Warehouse Operations Manager

Lead Operations. Drive Performance. Deliver Results. Cottonwood Distribution is seeking an experienced and results-driven Warehouse Operations Manager to lead our warehouse, logistics, and distribution operations. This is a high-impact leadership role responsible for overseeing the entire distribution process—from inbound receiving and inventory replenishment to order fulfillment, transportation, and customer delivery. Reporting directly to the Managing Director, the Warehouse Operations Manager will lead a team of operational leaders and play a critical role in driving safety, efficiency, customer satisfaction, and continuous improvement across all shifts. What You'll Do Operational Leadership Oversee end-to-end warehouse and distribution operations Lead inbound receiving, inventory replenishment, order fulfillment, truck loading, and customer delivery functions Develop and execute operational strategies that improve productivity, service levels, and cost efficiency Establish and monitor KPIs to drive accountability and results Ensure seamless coordination between day, night, and logistics teams Team Leadership Directly manage and develop three operational leaders: Day Warehouse Manager Night Warehouse Manager Logistics Manager Coach, mentor, and develop leadership talent throughout the organization Partner with Human Resources on recruiting, onboarding, performance management, and employee development Foster a culture of accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement Inventory & Distribution Management Ensure inventory accuracy and effective replenishment processes Oversee receiving operations, cycle counts, and inventory controls Drive accurate and timely order fulfillment Optimize warehouse workflows and labor utilization Support route planning and delivery execution to maximize customer service and efficiency Safety & Compliance Champion a safety-first culture across all operations Ensure compliance with OSHA, DOT, and company safety standards Lead incident investigations and corrective action initiatives Maintain facility standards, equipment readiness, and operational security Financial & Strategic Management Manage warehouse and logistics budgets Monitor labor, equipment, and operational costs Identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising service or safety Prepare operational reports, forecasts, and performance updates for senior leadership Required Qualifications 5+ years of warehouse, distribution, logistics, or supply chain management experience 2+ years of experience managing managers, supervisors, or multiple operational teams Experience overseeing inbound, outbound, and fulfillment operations Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills Experience utilizing Warehouse Management Systems Proven ability to improve operational performance, productivity, and service levels Strong understanding of warehouse safety and compliance standards Preferred Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business, or related field Experience with DOT-regulated transportation operations Lean, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement experience Experience in food distribution, wholesale distribution, or high-volume warehouse environments Experience with route optimization and delivery management systems Why Cottonwood Distribution? Family-Owned Legacy: Be part of a business with a 60-year quality and customer satisfaction history. On-site Position: Collaborate closely with your team in a hands-on, dynamic environment. Stability and Tradition: Join a close-knit team where your contributions make a difference. Competitive Compensation: Enjoy a competitive salary and benefits package. #J-18808-Ljbffr