Senior Distribution Center Manager

Senior Distribution Center Manager – High-Volume Grocery Distribution Location: Minooka, IL A rapidly growing food distribution company is seeking a dynamic, high-capacity leader to run an 800K+ square-foot grocery distribution center. This is a flagship facility with complex operations, multiple departments, and a fast-moving environment that demands strategic thinking, operational excellence, and strong leadership presence. As the Senior Distribution Center Manager, you will own the day-to-day performance of the entire site. You’ll lead DC Operations, Maintenance, HR, Kitchen, Inventory, Quality, Safety, and all administrative functions (dotted-line), ensuring the building runs with precision, efficiency, and a culture of accountability. This role is central to the company’s continued expansion and offers significant visibility to executive leadership. Job Purpose Drive the operational, financial, and cultural success of a major distribution center. You will design and execute operational plans, elevate performance across all departments, and ensure the facility meets aggressive productivity, safety, and quality goals. Essential Duties & Responsibilities Optimize warehouse layout to maximize flow, turnover, and storage efficiency. Lead financial reporting and ensure accuracy across all operational metrics. Design and implement production planning for the entire facility. Coach teams on proper handling, storage, and shipping methods. Analyze inventory trends and recommend actions for slow-moving or excess stock. Ensure procedural compliance and maintain accurate stock-level records. Oversee special and periodic inventories with precision and planning. Investigate discrepancies and implement corrective actions. Set work procedures, schedules, and workflow standards for all departments. Provide clear direction through written and verbal communication. Assign and inspect work for accuracy, neatness, and policy alignment. Standardize processes to improve efficiency and consistency. Build a strong culture, resolve grievances, and maintain workforce harmony. Address errors and complaints with professionalism and urgency. Perform additional duties as needed to support the success of the DC. Supervisory Responsibilities Lead 4–12 managers who oversee departmental supervisors and 50–100 employees across multiple operational units. Drive performance through training, planning, assigning work, evaluating results, rewarding excellence, and enforcing accountability. Design and implement management and operational procedures that elevate the entire site. Minimum Requirements Bachelor’s degree or 3–5 years of related experience/training (or equivalent combination). Bilingual (Spanish) is a plus. Reasoning & Leadership Ability Strong communication skills across all levels of management. Proven ability to lead a diverse workforce. Excellent organizational skills and deep knowledge of DC operations. Team-oriented leadership style with the ability to meet strict deadlines. Physical Demands Ability to lift up to 10 lbs. Extended periods of computer work. Ability to climb stairs within the facility. Work Environment Must be able to work in a large distribution center with varying temperatures.