Executive Director, Local Food DistributorThe RoleAs Executive Director, you are the
senior leader accountable for the full performance of the Southeast Chapter - leading operations, revenue, and team execution across a complex regional business.You are accountable for
performance, people, and impact:
- Running a multi-million dollar regional operation
- Leading a cross-functional team (operations, sales, customer service)
- Owning revenue and financial outcomes
- Ensuring safe, efficient, high-quality food distribution
- Building strong relationships with farmers and institutional customers
On any given day, you might:
- Walk the warehouse floor to troubleshoot a fulfillment issue
- Meet with a hospital system to expand a contract
- Review KPIs with your team and drive accountability
- Partner with national leadership on strategy and systems
- Represent The Common Market in the regional food system
You are both
operator and leader - equally focused on execution and direction.
What Success Looks Like (First 12-24 Months)- Consistent, reliable warehouse and delivery operations with strong food safety performance
- Clear ownership of revenue targets and measurable growth in institutional sales
- A high-functioning, accountable team with strong frontline leadership
- Improved alignment between supply (farmers) and demand (customers)
- Strong relationships with key anchor institutions across the region
- Meaningful contribution to national systems and strategy
Who You AreYou are a
mission-driven business leader - not just an advocate, and not just an operator.
You likely bring:
Operational and Business Leadership- Experience running complex operations (distribution, logistics, manufacturing, or similar)
- Comfort owning a P&L, revenue targets, and cost structure
- Ability to translate strategy into execution and results
Team Leadership- Experience leading frontline and mid-level managers
- Ability to build accountability without losing trust
- A hands-on leadership style - you stay close to the work
Relationship Strength- Skilled at building trust with a wide range of stakeholders:
- Farmers and suppliers
- Institutional customers (schools, hospitals, universities)
- Community and funding partners
Systems Thinking- You understand how supply chains, people, and systems interact
- You use data to drive decisions, not just intuition
Mission Alignment- You care deeply about regional food systems, equity, and economic opportunity
- You are motivated by building something that works - not just talking about it
Who This Role Is Not ForThis role is intentionally demanding. It is not a fit for candidates who:
- Prefer strategy over execution
This role requires daily engagement with operations - not just planning. - Have not led operational teams
Experience limited to policy, fundraising, or program management is not enough. - Are uncomfortable owning revenue and performance
You will be accountable for hitting targets and making tradeoffs. - Expect to delegate operations entirely
You must understand the details well enough to step in when needed. - Are seeking a traditional nonprofit Executive Director role
This is a commercial operation with mission at its core, not a grant-funded program. - Prefer independence over alignment
You will work closely with national leadership and peer regions.
Key ResponsibilitiesLead the Business- Own the Southeast Chapter's performance across operations, sales, and financial outcomes
- Set clear goals and ensure consistent execution
Run High-Quality Operations- Oversee warehouse, logistics, and delivery systems
- Ensure strong food safety, compliance, and operational discipline
- Drive continuous improvement in accuracy, efficiency, and safety
Grow Revenue and Partnerships- Expand institutional sales (schools, hospitals, universities)
- Support and coach the sales team to meet targets
- Build long-term customer relationships
Strengthen the Supply Network- Deepen relationships with regional farmers and producers
- Improve alignment between production and demand
Lead and Develop the Team- Build a culture of accountability, learning, and respect
- Support frontline managers and develop emerging leaders
Represent the Organization- Serve as a visible leader in the Southeast food system
- Engage funders, policymakers, and partners
Qualifications- 7-10+ years of leadership in operations, supply chain, food distribution, or similar environments
- Experience managing a P&L and delivering measurable performance outcomes
- Track record of leading teams of 10+ staff, including frontline operations
- Strong communication and relationship-building skills
- Experience with CRM/ERP systems (e.g., Salesforce, inventory systems) a plus
- Deep alignment with The Common Market's mission and values
Location & Travel- Based in Atlanta, GA, with regular presence at the warehouse
- 20-30% regional travel
Final ThoughtThis role is for someone who wants to
run a real business that delivers real impact.
If you are looking for a role where you can:
- Lead a team
- Own outcomes
- Build something meaningful at scale
We'd welcome a conversation.
Benefits- Compensation & Benefits
- $130,000 salary
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- SIMPLE IRA with 100% employer match
- Employer-paid life and disability insurance
- Paid time off and holidays
- Professional development opportunities
