Director of Operations and Excellence

About Williams-Sonoma DC - Olive Branch, MS Founded in 1956, Williams-Sonoma has evolved from a singular store in Sonoma, CA, into one of the largest retail giants in the country, encompassing well-known brands such as Williams-Sonoma, Pottery Barn, and West Elm. Our Distribution Centers play a crucial role in connecting factories with our retail, online, and mail-order customers worldwide. If your background includes distribution, manufacturing, engineering, transportation, finance, human resources, or home delivery, and you're seeking growth and advancement opportunities, our Supply Chain Organization may be the perfect fit for you. We are on the lookout for a Director who has successfully led large-scale operations, understands what exceptional execution entails, and is eager to elevate an already high-performing facility. This role requires a leader who embodies operational rigor, people leadership, and strategic thinking —someone capable of achieving results now while continuously improving our operations through process discipline, technology, and a commitment to innovation. Your excitement for this opportunity will stem from the following responsibilities: Own the Operation. Deliver Results: Lead the full facility performance across safety, quality, service, cost, and associate engagement. Translate strategy into daily execution and measurable outcomes by driving the operating plan. Maintain a high-performance standard by establishing clear expectations, inspecting performance, and taking decisive actions to close gaps. Ensure reliable execution at scale, especially during peak and high-volume periods. Build and Lead a High-Performing Leadership Team: Develop, coach, and elevate a strong operations leadership team capable of driving execution independently. Create a culture of accountability, ownership, and continuous improvement. Collaborate with HR to enhance bench strength, succession plans, and leadership capability across the operation. Drive Operational Excellence and Continuous Improvement: Identify and execute opportunities to improve productivity, throughput, and cost structures. Lead process standardization and performance management disciplines across the facility. Foster a culture that challenges the status quo and consistently seeks better operational methods. Lead Through Change and Innovation: Champion the adoption of new technologies, including automation, system enhancements, and data-driven tools. Oversee large-scale operational initiatives, including facility changes and process redesign. Ensure ongoing evolution of operations to meet future network and customer needs. Operate with Business Acumen: Manage the facility P&L, clearly linking operational decisions to financial outcomes. Evaluate trade-offs to balance service, cost, and long-term scalability. Engage with internal and external stakeholders, including vendors and third-party providers, to achieve results. Lead Integrated Distribution + Light Manufacturing Operations: Oversee both traditional distribution and light manufacturing/person personalization operations (e.g., engraving, monogramming, assembly) within the facility. Ensure seamless integration between production and fulfillment to meet customer-specific customization requirements at scale. Drive throughput, quality, and consistency in personalized product workflows, balancing speed with craftsmanship. Implement process controls and performance standards to support high-mix, variable-demand production environments. Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain, Engineering, or related field, with 8 - 10 years of progressive leadership experience in distribution or logistics. In lieu of a degree, consider candidates with 9-12 years of relevant distribution leadership experience. This is an onsite and in-office role. Proven success leading people, processes, and performance in complex operations. Experience with WMS systems and inventory control processes. Experience managing third-party partners and service providers. Preferred Qualifications: MBA or advanced degree in a related field. Experience leading integrated distribution and light manufacturing operations. Expertise in Lean, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement methodologies. Familiarity with automation, advanced systems, or new technology implementation. Background in high-volume retail, big box, or furniture distribution environments. Experience leading through growth, expansion, or network evolution. Physical Requirements: Able to bend, reach, squat, climb stairs/ladders, stand and walk throughout the facility for extended periods. Able to lift or carry heavy objects or materials up to 65 pounds. Why Join Us? Enjoy a generous discount on all Williams-Sonoma, Inc. brand products. Participate in 401(k) plan and other investment opportunities. Benefit from paid vacations, paid holidays (in some locations), Employee Assistance Programs, Time Off to Volunteer, and Matching Gifts Community Service Program. Access comprehensive health benefits, including dental and vision insurance, legal protections, and pet insurance. For more information on our benefits, please visit MyWSIBenefits.com. Discover our Supply Chain culture and regional associate events. #J-18808-Ljbffr