is a choice they can feel good about. If you are looking to shape the future with an ambitious global cooperative that truly cares about your growth, where everyone feels valued and empowered, and collaboration is the core of culture, Arla is a choice you can feel good about. 

 
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