Senior Operations Manager

JOB DESCRIPTION

Job Title: Senior Operations Manager Status: Full-Time (Mon-Fri)

Supervisor: Vice President Hours: 8:00am-5:30pm (or as business requires)

Key Job Responsibilities
• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the warehouse, distribution, and logistics functions.
• Develop and track key performance indicators (KPIs) to assess operational effectiveness and implement continuous improvement initiatives.
• Maintain accurate inventory records, monitor stock levels, and implement systems to minimize waste and ensure product freshness.
• Work with procurement to forecast demand based on seasonal trends, customer needs, and market fluctuations to maintain appropriate inventory levels.
• Ensure timely and cost-effective delivery of products to customers, maintaining high service levels.
• Develop and manage transportation and delivery schedules to optimize route efficiency and reduce costs, with customer service being a significant consideration.
• Implement tracking systems to monitor fleet performance and ensure adherence to delivery deadlines and safety guidelines, with customer service being a significant consideration.
• Lead and mentor driver, warehouse, logistics, and operations teams to foster a culture of accountability, efficiency, safety and excellence.
• Hire, train, and develop team members, ensuring they have the necessary skills and resources to perform their roles effectively, with customer service being a significant consideration.
• Conduct regular performance evaluations and implement training programs to enhance employee skills and career development.
• Ensure all operational processes comply with USDA, FDA, state, and local food safety regulations.
• Implement and enforce Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points (HACCP) and other food safety protocols.
• Conduct regular audits to ensure compliance with food handling, storage, and distribution guidelines.
• Work with internal and external stakeholders to maintain high food quality and safety standards, reducing the risk of contamination or foodborne illnesses.
• Train staff in best practices for food safety, warehouse sanitation, and handling of perishable goods.
• Develop and manage the operations budget, ensuring cost control without compromising service quality.
• Analyze financial reports to identify cost-saving opportunities and improve profitability.
• Work closely with finance teams to track expenses, forecast operational costs, and maintain budget discipline.
• Ensure that customer orders are fulfilled accurately, on time, and with the highest level of service.
• Oversee the implementation of warehouse management systems (WMS), inventory tracking software, and logistics optimization tools.
• Develop and implement the overall fleet strategy to improve efficiency and reduce costs while ensuring the highest level of customer satisfaction.
• Evaluate fleet size, vehicle mix and route structures to optimize operations and profitability.
• Manage the fleet department budget, tracking and optimizing expenses.
• Ensure full compliance with DOT, FMCSA, OSHA, FDA, EPA and local transportation laws.
• Implement and monitor fleet safety programs to reduce accidents and liability.
• Create and enforce a driver training and retention program to ensure high standards and reduce turnover.
• Be certified as a "back up" driver for emergency purposes.
• Be a certified user of company powered industrial equipment
• Occasionally lift products weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Participate in safety and drug free workplace programs and training
• Ensure ongoing development of personal leadership, business, governing agency policy updates and customer service skills.

Qualifications
• Bachelor's Degree and/or 20 years of qualified work experience.
• Minimum of 10+ years of operations management experience in food service distribution or logistics preferred.
• Meet DOT and FMCSA guidelines to perform duties as a Non-CDL Commercial Motor Vehicle 26ft Box Truck Driver.
• Ability to perform work requiring frequent bending, stooping, crouching, reaching, grasping, lifting and repetitive motion.
• Strong knowledge of food safety regulations, distribution processes, and supply chain best practices.
• Experience leading and managing diverse teams in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in logistics, inventory management, and warehouse operations software.
• Strong leadership and team-building skills with the ability to motivate and develop employees.
• Excellent problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities.
• High attention to detail and a proactive approach to identifying and resolving issues.
• Strong financial acumen with experience in budgeting and cost control.
• Ability to work under pressure and adapt to changing business needs.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work cross-functionally.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook) and warehouse/inventory management software.