Area Operation Manager - North Central Super District - Illinois

As the Area Operations Manager at Crescent Electric, you will manage the operational performance of multiple branch locations within a Super District. In this role, you will provide strategic and operational guidance to Branch Managers to ensure consistent execution of company standards related to safety, operational efficiency, customer service, inventory management, and financial performance. You will be accountable for translating corporate operational strategy into executable plans across the region while building a high‑performing leadership team. Additionally, you will partner closely with Super District Sales Leadership, Supply Chain, Finance, and Human Resources to ensure operational capabilities effectively support revenue growth and customer commitments. Regional Operations Leadership Lead and develop Branch Managers and operational teams across the assigned region. Establish clear performance expectations and operational standards across all locations. Translate corporate strategy and operational initiatives into regional execution plans. Ensure consistent implementation of company policies, procedures, and operating disciplines. Drive accountability for operational results through regular performance reviews and operational metrics. Financial & Operational Performance Drive regional financial performance including revenue growth, gross margin, operating expenses, productivity, inventory management, and working capital optimization. Monitor branch performance using KPIs related to inventory turns, service levels, operating cost, productivity, and safety. Develop and manage regional operating budgets and forecasts. Identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency, reduce cost, and improve asset utilization. Safety & Compliance Leadership Champion a safety‑first culture across all branch and warehouse environments. Ensure full compliance with OSHA, DOT, and all regulatory and company safety policies. Conduct regular safety reviews and operational audits to proactively identify and mitigate operational and safety risks. Customer Experience & Service Excellence Ensure branch operations consistently deliver high service levels, product availability, order accuracy, and reliable delivery performance. Collaborate with Sales leaders to support major projects, strategic accounts, and service commitments. Resolve escalated operational issues impacting customers. Identify opportunities to enhance the overall customer fulfillment experience. Supply Chain & Inventory Management Oversee regional inventory strategy to ensure optimal product availability while minimizing excess or obsolete inventory. Partner with Supply Chain and Purchasing to improve forecasting, fill rates, and demand planning. Ensure consistent execution of warehouse, logistics, and delivery processes. Improve inventory accuracy and operational discipline across branches. Talent Leadership & Development Recruit, develop, and retain high‑performing Branch Managers and operational leaders. Drive performance management, leadership development, and succession planning efforts within the region. Build leadership capability at the branch level to strengthen operational consistency and accountability. Foster a culture of ownership, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Continuous Improvement & Operational Excellence Head operational improvement initiatives focused on process standardization, efficiency, and productivity. Utilize operational data and KPIs to identify trends and drive improvement initiatives. Share best practices across branches and partner with other regions to elevate operational performance. Support implementation of new systems, operational processes, and company initiatives. Qualifications Required Bachelor’s degree in Business, Operations, Supply Chain, or related field (or equivalent leadership experience). 5–7 years of progressive operations leadership experience, preferably in electrical distribution, industrial distribution, wholesale distribution, or logistics environments. Demonstrated experience directing multi-location operations or regional branch networks. Strong financial acumen with experience managing operational budgets and performance metrics. Proven ability to develop leaders and build high‑performing teams. Valid driver’s license required. Preferred Experience in electrical distribution, construction supply, or industrial/MRO distribution. Lean, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement training. Experience with ERP, WMS, or distribution management systems. Experience directing operations during periods of growth, acquisition integration, or transformation. Experience working within ISO‑compliant environments, including adherence to documented standards, audit readiness, and continuous improvement processes. Physical Demands Regular travel within the assigned region (approximately 40–60%). Ability to visit warehouse and branch environments requiring use of appropriate PPE. Occasional lifting, standing, or walking in warehouse environments during branch visits. May be required to work more than 40 hours per week. Pay Details The expected rate of base pay for this position is $110,000 – $145,000 annually. The role is eligible for an annual bonus incentive in addition to the base compensation. Total Rewards And Benefits Eligibility for health, dental, vision coverage, 401(k) plan, and flexible spending accounts, subject to plan terms. Eligibility for company‑paid benefits such as life insurance, short‑term disability, long‑term care, and Employee Assistance Program, subject to applicable waiting periods. Excused Absence time off and Paid Time Off (PTO). Company‑paid holidays. Other benefits for which you may be eligible includes supplemental life insurance, hospital indemnity, and accident and critical illness benefits with cancer coverage. Eligibility: Employees are eligible for health, dental, vision, and life insurance benefits on the first of the month following 30 days of employment. Employees who are 21 years of age or older will be automatically enrolled in the company’s 401(k) plan once they achieve 90 days of employment. Equal Opportunity Employer Crescent Electric is proudly an Equal Opportunity Employer. Crescent Electric does not discriminate on the basis of age, color, race, national origin, gender, religion, marital status, disability, veteran, military status, sexual identity or expression, sexual orientation, or any other basis prohibited by local, state, or federal law. #J-18808-Ljbffr Crescent Electric Supply Company