Distribution Center Manager

Job Summary

The Distribution Center Manager in the thrift industry oversees supply chain operations for donated and secondhand goods. This role ensures that every donation, from intake to final destination, is processed efficiently. Coordinating the movement of goods from donors and donation centers to our stores, warehouses, and recycling partners.

This is a hands-on leadership role that requires close collaboration with warehouse teams, drivers, donation center staff, and store managers to keep operations running smoothly, safely, and sustainably. The Distribution Center Manager is also responsible for fostering a positive, professional team culture that supports strong performance and employee engagement.

Team Leadership

• Recruit and hire warehouse, donation center, and driver/logistics team members.
• Oversee day-to-day workflow across the logistics center, ensuring the team stays organized and on schedule.
• Conduct timely, constructive performance evaluations.
• Coach and counsel team members as needed, enforcing policies and procedures while maintaining a safe, professional work environment.
• Handle discipline and termination, when necessary, in accordance with company policy.

Day-to-Day Responsibilities

• Inventory & Donation Flow: Oversee the intake, sorting, and record-keeping of donated goods, ensuring accuracy and accountability throughout the process.
• Supply Chain & Distribution: Coordinate the movement of donated items from donors and donation centers to our stores/warehouses and on to recycling partners as needed.
• Warehouse Operations: Supervise warehouse staff, optimize storage solutions, and ensure compliance with safety standards.
• Vehicle & Equipment Maintenance: Oversee routine maintenance and repair scheduling for company vehicles, forklifts, and other warehouse equipment to ensure safe, reliable operation.
• Vendor & Partner Relations: Maintain strong working relationships with transportation providers and recycling partners to support efficient logistics operations.
• Budget Management: Monitor the logistics budget, identifying cost-saving opportunities while maintaining operational efficiency.
• Sustainability & Ethics: Implement eco-friendly logistics practices, including waste reduction and responsible disposal of unsellable items.
• Technology & Performance Tracking: Utilize logistics software and data analysis to track performance, identify trends, and drive continuous improvement.
• Compliance & Safety: Ensure operations comply with industry regulations, safety standards, and company policy.
• Customer & Donor Experience: Partner with store managers and donation centers to resolve logistics issues and support a positive donor and customer experience.

What You Bring

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field preferred; equivalent combination of relevant work experience and education will also be considered
• Experience: Proven experience in logistics management, preferably in retail or thrift operations.
• Tech Know-How: Proficiency with inventory management systems, logistics software, and data analysis tools.
• Leadership & Communication: Strong leadership skills to manage teams effectively, with clear communication abilities for vendor negotiations.
• Problem-Solving: Ability to analyze logistics challenges and implement effective solutions.
• Attention to Detail: Strong organizational skills to ensure accuracy in inventory and shipment tracking.
• Adaptability: Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and adjust strategies based on donation volumes and seasonal trends.
• Driving Requirements: Valid driver's license with an acceptable Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) is required, as this role involves regular travel between donation centers, stores, and warehouses across the DFW area to oversee daily operations. A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is not required for this position; however, working knowledge of DOT compliance standards is expected, since this role oversees drivers and company vehicles that may be subject to FMCSA regulations (e.g., vehicles with a GVWR over 10,001 lbs), including medical certification and drug/alcohol testing requirements for those drivers.
• Certification: Forklift Certification required, or must be obtained within 30 days of hire, given this role's responsibility for warehouse equipment safety compliance.

Nice to Have

• Experience with nonprofit thrift operations or sustainable retail logistics.
• Knowledge of recycling and waste management for unsellable items.
• Familiarity with e-commerce resale logistics for online thrift platforms.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) is a plus.

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds at a time.
• Must be able to move through and access all areas of the warehouse.
• Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.

Working Conditions

You may be asked to travel to any of our other donation centers, stores or warehouses within the DFW area to support operations.

Employment Conditions

Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check and drug screening, in accordance with company policy.