At L'Oréal, the world leader in beauty, we inspire and empower millions of people through our portfolio of iconic brands. Our success is built on constant innovation, agility, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. If you are passionate about logistics and want to contribute to the beauty that moves the world, this is your opportunity! 

We are seeking a highly motivated and results-oriented Physical Distribution Manager to lead and optimize our supply chain. This role is within the Supply Chain/Logistics department, reporting to the Physical Distribution Director of the Central America & Andean Region. The scope of this position covers the Panama Hub, exporting to 15 countries in Central America and the Andean Region. 

In this strategic role, you will be responsible for ensuring an exceptional level of service to our distributors and the market, driving efficiency and operational excellence.
 

Key Responsibilities:

• Regional Distribution Strategy: Develop and implement the distribution strategy for the Panama Hub, overseeing the efficient flow of goods to 15 countries across Central America and the Andean Region. This includes optimizing the hub's operations for maximum throughput and minimizing transit times.
• Hub Operations Management: Oversee all daily operations within the Panama distribution hub, including receiving, storage, order consolidation, picking, packing, and shipping. Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations and safety standards. Optimize warehouse layout, storage capacity, and material handling equipment for efficient regional distribution.
• Export Management: Manage all aspects of the export process, including documentation, customs compliance, free trade zones, and other international trade requirements. Maintain strong relationships with customs brokers, freight forwarders, and other relevant parties.
• Transportation & Logistics: Select and manage transportation carriers (air, ocean, land) to optimize cost and delivery times for shipments to all 15 destination countries. Negotiate rates, track shipments, and ensure timely and efficient delivery.
• Inventory Management: Implement and oversee inventory control processes within the Panama Hub. Balance inventory levels to meet the demand from the 15 destination countries while minimizing storage costs and obsolescence. Coordinate closely with demand planning and supply teams.
• Performance Monitoring & Reporting: Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for the Panama Hub, including order fulfillment rates, on-time delivery, transportation costs, and inventory turnover. Analyze performance data, identify areas for improvement, and implement corrective actions. Provide regular performance reports to regional management.
• Team Leadership & Development: Lead and motivate the distribution team in the Panama Hub, providing training, development, and performance feedback. Foster a culture of efficiency, accuracy, and continuous improvement.
• Technology Implementation & Optimization: Evaluate, implement, and optimize technology solutions to enhance the hub's operations, including WMS, TMS, and other supply chain software.
• Budget Management: Develop and manage the annual operating budget for the Panama distribution hub. Track expenses, identify cost-saving opportunities, and ensure adherence to budgetary targets.
• Collaboration & Communication: Collaborate effectively with internal departments (sales, marketing, finance, supply planning) and external partners (customs brokers, freight forwarders, government agencies) to ensure seamless and efficient regional distribution.

Qualifications and Skills:

• Master's degree in Engineering (Industrial, Supply Chain, Logistics), or a related field with a strong emphasis on quantitative analysis is highly preferred. An MBA is a plus.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in physical distribution, logistics, and warehouse management, with a demonstrable track record of success.
• Proven ability to manage budgets effectively and demonstrate strong financial acumen.
• Exceptional analytical and numerical skills with the ability to interpret complex data sets and draw actionable insights.
• Strong understanding of supply chain principles, best practices, and optimization techniques.
• Proficiency in using warehouse management systems (WMS) and transportation management systems (TMS).
• Excellent leadership, communication, and presentation skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and prioritize tasks effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and other data analysis tools.