From The Common Market's posting. “We” and “our” refer to the employer.
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 growing
Our supply base is strong but needs deeper alignment and planning
We are shifting from grant-supported programs to a more durable wholesale model
We 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 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 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 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:
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 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 team
Own outcomes
Build something meaningful at scale
We’d welcome a conversation.
Benefits
Compensation
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
About this listing
LAYIQ is an independent job-discovery service. This listing does not imply a partnership with or endorsement by the employer. Review the original posting for current details and availability.
