Area Operations Manager

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title: Operations Manager
Location: NJ
Department: Operations

Company Overview:
We are a leading third-party logistics (3PL) provider, offering a range of supply chain solutions to retail and e-commerce clients. Our mission is to provide efficient, reliable, and scalable logistics services that exceed client expectations. We are currently seeking a dedicated and experienced Operations Manager to oversee and optimize the entire operations lifecycle, from inbound logistics to order fulfillment and shipping, ensuring smooth and efficient service delivery.

Job Summary:
The Operations Manager will be responsible for managing and optimizing all operational functions within the warehouse and distribution center. This role requires end-to-end oversight of warehouse productivity, staff management, process improvements, and adherence to quality and compliance standards. The Operations Manager will work closely with various teams to develop and implement key performance indicators (KPIs), evolve standard operating procedures (SOPs) for picking and packing processes, and ensure the efficient scaling of operations as new customers and projects are onboarded. The role requires strategic thinking, strong leadership, and the ability to drive continuous improvement across all areas of the operation.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Warehouse Operations Management:

• Oversee all day-to-day warehouse and distribution center activities, ensuring operational efficiency and alignment with client expectations.
• Monitor and optimize warehouse workflow, ensuring proper utilization of space, equipment, and personnel.
• Coordinate with the warehouse and logistics teams to resolve any operational challenges, including inventory discrepancies, order errors, or delays.
• Ensure all processes comply with health and safety regulations, client specifications, and industry standards.

2. Staff Management & Development:

• Lead, train, and supervise a team of warehouse associates, supervisors, and other operational staff, ensuring adequate staffing levels based on operational needs.
• Develop staffing plans and manage headcount to ensure alignment with workload fluctuations (seasonal peaks, new client projects, etc.).
• Conduct regular performance reviews, set clear goals for direct reports, and offer ongoing coaching and development opportunities to improve skills and productivity.
• Foster a positive, high-performance work environment by promoting teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement.

3. KPI Development & Performance Monitoring:

• Develop, implement, and maintain key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure operational efficiency, accuracy, productivity, and cost-effectiveness.
• Monitor KPIs regularly and generate reports to assess performance against company and client goals.
• Identify opportunities for improvement and work with cross-functional teams to implement corrective actions, streamline processes, and achieve operational targets.
• Regularly review operational data to assess areas of improvement, and propose solutions to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance service quality.

4. Process Improvement & SOP Development:

• Continuously evaluate and evolve warehouse processes, including receiving, inventory management, picking, packing, and shipping, to improve productivity and accuracy.
• Develop, update, and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) for all warehouse functions, ensuring alignment with industry best practices and client requirements.
• Work closely with other departments (e.g., IT, customer service, inventory control) to drive initiatives that improve operational workflows and address emerging challenges.
• Implement best practices for inventory control, damage prevention, and overall warehouse efficiency.

5. Customer & Client Management:

• Partner with the customer service and account management teams to ensure smooth onboarding and integration of new customers, services, and projects.
• Monitor client-specific operational requirements, ensuring adherence to SLAs, KPIs, and compliance standards for all shipments and orders.
• Communicate regularly with clients to assess satisfaction, address concerns, and continuously improve service offerings.
• Ensure that any client-specific requests, such as custom packaging or specialized handling, are incorporated into daily workflows and met without compromise.

6. Compliance & Safety Management:

• Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations, including OSHA standards, safety protocols, and other industry-specific regulations.
• Regularly audit warehouse operations to identify and address any safety concerns, ensuring the health and well-being of all employees.
• Foster a culture of safety by providing training and promoting safe work practices.

Qualifications:

• 5+ years of experience in warehouse or logistics operations, with at least 2-3 years in a management role within a third-party logistics (3PL) or distribution environment.
• Strong understanding of warehouse management systems (WMS), transportation management systems (TMS), and other logistics software.
• Proven experience in developing and maintaining KPIs to measure operational performance.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to manage, motivate, and develop a diverse team.
• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making abilities, with a focus on driving continuous improvement.
• Strong knowledge of inventory management, order fulfillment processes, and warehouse operations best practices.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate across departments and manage client relationships.
• Experience with budget management, cost control, and achieving financial targets.
• Ability to adapt to a fast-paced, dynamic environment and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Knowledge of safety and compliance regulations (OSHA, DOT, etc.) is a plus.

Additional Skills (Preferred):

• Lean or Six Sigma certification.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and other related software tools.
• Experience managing logistics or supply chain operations for retail or e-commerce clients.

IWG is a rapidly growing third-party logistics (3PL) provider serving some of the nation's largest retailers and eCommerce brands. With operations spanning retail distribution, eCommerce fulfillment, transportation, compliance management, and warehouse services, we pride ourselves on delivering exceptional service and operational excellence to our clients.

Company Description

IWG is a rapidly growing third-party logistics (3PL) provider serving some of the nation's largest retailers and eCommerce brands. With operations spanning retail distribution, eCommerce fulfillment, transportation, compliance management, and warehouse services, we pride ourselves on delivering exceptional service and operational excellence to our clients.