With over 23 years of executive leadership in logistics, transportation, supply chain management, and operations, Daniel Padilla has built a distinguished career optimizing logistics networks across multiple industries. His expertise spans food service distribution, retail, IT, the service industry, and agriculture. Daniel is known for his strategic leadership, process optimization, and ability to drive operational efficiencies that result in cost savings and improved service performance.
As the Sr. Director of Logistics and Transportation for Select Milk Producers, Daniel leads the movement of over 600 daily shipments, including fluid milk, dry, refrigerated, and frozen goods. He spearheaded the development of the company’s first dedicated fleet, which now transports over 140 daily shipments across the Southwest. His leadership extends beyond operations, as he sits on the Board for a joint venture fleet of assets, demonstrating his strategic influence in the industry. Managing a team of ten employees, Daniel has implemented key performance indicators (KPIs) and hauler scorecards, ensuring visibility, efficiency, and service reliability.
Prior to Select Milk, Daniel played a pivotal role at CSC ServiceWorks as the Director of Route Optimization. He managed the routing of over 1,200 technicians across the United States, successfully optimizing software systems that improved service levels by 15% within 18 months and reduced operational mileage by 1.2 million miles in just six months. His expertise in technology-driven logistics solutions was also evident at Kuebix, a transportation software provider, where he managed logistics for major retailers and developed the food sector logistics network for Weis Markets.
Daniel’s extensive background in food distribution includes leadership roles at SYSCO and Performance Food Group (PFG), where he managed up to 48 distribution centers and implemented freight optimization strategies that saved millions in logistics costs. At Ahold, he revolutionized inbound logistics by establishing the company’s first dedicated fleet, reducing long-haul produce transit times from five days to 3.5 days and implementing a transportation management system (TMS) that improved load efficiency and saved the company $4 million annually.
A results-driven leader, Daniel has consistently driven cost reductions, enhanced service levels, and optimized supply chain processes throughout his career. His strategic approach to carrier negotiations, supplier partnerships, and logistics technology integration has positioned him as a leading expert in the field.
Daniel holds a Bachelor of Business Administration with a minor in Economics from New Mexico State University and a Master of Business Administration in Production and Operations from The University of New Mexico. A multiple-time Crimson Scholar and Dean Scholar, he has applied his academic foundation to real-world logistics challenges, achieving transformative results for the organizations he serves.
Residing in the Dallas-Fort Worth area with his wife, Amber, and their two sons, Brayden and Austyn, Daniel continues to leverage his expertise to drive operational excellence, cost efficiencies, and scalable logistics solutions in the ever-evolving supply chain industry.
Character
Daniel Padilla is a dedicated and results-driven leader who consistently demonstrates integrity, accountability, and a strong work ethic in every aspect of his logistics and supply chain career.
Knowledge
With over 23 years of experience in logistics, transportation, and supply chain management, Daniel possesses deep industry expertise in optimizing freight operations, developing transportation networks, and implementing cost-saving initiatives.
Strategic
Daniel excels in creating and executing innovative logistics strategies that enhance operational efficiency, reduce costs, and improve service levels across large-scale distribution networks.
Communication
An effective communicator and team leader, Daniel fosters strong relationships with stakeholders, negotiates critical supplier and carrier contracts, and mentors his teams to drive success and continuous improvement.
