DC Operations Manager

Operations ManagerThe Operations Manager serves as the second-in-command within the Distribution Center, partnering closely with the DC Manager to drive operational excellence, team performance, and customer fulfillment. This role leads daily warehouse operations across inbound, outbound, inventory control, and/or fulfillment functions, ensuring safety, productivity, quality, and service targets are consistently achieved.The Operations Manager is a critical leader responsible for developing frontline leadership, executing strategic initiatives, and stepping in to lead the site in the absence of the DC Manager.Essential Duties and ResponsibilitiesOperational LeadershipOversee daily distribution center operations, including receiving, putaway, picking, packing, shipping, and inventory managementDrive execution against KPIs including productivity, order accuracy, on-time shipping, and cost performanceEnsure consistent adherence to standard operating procedures (SOPs) and continuous improvement initiativesPartner with the DC Manager to implement operational strategies and network prioritiesTeam Leadership & DevelopmentLead, coach, and develop a team of supervisors and frontline employees (often 50–150+ associates depending on site)Foster a high-performance culture grounded in accountability, engagement, and recognitionSupport succession planning and leadership pipeline developmentPartner with HR on employee relations, performance management, and workforce planningSafety & ComplianceChampion a culture of safety-first, ensuring compliance with all OSHA and company safety standardsLead incident investigations and implement corrective actionsEnsure alignment with company policies, labor regulations, and operational compliance standardsContinuous ImprovementIdentify and implement process improvements to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance service levelsUtilize data, metrics, and reporting tools to drive decision-makingLead or support Lean, Six Sigma, or similar process improvement initiativesCustomer & Service ExcellenceEnsure customer orders are fulfilled accurately and on timePartner with cross-functional stakeholders (Transportation, Supply Chain, Customer Service) to resolve service issuesMaintain a strong focus on both internal and external customer experienceSite Leadership & Backup CoverageAct as the primary site leader in the absence of the DC ManagerSupport strategic planning, budgeting, and performance reviews for the facilityRepresent the DC in cross-functional meetings and leadership discussionsCompetenciesOperational execution and business acumenLeadership and team developmentProblem-solving and data-driven decision makingCommunication and cross-functional collaborationChange leadership and adaptabilityQualificationsRequiredBachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business, Logistics, or related field (or equivalent experience)5–8+ years of progressive distribution/warehouse operations experience3–5+ years of leadership experience managing supervisors or large frontline teamsStrong knowledge of WMS systems and warehouse operations best practicesProven ability to drive metrics, improve processes, and lead teams in a fast-paced environmentPreferredExperience in high-volume, multi-shift distribution environmentsPowered Industrial Truck (PIT) certificationLean, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement certificationExperience with labor planning and workforce management toolsMulti-site or network-level exposureCommunication & ComprehensionAbility to read, understand, and apply written materials such as policies, procedures, and technical documentation. Able to communicate clearly and professionally, both verbally and in writing, with technical and non-technical audiences.Analytical & Numerical SkillsAbility to work with numerical data and perform basic calculations, including percentages, proportions, and comparisons, as needed to support job responsibilities.Problem-Solving & JudgmentAbility to analyze practical problems, evaluate relevant information, and determine appropriate solutions in situations with limited standardization. Able to interpret instructions presented in written, verbal, visual, or scheduled formats. Demonstrates effective organization, prioritization, and time-management skills.Work EnvironmentFast-paced warehouse environment. Ability to work flexible schedules, including nights, weekends, or peak seasons as needed. Regular walking of the facility floor and occasional lifting (as applicable)Physical RequirementsThe physical requirements described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position, with or without reasonable accommodation. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit; use hands to operate a computer and other office equipment; reach with hands and arms; and communicate verbally and audibly. The employee may occasionally be required to stand or walk and lift up to 40 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, and the ability to adjust focus.Travel RequirementsAbility to travel periodically to distribution centers and company locations throughout the United States.