Benjamin Escobar is a distinguished executive with over 25 years of experience driving innovation and operational excellence in distribution, logistics, transportation, and new business development. A results-driven strategist with a proven track record across diverse industries, Escobar blends his expertise in operational management with a relentless commitment to fostering growth and efficiency.
A graduate of the University of Illinois with a BS in Industrial Engineering and an MS in Information System Management from Keller Graduate School, Escobar has consistently leveraged his technical acumen and business insight to lead organizations toward achieving ambitious goals. Throughout his illustrious career, he has held pivotal leadership roles, each marked by transformational impact.
As Senior Vice President of Operations and New Business Development at CDI Customized Distribution, Escober oversees the operational and strategic direction of a three-distribution-center network spanning Goergia, Mississippi, and Florida. With a $40 million annual budget under his stewardship, he leads a team of 10 senior executives and 450+ personnel. Escobar excels in optimizing supply chain processes, evidenced by his success in implementing key performance indicators that ensure superior service for renowned clients such as Steak & Shake, Kahala Brand, Fat Tuesday, Checkers & Rally, Captain D’s, Popeyes, Subway and exported product to 30+ Countries.
Previously, at DPI Specialty Foods, Escobar demonstrated exceptional leadership as Senior Vice President of Operations and New Business Development, where he managed a $450 million portfolio and a network of four distribution centers across the United States. His tenure was defined by the development of innovative routing strategies, operational efficiencies, and a focus on client acquisition. Escobar’s efforts culminated in significant business wins, including the successful onboarding of Starbucks Mercato project.
His expertise in operational turnaround and strategic growth was further showcased at Lineage/Maines Paper and Foods, Reinhart Foodservice, and Martin Brower. At these organizations, Escobar held roles of increasing responsibility, where he honed his skills in P&L management, capital expenditure planning, and union negotiations. His ability to navigate complex logistics challenges and drive operational success has earned him a reputation as a thought leader and innovator in the field.
Escobar’s commitment to excellence extends beyond operations. He has been a pivotal player in acquisition strategy, facility expansion, and labor standard optimization. His achievements include implementing cutting-edge technologies like SAP and Telogis, leading process improvement initiatives leveraging Six Sigma methodologies, and developing disaster recovery plans for large-scale distribution operations.
A lifelong learner and mentor, Escobar has earned accolades such as the Six Sigma Green Belt and Kaizen Event recognition. His contributions as a guest speaker at the AIM Nationalist Convention underscore his dedication to advancing industry best practices. A certified HACCP professional and United States Army Reserve veteran, Escobar exemplifies discipline, resilience, and visionary leadership.
Benjamin Escobar’s career embodies a legacy of operational mastery and innovative business development, making him a key driver of success in the logistics and distribution industry.
- Character: Demonstrates unwavering integrity, discipline, and resilience, honed through decades of leadership and military service.
- Knowledge: Possesses comprehensive expertise in logistics, distribution, operational management, and advanced systems implementation.
- Strategic: Excels in driving organizational growth through innovative solutions, operational efficiencies, and strategic planning.
- Communication: Skilled in fostering collaboration, leading cross-functional teams, and effectively negotiating with diverse stakeholders.
