Store General Manager

About Designer Brands At Designer Brands, we are the proud parent company of DSW Designer Shoe Warehouse, The Shoe Company, and Rubino, operating nearly 675 stores across North America and a billion-dollar digital commerce business. We lead the footwear industry with a diverse portfolio of iconic brands, including Topo Athletic, Keds, Vince Camuto, Kelly & Katie, Jessica Simpson, Lucky Brand, Mix No. 6, Crown Vintage, and others. With expertise in design, production, and sourcing, we create on-trend footwear and accessories, delivered through a robust omni‑channel infrastructure and national wholesale distribution. At Designer Brands, we are committed to fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity, where each employee’s unique perspective contributes to our success. Anchored by our core values of “We Love What We Do,” “We Own What We Do,” “We Do What’s Right,” and “We Belong,” we continuously drive forward together, building a future where everyone can put their best foot forward. The Opportunity At Designer Brands, our distribution centers are the heartbeat of getting the right product into the hands of customers who love our brands. As the DC General Manager, you’ll guide the pace, rhythm, and energy of a highly dynamic environment—one where people, process, and innovation all intersect. This is a role for someone who enjoys solving complex challenges, energizing teams, and building an environment where people feel supported and empowered to do their best work. You’ll lead a large‑scale operation with 3–7 direct reports and partner closely with leaders across our Camuto DC network. This position is based in Westampton, NJ. What You’ll Be Doing You’ll shape the daily experience of the distribution center through clear direction, collaboration, and an unshakeable focus on safety and service. Your work will fall into several key areas: Leading the Operation Set clear expectations for your team and model the leadership behaviors that build trust and accountability. Partner with area leaders to recognize achievements, address challenges, and support continuous improvement. Use KPIs and reporting to guide decisions tied to safety, security, inventory, productivity, and service outcomes. Mastering Systems & Automation Maintain a working knowledge of material‑handling systems and automation by collaborating with IT, Maintenance, and Engineering. Use system data for planning, reporting, exception management, and operational problem‑solving. Support enhancements or reconfigurations of systems and tools that keep operations running smoothly. Improving Processes & Driving Efficiency Identify opportunities to streamline workflows and enhance overall performance. Collaborate cross‑functionally to implement solutions, remove barriers, and support change management. Communicating & Coaching for Success Share timely updates with team members and peer leaders, especially around expectations and service goals. Provide development and guidance in labor management, including: Staffing strategy: balancing direct‑hire talent and agency partners. Performance leadership: tracking and supporting team performance to meet operational metrics. Forecasting: partnering with leadership to plan for inbound/outbound volume and resource needs. Vendor collaboration: maintaining strong working relationships with third‑party partners. Creating a Safe & Supportive Workplace Champion safety throughout the facility and respond quickly to concerns involving people, building systems, or security. Ensure proper use and care of company equipment and tools. Exercise sound judgment to resolve conflicts, make timely decisions, and support team well‑being. Additional Responsibilities Perform other duties aligned with your training and experience, as requested by leadership. What You’ll Need Skills & Knowledge Strong business and operational planning abilities, including negotiation skills. Clear, effective communication skills—both written and verbal. Ability to multitask, organize, and follow up in a fast‑paced environment. Familiarity with financial concepts. Leadership skills grounded in coaching, collaboration, and inclusivity. Working knowledge of distribution processes and best practices. Experience with systems such as WMS, automation tools, conveyor technology, and/or unit sortation. Comfortable using Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook. Ability to work well within a team and lead others with confidence. Ability to remain calm and objective when navigating conflict or uncertainty. Interest in ongoing learning, mentorship, and leadership development. Ability to foster a team culture focused on achieving deadlines together. Experience Requirements Minimum: 9 years of warehouse/distribution management experience OR 5–7 years of related leadership experience with a relevant 4‑year degree Plus: 5+ years in a retail or wholesale distribution environment Education Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Industrial Engineering, Business Administration, Operations Management, or related field preferred High school diploma with the required related work experience accepted Preferred Qualifications Experience: Leading across multiple shifts Leading 5+ direct reports overseeing 100+ associates Supervising both full‑time and temporary teams Working within an automated facility of ~500k sq. ft. Lean/Six Sigma experience—Green Belt or higher preferred Experience with: WMS, WCS, WES Business intelligence/reporting systems Labor Management Systems Timekeeping platforms Extensive exposure to automated facilities and mixed workforce structures Perks and Benefits You’ll Enjoy! Your Sole Well-Being: Our benefits package is crafted with our associates in mind! We support you with benefits like free virtual health care, robust family/fertility benefits, 401(k) w/ match, and more. Explore our offerings at . Stride with Flexibility: We offer hybrid and remote work opportunities, giving you the freedom to stay connected, productive, and inspired—wherever you do your best work. Stepping Up Your Career: Take advantage of training programs, professional development, and education assistance to advance your career with a company that celebrates bold ideas and fresh perspectives. We are Shoe‑Obsessed: Because we know a great pair of shoes can change your day, you’ll enjoy 30% off at DSW & com, plus discounts across our family of brands. #J-18808-Ljbffr