Distribution Manager

POSITION OVERVIEW We are seeking an experienced and operationally sharp Distribution Manager to oversee end-to-end distribution activities across the UAE. This mid-level role sits at the heart of our supply chain, responsible for ensuring pharmaceutical and healthcare products are stored, handled, and delivered in full compliance with regulatory standards — on time, every time. The ideal candidate brings hands-on experience in pharmaceutical or healthcare distribution, a strong understanding of UAE regulatory requirements (GDP, MoHAP, DHA), and the leadership skills to manage a cross-functional warehouse and logistics team. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Distribution & Logistics Operations  • Manage day-to-day distribution operations including inbound, storage, order fulfillment, and last-mile delivery across the UAE  • Oversee route planning, fleet management, and delivery scheduling to ensure on-time delivery performance  • Coordinate with third-party logistics providers (3PLs), couriers, and freight forwarders  • Monitor and optimize distribution costs, delivery SLAs, and operational KPIs  • Ensure all delivery documentation (waybills, proof of delivery, invoices) is accurate and fully compliant  • Handle urgent, priority, and cold-chain deliveries with appropriate handling protocols Warehouse & Inventory Management  • Supervise warehouse operations including receiving, put-away, picking, packing, and dispatching  • Maintain accurate stock records and ensure inventory integrity through regular cycle counts and full stock audits  • Manage cold-chain storage areas, monitoring temperature and humidity logs in line with product specifications  • Enforce FEFO (First Expiry, First Out) and FIFO stock rotation policies across all product lines  • Minimize stock discrepancies, wastage, and expired goods through proactive inventory controls  • Oversee returns management — processing, quarantine, and disposal in line with company SOPs Regulatory & GDP Compliance  • Ensure full adherence to Good Distribution Practice (GDP) guidelines as required by MoHAP, DHA, and DOH  • Maintain all distribution licenses, storage permits, and regulatory documentation up to date  • Prepare for and lead internal and external GDP/regulatory audits; implement corrective actions (CAPAs) as required  • Ensure narcotics, controlled substances, and temperature-sensitive products are handled and stored per regulatory requirements  • Maintain and update SOPs for all distribution and warehousing activities  • Coordinate with the regulatory affairs team on product recalls, market withdrawals, and quarantine procedures Team Leadership & Development  • Lead, schedule, and manage a team of warehouse supervisors, logistics coordinators, and delivery drivers  • Set individual and team performance targets; conduct regular appraisals and performance reviews  • Identify training needs and upskill team members on GDP, safe handling, and operational procedures  • Foster a culture of accountability, safety, and continuous improvement across the distribution team  • Manage headcount planning, shift scheduling, and overtime allocation Customer Service & Stakeholder Management  • Act as the primary operational point of contact for key customers — hospitals, pharmacy chains, clinics, and wholesalers  • Resolve delivery issues, complaints, and discrepancies in a timely and professional manner  • Collaborate closely with the sales team to prioritize urgent orders and support key account requirements  • Liaise with procurement and supply planning teams to align inbound supply with outbound demand  • Provide regular updates to senior management on distribution performance, challenges, and improvement initiatives Systems & Reporting  • Manage and optimize the use of Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) and ERP platforms (SAP, Oracle, or similar)  • Generate daily, weekly, and monthly distribution reports covering on-time delivery, order accuracy, stock levels, and cost  • Identify operational bottlenecks and lead process improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency  • Track and report on fleet utilization, fuel consumption, and maintenance schedules Requirements Education  • Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, or a related field — required  • CIPS, APICS (CSCP/CPIM), or equivalent supply chain certification — a strong advantage Experience  • 5–8 years of progressive experience in distribution, logistics, or supply chain operations  • Minimum 2–3 years in a supervisory or managerial capacity leading a warehouse/distribution team  • Direct experience in pharmaceutical, healthcare, FMCG, or medical device distribution — strongly preferred  • Proven knowledge of GDP guidelines and UAE regulatory requirements (MoHAP, DHA, DOH)  • Experience managing cold-chain products and temperature-controlled storage environments — a significant advantage  • Track record of managing third-party logistics providers and carrier relationships in the UAE Skills & Competencies  • Strong operational leadership with the ability to manage both people and processes effectively  • Solid understanding of warehouse operations, inventory management, and last-mile logistics  • Proficient in WMS, TMS, and ERP systems (SAP, Oracle, Microsoft Dynamics, or similar)  • Excellent analytical skills — able to interpret operational data and drive decisions from KPIs  • High attention to detail with a compliance-first mindset  • Strong communication and stakeholder management skills across all levels  • Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced, high-volume environment  • Valid UAE driving license — preferred Languages  • English — fluent (required)  • Arabic — an advantage