Director of Operations

Director of Operations

The Director of Operations is responsible for developing high-performing teams, creating scalable and repeatable processes, fostering a culture of safety and accountability, and driving continuous improvement initiatives that enhance customer service, operational efficiency, and employee engagement. This role serves as a critical link between field operations and executive leadership, ensuring that operational strategies are effectively executed throughout the organization, supporting our Vision, Mission, and Values.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

Leadership & Operational Excellence

• Serve as an extension of the Vice President of Operations and the K&M Leadership Team, helping translate strategic priorities into operational execution.
• Provide leadership, coaching, and accountability for Regional Operations Managers to ensure consistent operational performance across all locations.
• Establish and maintain a culture centered on safety, service, teamwork, continuous improvement, and operational excellence.
• Partner with Regional Operations Support to ensure alignment, consistency, and execution across all regions.

Strategic Operations Management

• Drive operational strategy while maintaining visibility and involvement in day-to-day execution across the distribution network.
• Identify opportunities to improve productivity, service levels, inventory flow, cost management, and operational effectiveness.
• Lead the development and implementation of scalable, repeatable processes that support sustainable growth and consistency across all facilities.
• Evaluate current operating practices and implement best-in-class solutions that enhance performance and customer satisfaction.

Talent Development & Organizational Growth

• Develop and strengthen the operational leadership pipeline, including Regional Operations Managers, Warehouse Managers, and future leaders.
• Support recruiting and talent development initiatives that attract, retain, and develop top operational talent.
• Create and promote career path opportunities that encourage employee growth and advancement within K&M.

Performance Management & Business Intelligence

• Establish, monitor, and communicate operational performance metrics and key performance indicators (KPIs).
• Lead the collection, analysis, and presentation of operational data to support decision-making and continuous improvement efforts.
• Hold teams accountable for achieving performance, safety, service, and financial objectives.

Cross-Functional Leadership

• Serve as a liaison between Corporate Headquarters, Hub locations, and Satellite facilities to ensure alignment, communication, and execution of company initiatives.
• Collaborate with leaders across Operations, Sales, Human Resources, Inventory, Safety, and other departments to achieve company goals.
• Lead company-wide operational projects, including research, process design, change management, implementation, and performance measurement.

Culture & Values

• Champion and model K&M's Mission, Vision, and Values in every interaction and decision.
• Promote a servant-leadership mindset that prioritizes people, relationships, customer service, and team success.
• Support company initiatives and perform other duties as assigned.

Responsible for managing and resolving conflict in the work environment by using the company values as a guide. Perform other duties as appropriate and assigned.

Support company goals and uphold K&M Values.

Job Requirements

Leadership Competencies

• Demonstrated ability to lead through influence, develop leaders, and build high-performing teams.
• Strong strategic thinking and business acumen, balanced with a hands-on operational approach.
• Proven ability to manage change, drive accountability, and execute initiatives across multiple locations.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills with the ability to effectively engage employees at all levels of the organization.
• Strong analytical, organizational, planning, and problem-solving capabilities.
• Commitment to servant leadership and fostering a positive, team-oriented culture.

Technical Skills

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, PowerPoint, Word, and Outlook.
• Experience utilizing operational metrics, reporting tools, and data-driven decision-making processes.

Additional Requirements

• Ability to travel approximately 25–50% based on business needs.
• Ability to meet the physical requirements of visiting warehouse and distribution environments, including occasional lifting of up to 75 pounds.

Minimum Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent required.
• Bachelor's degree in Business, Operations Management, Supply Chain Management, Logistics, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum of 7–10 years of progressive operations leadership experience in distribution, warehousing, logistics, or supply chain environments.
• Multi-site leadership experience overseeing regional or large-scale distribution operations strongly preferred.