Executive Director, Southeast Chapter

About The Common Market

The Common Market is a mission-driven food distributor operating as a social enterprise. We facilitate the movement of millions of dollars worth of regionally sourced food from family farms to institutions such as schools and hospitals. Our work integrates supply chain management, public health initiatives, and regional economic development. With a presence in four regions, we have established a platform exceeding $250 million, connecting over 100 farmers with more than 500 institutions. We are currently focused on strengthening our core wholesale operations, expanding into new markets, and developing the necessary operational systems for scalability.

The Opportunity

We are seeking an Executive Director for our Southeast Chapter. This leader will be responsible for managing and growing a complex, mission-driven business within a key region. The Southeast is at a critical juncture, with increasing demand from institutions, a strong but misaligned supply base, and a strategic shift towards a more sustainable wholesale model. This role offers the chance to build, lead, and enhance a regional business that generates both revenue and positive impact, while also contributing to the national direction of The Common Market.

Role Overview

The Executive Director is the senior leader accountable for the overall performance of the Southeast Chapter. This includes leading operations, revenue generation, and team execution within a multifaceted regional business. The role demands a balance of operational execution and strategic leadership, with a focus on performance, people, and impact. Daily activities may involve troubleshooting warehouse operations, negotiating with institutional clients, reviewing performance metrics, collaborating with national leadership, and representing The Common Market within the regional food system.

What Success Looks Like (First 12-24 Months)

• Establish consistent and reliable warehouse and delivery operations with high food safety standards.
• Achieve revenue targets and demonstrate measurable growth in institutional sales.
• Cultivate a high-functioning, accountable team with strong frontline leadership.
• Improve the alignment between the farmer supply network and customer demand.
• Develop robust relationships with key anchor institutions throughout the region.
• Make significant contributions to national systems and strategic initiatives.

Who You Are

You are a mission-driven business leader with a blend of operational expertise and strategic vision. You possess experience in managing complex operations, financial oversight (P&L, revenue, costs), and translating strategy into actionable results. You excel at leading teams, fostering accountability while maintaining trust, and adopting a hands-on approach. You are adept at building strong relationships with diverse stakeholders, including farmers, institutional customers, and community partners. A systems-thinking mindset, utilizing data for decision-making, and a deep commitment to regional food systems, equity, and economic opportunity are essential.

Who This Role Is Not For

This role is demanding and not suitable for individuals who prioritize strategy over execution, have limited experience leading operational teams, are hesitant to own revenue and performance targets, prefer to delegate operations entirely without understanding the details, seek a traditional grant-funded nonprofit role, or prefer working independently over collaborating with national leadership and peer regions.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the Southeast Chapter's performance across operations, sales, and financial outcomes, setting clear goals and ensuring consistent execution.
• Oversee warehouse, logistics, and delivery systems, ensuring strong food safety, compliance, and operational discipline, while driving continuous improvement.
• Expand institutional sales by supporting and coaching the sales team to meet targets and building long-term customer relationships.
• Deepen relationships with regional farmers and producers, improving alignment between production and demand.
• Build a culture of accountability, learning, and respect within the team, supporting frontline managers and developing emerging leaders.
• Serve as a visible leader in the Southeast food system, engaging with funders, policymakers, and partners.

Additional Information

This position is based in Atlanta, GA, requiring regular presence at the warehouse. Approximately 20-30% regional travel is expected.