Division Physical Distribution Manager

Johns Manville
Denver, CO

The Division Physical Distribution Manager is accountable for elevating distribution performance across the Insulation Systems network by driving data‑backed decision making, optimizing warehouse and logistics operations, and strengthening 3PL vendor performance. This role leads through influence rather than direct people management—using analytics, cross‑functional partnership, and governance to standardize practices and raise operational excellence across multiple plants and warehouse locations.


Success in this role is measured by inventory accuracy, network efficiency, cost optimization, reporting maturity, and 3PL performance.


This role may be based at Johns Manville’s World Headquarters in Denver, CO, or at any JM Insulation Systems manufacturing facility.

Inventory & Network Optimization

  • Define, implement, and measure inventory policies that reduce carrying costs, prevent obsolescence, and maintain service levels across all facilities.
  • Improve network flow by executing inbound and outbound logistics strategies that consistently meet cost, accuracy, and timeliness targets.
  • Own inventory capital forecasting and performance reporting, clearly articulating variances and drivers to leadership.

Analytics, Reporting & Continuous Improvement

  • Transform management reporting by introducing advanced Excel‑based analytics, automation, and visualization.
  • Consolidate distribution KPIs across multiple sites; generate clear insights and action recommendations for senior leadership.
  • Lead data‑driven continuous improvement efforts that standardize processes and elevate network performance.

Warehouse & 3PL Performance Leadership

  • Provide operational guidance to warehouse teams and 3PL partners, ensuring alignment to JM safety, space utilization, and productivity standards.
  • Manage 3PL relationships, including onboarding, training/coaching, quarterly audits, and performance improvement plans.
  • Plan and evaluate warehouse footprint needs; contribute to contract negotiations and cost‑reduction strategies.

Cross‑Functional Collaboration

  • Act as a primary liaison between plants, distribution centers, Customer Service, Sales, Procurement, IT, Finance, and other corporate functions.
  • Ensure SAP transaction timeliness, master data accuracy, and alignment with operational processes.
  • Support cross‑business coordination to leverage shared space and improve service levels.

Compliance, Governance & Risk Management

  • Ensure adherence to regulatory standards (import/export, SOX, DOT, HazMat) and JM safety requirements.
  • Conduct cycle count audits, validate inventory practices, and ensure accuracy of vendor invoices and SAP reconciliations.
  • Support special projects involving raw material allocations, network disruptions, or second‑quality sales.

Strategic & Financial Alignment

  • Own AOP planning for warehouse budgets and monthly financial reporting.
  • Recommend network optimization initiatives that reduce redundancy and improve cost‑to‑serve.

Education & Experience

  • Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, Operations, or related field.
  • 7+ years of distribution, logistics, or supply chain experience, preferably in a multi‑site environment.
  • Experience managing or influencing 3PLs and external logistics partners.
  • APICS CPIM/CSCP preferred but not required.

Technical Strengths

  • Advanced Excel skills (modeling, dashboarding, automation, analysis).
  • Strong understanding of inventory management, warehouse operations, and distribution networks.
  • Proficiency with ERP and distribution systems (SAP, WMS, IBP).
  • Ability to build sophisticated reports and convert data into actionable business recommendations.

Leadership & Collaboration Skills

  • Strong influencer who can lead without direct authority across plants, warehouses, and corporate functions.
  • Excellent communication skills—able to tailor information for operators, managers, and executives.
  • Proven ability to drive standardization, process discipline, and performance improvement in a distributed environment.
  • Strong vendor management, problem‑solving, and negotiation capabilities.

Travel & Work Environment

  • 25–30% travel to plant and warehouse locations (heavier travel during Q4 inventories).