Area Operation Manager - North Central Super District - Illinois

As the Area Operations Manager at Crescent Electric, you will manage the operational performance of multiple branch locations within a Super District. In this role, you will provide strategic and operational guidance to Branch Managers to ensure consistent execution of company standards related to safety, operational efficiency, customer service, inventory management, and financial performance. You will be accountable for translating corporate operational strategy into executable plans across the region while building a high-performing leadership team. Additionally, you will partner closely with Super District Sales Leadership, Supply Chain, Finance, and Human Resources to ensure operational capabilities effectively support revenue growth and customer commitments. PRIMARY DUTIES: Regional Operations Leadership Lead and develop Branch Managers and operational teams across the assigned region . Establish clear performance expectations and operational standards across all locations. Translate corporate strategy and operational initiatives into regional execution plans. Ensure consistent implementation of company policies, procedures, and operating disciplines. Drive accountability for operational results through regular performance reviews and operational metrics. Financial & Operational Performance Drive regional financial performance including revenue growth, gross margin, operating expenses, productivity, inventory management, and working capital optimization. Monitor branch performance using KPIs related to inventory turns, service levels, operating cost, productivity, and safety. Develop and manage regional operating budgets and forecasts. Identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency, reduce cost, and improve asset utilization. Safety & Compliance Leadership Champion a safety-first culture across all branch and warehouse environments. Ensure full compliance with OSHA, DOT, and all regulatory and company safety policies. Conduct regular safety reviews and operational audits to proactively identify and mitigate operational and safety risks. Customer Experience & Service Excellence Ensure branch operations consistently deliver high service levels, product availability, order accuracy, and reliable delivery performance. Collaborate with Sales leaders to support major projects, strategic accounts, and service commitments. Resolve escalated operational issues impacting customers. Identify opportunities to enhance the overall customer fulfillment experience. Supply Chain & Inventory Management Oversee regional inventory strategy to ensure optimal product availability while minimizing excess or obsolete inventory. Partner with Supply Chain and Purchasing to improve forecasting, fill rates, and demand planning. Ensure consistent execution of warehouse, logistics, and delivery processes. Improve inventory accuracy and operational discipline across branches. Talent Leadership & Development Recruit, develop, and retain high-performing Branch Managers and operational leaders. Drive performance management, leadership development, and succession planning efforts within the region. Build leadership capability at the branch level to strengthen operational consistency and accountability. Foster a culture of ownership, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Continuous Improvement & Operational Excellence Head operational improvement initiatives focused on process standardization, efficiency, and productivity. Utilize operational data and KPIs to identify trends and drive improvement initiatives. Share best practices across branches and partner with other regions to elevate operational performance. Support implementation of new systems, operational processes, and company initiatives. QUALIFICATIONS: Required Bachelor’s degree in Business, Operations, Supply Chain, or related field (or equivalent leadership experience). 5–7 years of progressive operations leadership experience, preferably in electrical distribution, industrial distribution, wholesale distribution, or logistics environments. Demonstrated experience directing multi-location operations or regional branch networks. Strong financial acumen with experience managing operational budgets and performance metrics. Proven ability to develop leaders and build high-performing teams. Valid driver’s license required. Preferred Experience in electrical distribution, construction supply, or industrial/MRO distribution. Lean, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement training. Experience with ERP, WMS, or distribution management systems. Experience directing operations during periods of growth, acquisition integration, or transformation. Experience working within ISO-compliant environments, including adherence to documented standards, audit readiness, and continuous improvement processes. PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Regular travel within the assigned region (approximately 40–60%). Ability to visit warehouse and branch environments requiring use of appropriate PPE. Occasional lifting, standing, or walking in warehouse environments during branch visits. May be required to work more than 40 hours per week. PAY DETAILS: The expected rate of base pay for this position is $110,000 - $145,000 annually. The role is eligible for an annual bonus incentive in addition to the base compensation. #LI-CECE Total Rewards and Benefits Crescent Electric's compensation package includes an array of top-tier benefit options, including: Eligibility for health, and dental, vision coverage, 401(k) plan, and flexible spending accounts, subject to plan terms. Eligibility for company-paid benefits such as life insurance, short-term disability, long-term care, and Employee Assistance Program, subject to applicable waiting periods. Excused Absence time off and Paid Time Off (PTO). Company-paid holidays. Other benefits for which you may be eligible includes supplemental life insurance, hospital indemnity, and accident and critical illness benefits with cancer coverage. Eligibility: Employees are eligible for health, dental, vision, and life insurance benefits on the first of the month following 30 days of employment. Employees who are 21 years of age or older will be automatically enrolled in the company’s 401(k) plan once they achieve 90 days of employment. Family Owned. Culture of Quality. Opportunities to Advance. Crescent is transforming and we are on a mission to power the communities we serve through teamwork and relentless customer focus. We have a vision of uncompromising teamwork committed to becoming the industry leader for our employees, suppliers, and shareholders. At Crescent, you will have the opportunity to develop professionally, grow personally and have the flexibility to balance your life's priorities. Let's serve together. Let's power our communities together. Let's become THE industry leaders...together. Crescent Electric Supply Company is proudly an Equal Opportunity Employer. Crescent Electric does not discriminate on the basis of age, color, race, national origin, gender, religion, marital status, disability, veteran, military status, sexual identity or expression, sexual orientation, or any other basis prohibited by local, state, or federal law. Veterans and military spouses are highly encouraged to apply. We recognize and value the unique strengths of the military community in supporting our mission to serve those who have served. Candidates are subject to pre-employment assessments, Motor Vehicle Record review, criminal background checks, references check, and a post-offer drug screen. Crescent Electric is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. As part of this commitment, Crescent Electric will ensure that persons with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations for the hiring process. If reasonable accommodation is needed, please contact View email address on click.appcast.io Crescent Electric Careers Crescent Electric Supply Company is a nationwide leader in electrical supply distribution and solutions, helping to power and connect communities. We serve those to help keep the lights on, the power going and the data flowing. We are family-owned with a family of brands that includes 140+ branch locations in 28 states, and a growing network of distribution centers. In addition to Crescent Electric, our customers are served by: Stoneway Electric in Washington and Idaho Interstate Electric Supply in Idaho and Oregon National Electric Supply in New Mexico Mesco Electrical Supply in Ohio Womack Electric Supply in Virginia and North Carolina Lowe Electric in Georgia and South Carolina At Crescent Electric, you will work with others who show respect and support for one another. We foster a culture where: We care about our teammates in the same way that we care about our customers. Career development is taken seriously - we strive to provide every team member with the opportunity to grow professionally. Leaders inspire, build trust and empower everyone to achieve their best. Join our team and let’s serve together, power our communities together and become the industry leader together.