DC Operations Leader: Lean, Safety & Excellence

Sr. Distribution Center Operations ManagerThe Sr. Distribution Center Operations Manager reports to the Director of Operations and is accountable for safe, high-quality, and cost-effective end-to-end execution of distribution center operations across one or more functional areas (Receiving/Inbound, Inventory Control, Picking/Outbound, Shipping, Returns, and Value-Added Services). This leader drives performance through disciplined operating rhythms, strong people leadership, and continuous improvement while partnering cross-functionally (Safety, HR, Maintenance/Facilities, Transportation, IT/WMS, and Quality) to deliver service, productivity, and accuracy targets.Essential FunctionsTo perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function.Lead a multi-shift operation; set expectations, coach performance, and build bench strength and succession plans.Own site safety results and culture: ensure compliance with applicable regulations and company standards; lead safety observations, investigations, corrective actions, and daily hazard controls.Establish and manage an operating system with clear KPIs (service level/on-time ship, order accuracy, productivity, inventory accuracy, dock-to-stock, labor cost, overtime, damages, and safety); review performance daily/weekly and drive accountability.Standardize work by developing, implementing, and sustaining SOPs and visual management; ensure consistent execution across shifts and departments.Drive continuous improvement using Lean/Kaizen problem solving and root-cause analysis; prioritize initiatives that improve flow, reduce defects, and lower cost while protecting service.Plan and manage labor to volume (headcount, scheduling, training, and indirect time); optimize labor spend, overtime, and productivity while maintaining engagement and retention.Partner with HR on hiring, performance management, employee relations, and leadership development; build a culture of accountability, inclusion, and continuous learning.Ensure customer commitments are met through strong execution of inbound/outbound processes, shipping accuracy, and inventory integrity; address service failures with structured corrective actions.Oversee equipment and facility readiness in partnership with Maintenance/Facilities; ensure preventive maintenance, 5S/housekeeping, and safe material-handling practices are sustained.Leverage WMS/ERP and reporting tools to manage inventory and execution; champion adoption of standard processes, scanning discipline, and system data integrity.Support annual operating plan and budget execution; monitor expenses in your scope (labor, supplies, damages), and communicate risks, capacity constraints, and improvement roadmap to leadership.Minimum Experience, Education, and CertificationsDemonstrated ability to lead leaders and build high-performing, engaged teams in a high-volume distribution/warehouse environment.Strong safety and quality mindset with experience driving incident reduction, compliance, and consistent standard work.Data-driven operator: comfortable translating KPIs into actions, coaching to metrics, and delivering sustained results.Proven problem solver with structured root-cause analysis skills (A3/5-Why/Fishbone) and a continuous improvement orientation.Excellent communication skills with the ability to influence across functions and levels, including hourly associates through senior leadership.Strong labor planning, coaching, and change-management capability in fast-paced environments with shifting priorities.Working knowledge of WMS processes (receiving, putaway, picking, shipping, cycle counting), inventory controls, and material-handling equipment best practices.Hands-on leadership presence with a bias for being on the floor, observing processes, removing barriers, and developing leaders in real time.Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Operations, Industrial Engineering, Business, or related field (or equivalent experience).5+ years of distribution/warehouse operations experience, including 3+ years leading leaders (managers/supervisors).Demonstrated success improving safety, service, productivity, and inventory accuracy through standard work and continuous improvement.Proficiency with WMS/ERP and performance reporting; strong Excel/Office skills and comfort with operational analytics with strong presentation skills.Ability to work a schedule that may include weekends, nights, and holidays based on business needs.Lean/Six Sigma certification (Green Belt or higher) and experience leading Kaizen events.Experience with automation and material-handling systems (conveyance, sortation, AS/RS) and supporting technology changes.Strong working knowledge of powered industrial equipment (PIT/PIE) operations and training expectations.Budget ownership and cost-to-serve mindset in a high-volume DC.Physical Demands of Essential FunctionsStanding, walking for long periods of time. Warehouse environment, including varying degrees of hot/cold.ADA/ADAAAThe Company will make reasonable accommodations in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and Amendments.J-18808-Ljbffr