Pharma Distribution Operations Leader – UAE

Dubai, United Arab Emirates | Posted on 05/26/2026

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

• 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

Education

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics,…