Sr. Manager of North America Distribution

Are you inspired by challenging the status quo? Do you thrive in collaborative environments that drive results? If so, Gates could be for you.

Gates is a leading manufacturer of application-specific fluid power and power transmission solutions. We push the boundaries of material science to engineer solutions that continually exceed customer expectations.

Let's simplify it, think belts and hoses. Found in motorcycles, conveyor belts, cars, tractors, blenders, vacuum cleaners, bicycles, & 3D printers just to name a few. Because why not do it all?

WHAT TO EXPECT

As an innovation leader, we look for ambitious, forward thinking, open-minded and well-rounded individuals to join our global team. As a Remote/Hybrid position you will be Sr. Manager of North America Distribution Centers.

This remote role supports distribution operations across the Midwest and Eastern United States. Candidates should reside near a major airport to support frequent travel requirements.

The Senior Manager, North America Distribution Centers is a newly created leadership role responsible for driving operational excellence, execution consistency, and strategic initiatives across Gates' North American distribution network. This role provides direct leadership to Distribution Center Managers and serves as a key change leader driving network optimization, standardization, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Through cross-functional collaboration with operations, supply chain, engineering, HR, finance, IT, and third-party logistics partners, this leader ensures strategic initiatives are successfully implemented while maintaining strong performance in safety, service, productivity, and cost. This role offers the opportunity to influence the strategy, execution, and long-term evolution of Gates' North American distribution network.

Key responsibilities:

• Lead and develop Distribution Center Managers, driving operational accountability, workforce engagement, and consistent execution across the network.
• Ensure distribution operations meet customer, safety, quality, productivity, and cost objectives through performance management and KPI-driven execution.
• Drive network optimization initiatives, including process standardization, system enhancements, and support for distribution center startups, expansions, and transitions.
• Champion continuous improvement initiatives utilizing Lean, Six Sigma, 5S, standard work, and visual management methodologies.
• Foster a safety-first culture focused on achieving zero workplace injuries through proactive leadership, root cause analysis, and corrective actions.
• Partner with site leadership to ensure service excellence, quality compliance, and resolution of operational challenges and improvement opportunities.
• Promote effective use of WMS and related systems while leveraging data and analytics to drive operational decisions and performance improvements.
• Lead labor productivity, cost management, budgeting, and capital planning efforts to support financial objectives.
• Provide oversight and partnership for third-party logistics (3PL) operations, ensuring alignment with service, safety, and operational expectations.
• Coach and develop leadership teams while partnering with Human Resources on talent development, succession planning, and workforce strategy.

ABOUT YOU

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Operations, Engineering, Business, or a related field preferred
• 11+ years of progressive experience in distribution, fulfillment, logistics, or supply chain operations
• 5+ years of leadership experience managing distribution center operations or multi-site teams
• Proven ability to lead operational change and translate strategy into execution within complex environments
• Experience leading multi-site distribution operations and managing geographically dispersed teams across large-scale networks
• Strong background in industrial, manufacturing, or distribution operations
• Ability to travel approximately 50-75% across the Midwest, East Coast, and broader North American distribution network based on operational and project needs
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, financial, and decision-making skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to influence across all organizational levels
• Demonstrated commitment to safety, operational excellence, and leadership development
• Lean, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement certification preferred
• Experience with Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), automation technologies, or distribution center optimization initiatives preferred
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without current or future company sponsorship

BENEFITS

• Full-Time
• Bonus Eligibility
• Medical, Dental, Vision insurance and other voluntary benefit options:
• Benefits begin on the first day of the month immediately following your date of hire
• Eligible for 3 weeks of paid vacation, and 8 paid sick days
• 11 paid holidays
• 401(k): company matching up to 6%
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Employee Discounts

WHY GATES?

Founded in 1911 in Denver, Colorado, Gates is publicly traded on the NYSE. While we might operate in a vast amount of time zones we operate as 'One Gates' and have a common goal of pushing the boundaries of materials science. We invest in our people, bringing real-world experience that enables us to solve our customers' diverse challenges of today and anticipate those of tomorrow.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Gates is an Equal Opportunity and is committed to ensuring equal employment opportunities for all job applicants and employees. Employment decisions are based upon job-related reasons regardless of race, sex, color, religion, age, disability, pregnancy, citizenship, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, genetic information, marital status, or any other consideration defined by law.