Executive Director, Local Food Distributor

Build a Regional Food System That Actually Works The Common Market is not a typical nonprofit. We are a mission-driven food distributor — a social enterprise that moves millions of dollars of regionally sourced food from family farms to schools, hospitals, and other institutions. Our work sits at the intersection of supply chain, public health, and regional economic development. Across four regions, we've built a $250M+ platform connecting over 100 farmers to 500+ institutions. Now, we're entering our next phase: strengthening our core wholesale business, expanding into new markets, and building the operational systems to scale. We are seeking an Executive Director for our Southeast Chapter — a leader who can run and grow a complex, mission-driven business in one of our most important regions. Why This Role, Why Now The Southeast region is at an inflection point. Demand from schools, hospitals, and institutions is growingOur supply base is strong but needs deeper alignment and planningWe are shifting from grant-supported programs to a more durable wholesale modelWe are investing in stronger systems, clearer accountability, and operational excellence This is not a role where you inherit a finished machine. This is a role for someone who wants to build, lead, and improve a regional business that delivers both revenue and impact — and be part of shaping what The Common Market becomes nationally. The Role As 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 operationLeading a cross-functional team (operations, sales, customer service)Owning revenue and financial outcomesEnsuring safe, efficient, high-quality food distributionBuilding strong relationships with farmers and institutional customers On any given day, you might: Walk the warehouse floor to troubleshoot a fulfillment issueMeet with a hospital system to expand a contractReview KPIs with your team and drive accountabilityPartner with national leadership on strategy and systemsRepresent 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 performanceClear ownership of revenue targets and measurable growth in institutional salesA high-functioning, accountable team with strong frontline leadershipImproved alignment between supply (farmers) and demand (customers)Strong relationships with key anchor institutions across the regionMeaningful contribution to national systems and strategy Who You Are You 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 structureAbility to translate strategy into execution and results Team Leadership Experience leading frontline and mid-level managersAbility to build accountability without losing trustA hands-on leadership style — you stay close to the work Relationship Strength Skilled at building trust with a wide range of stakeholders:Farmers and suppliersInstitutional customers (schools, hospitals, universities)Community and funding partners Systems Thinking You understand how supply chains, people, and systems interactYou use data to drive decisions, not just intuition Mission Alignment You care deeply about regional food systems, equity, and economic opportunityYou are motivated by building something that works — not just talking about it Who This Role Is Not For This 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 planningHave not led operational teams Experience limited to policy, fundraising, or program management is not enoughAre uncomfortable owning revenue and performance You will be accountable for hitting targets and making tradeoffsExpect to delegate operations entirely You must understand the details well enough to step in when neededAre seeking a traditional nonprofit Executive Director role This is a commercial operation with mission at its core, not a grant-funded programPrefer independence over alignment You will work closely with national leadership and peer regions Key Responsibilities Lead the Business Own the Southeast Chapter's performance across operations, sales, and financial outcomesSet clear goals and ensure consistent execution Run High-Quality Operations Oversee warehouse, logistics, and delivery systemsEnsure strong food safety, compliance, and operational disciplineDrive 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 targetsBuild long-term customer relationships Strengthen the Supply Network Deepen relationships with regional farmers and producersImprove alignment between production and demand Lead and Develop the Team Build a culture of accountability, learning, and respectSupport frontline managers and develop emerging leaders Represent the Organization Serve as a visible leader in the Southeast food systemEngage funders, policymakers, and partners Qualifications 7-10+ years of leadership in operations, supply chain, food distribution, or similar environmentsExperience managing a P&L and delivering measurable performance outcomesTrack record of leading teams of 10+ staff, including frontline operationsStrong communication and relationship-building skillsExperience with CRM/ERP systems (e.g., Salesforce, inventory systems) a plusDeep alignment with The Common Market's mission and values Location & Travel Based in Atlanta, GA, with regular presence at the warehouse20-30% regional travel Final Thought This 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 teamOwn outcomesBuild something meaningful at scale We'd welcome a conversation. Benefits Compensation & Benefits$130,000 salaryHealth, dental, and vision insuranceSIMPLE IRA with 100% employer matchEmployer-paid life and disability insurancePaid time off and holidaysProfessional development opportunities