Director Operations Logistics
WFA Digital Insight
As the demand for skilled logistics professionals grows, with a 25% increase in job postings in the last year, Cloetta's Director of Operations and Logistics role offers a unique opportunity to shape the company's US operations from the ground up. With the US confectionery market expected to reach $40 billion by 2027, this role requires a seasoned professional with expertise in supply chain management, regulatory compliance, and team leadership. Candidates should be prepared to leverage their skills in digital tools and remote work to drive business growth and success.
Job Description
About the Role
The Director of Operations and Logistics at Cloetta is a senior leadership role responsible for designing, building, and scaling the company's US operations and logistics setup. This includes managing the end-to-end operational process, from import and logistics to warehousing and customer delivery. The successful candidate will be a key member of the US management team, reporting to the US Country Manager and working closely with central operations, supply chain, quality, and procurement teams.As a founding member of the US management team, the Director of Operations and Logistics will play a critical role in shaping Cloetta's US business from the ground up. This includes defining the company's operational model, ensuring regulatory compliance, and driving business growth through strategic partnerships and process improvements.
The Director of Operations and Logistics will work in a remote setup, with domestic travel required. This role requires a high level of autonomy, strategic thinking, and leadership skills, as well as the ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams.
What You Will Do
- Design and establish the end-to-end US operational setup across import, logistics, warehousing, and distribution
- Own and drive the operational route to market, ensuring reliability, service levels, and cost discipline
- Select, structure, and manage key partners (3PLs, brokers, carriers) with scalability in mind
- Create a scalable, controlled platform by implementing operating models, governance, and SOPs
- Ensure full compliance with US regulatory and food safety requirements (FDA, FSMA, FSVP, customs)
- Partner closely with central operations, supply chain, quality, and procurement teams to translate global standards into a fit-for-purpose US reality
- Serve as the senior operational interface for audits, inspections, and escalations
- Lead the development of the US operational model, including designing and implementing processes and systems
- Manage and develop a team of operations professionals
- Develop and manage the US operations budget
- Identify and mitigate operational risks
What We Are Looking For
- 8-12+ years of experience in operations, logistics, or supply chain within food, CPG, or other regulated consumer goods
- Proven track record of building or scaling operating models, ideally in new markets
- Strong knowledge of US regulatory and food safety requirements (FDA, FSMA, FSVP, customs)
- Experience with digital tools and technologies, including logistics management systems and data analytics
- Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and develop team members
- Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work with cross-functional teams
- Strategic thinking and problem-solving skills, with the ability to analyze complex problems and develop creative solutions
- Strong business acumen, with the ability to drive business growth and success
Nice to Have
- Experience with lean manufacturing or six sigma methodologies
- Knowledge of international logistics and trade regulations
- Experience with project management tools and methodologies
- Certification in logistics or supply chain management (e.g. CLTD, CSCP)
Benefits and Perks
- Competitive salary and benefits package
- Opportunity to work with a leading confectionery company
- Remote work setup with domestic travel required
- Professional development opportunities, including training and education programs
- Collaborative and dynamic work environment
- Access to digital tools and technologies, including logistics management systems and data analytics
- Flexible work arrangements, including flexible hours and remote work options
- Health and wellness programs, including medical, dental, and vision insurance
- Retirement savings plan, including 401(k) matching
- Paid time off, including vacation days, sick leave, and holidays
How to Stand Out
- Be prepared to discuss your experience with digital tools and technologies, including logistics management systems and data analytics
- Highlight your knowledge of US regulatory and food safety requirements, including FDA, FSMA, FSVP, and customs
- Emphasize your leadership and team management skills, including your ability to motivate and develop team members
- Prepare examples of your strategic thinking and problem-solving skills, including your ability to analyze complex problems and develop creative solutions
- Research Cloetta's company culture and values, and be prepared to discuss how you align with them
- Be prepared to discuss your experience with project management tools and methodologies, including agile and lean principles
- Consider creating a portfolio or case studies of your work, including examples of your accomplishments and successes
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