Chief Executive Officer

Description

The CEO is responsible for protecting company assets while maintaining profitability, stability, and employee well-being.

Company Overview

Down To Earth Distributors is a heritage brand and a long-standing company based in Eugene, Oregon. Established in 1977, we are proud to be in our 48th year of business. Our mission is embedded in our company motto: “Practical Goods for Natural Living.”

We offer a wide-ranging selection of natural and common-sense garden and home products at affordable prices. Our products enrich lives, are kind to the environment, and fulfill basic daily needs.

Ideal Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate will exhibit strong leadership skills with relevant industry, financial and supply chain experience. She/he will:

• Mentor, develop, and lead a diverse team.
• Prioritize relationships over transactions and commissions.
• Ensure that employees have clear goals, tools and training.
• Build a customer relationship culture where employees are vested in the company’s success.
  
  

The CEO will drive company-wide strategy, foster collaboration and ensure organizational alignment to shape the future of Down To Earth Distributors.

Requirements

Key Responsibilities

• Legal Compliance and Risk Reduction
• Ensure timely filing of legal and regulatory documents.
• Monitor compliance with laws and regulations to mitigate risks.
• Mission, Policy and Strategic Planning
• Work with the Board to define values, mission, vision and goals.
• Keep the Board informed about company performance, trends and industry changes.
• Identify and address problems and opportunities, facilitating discussion and policy-making.
• Management and Administration
• Oversee all company divisions and direct operations.
• Lead executive employment decisions and team leadership.
• Promote communication and cooperation across departments.
• Ensure program quality, organizational stability and operational efficiency.
• Act as Trustee and fiduciary for the company’s retirement plan under ERISA regulations.
• Maintain a strong work environment that attracts and retains talent.
• Oversee staffing, professional contracts and salary structures.
• Governance and Board Relations
• Work with the Board Chairperson to fulfill governance functions.
• Ensure the Board remains focused on long-term strategic issues.
• Facilitate Board due diligence and decision-making processes.
• Financial and Risk Management
• Provide regular financial reports to the Board and company staff.
• Oversee financial structure, ensuring stability and sound financial governance.
• Analyze financial results, taking corrective measures as needed.
• Manage insurance policies (e.g. liability, property, casualty, product, vehicle).
• Oversee capital expenditures and workers' compensation claims.
• Ensure compliance with DOT regulations and truck fleet management.
• Strategic Vision and Leadership
• Develop and communicate a compelling viable long-term vision.
• Ensure alignment with market trends and business growth opportunities.
• Foster strategic partnerships and new revenue streams.
• Innovation and Growth
• Champion innovation, digital transformation and product development.
• Identify new business opportunities to drive expansion.
• Lead change management initiatives.
  
  

Required Qualifications

Education and Experience

• 15+ years of leadership experience in complex business organizations.
• Preferred education: advanced degree in business administration, finance, organic agriculture or law.
  
  

Skills And Abilities

• Strong managerial and financial acumen.
• Deep understanding of business operations.
• Excellent communication and leadership skills.
• High emotional intelligence and relationship-building ability.
• Resilient, adaptable and ethical leadership style.
• Strategic thinking with a focus on long-term growth.
  
  

Key Attributes of the CEO

Visionary Leader – Develops and executes strategic plans.

Financial Steward – Ensures financial health and operational efficiency.

Innovator – Encourages creativity and product development.

Relationship Builder – Fosters strong internal and external connections.

Ethical and Resilient – Leads with integrity and adaptability.