Director of Distribution Operations

THE OPPORTUNITY

The Director of Distribution Operations is accountable for setting and executing the distribution operations strategy to enhance optimal performance for our customers, streamline costs for the Company and cultivate a positive work culture among team members. This role encompasses overseeing relationships and management of all distribution partners and suppliers.

REPORTING STRUCTURE

Reports to the VP of Operations and located in the northern Chicagoland area.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provide strategic leadership to manage, lead and direct the Company’s distribution teams to optimize operations, drive efficiency and achieve operations excellence, thereby establishing distribution as a competitive advantage through continuous improvement initiatives.

• Identify, develop and implement opportunities for reducing distribution costs, managing risks and enhancing quality assurance.

• Establish and uphold key performance indicators (KPIs) focusing on service, quality, cost, and safety, achieving targeted levels consistently.

• Cultivate a safety-oriented culture and work environment.

• Support the P&L by implementing strategies to optimize warehousing and transportation methods, thereby improving budgetary positions.

• Oversee key distribution partners, ensuring robust supplier relationship management for long-term success.

• Coach and develop the warehouse leadership team across multiple multi-language distribution centers.

• Lead initiatives for planning and executing process improvements within distribution operations, to include automation solutions.

• Oversee facilities management of properties supporting the distribution centers, ensuring optimal functionality, safety and compliance with relevant standards.

• Ensure compliance with all federal, state and local employment laws, as well as occupational health and safety regulations.

Primary Duties:

• Collaborate effectively with Inventory Planning, Customer Experience, Product Management, Quality and other functions to meet service, quality and cost objectives.

• Monitor and manage distribution operations workload, setting priorities and adjusting resources in line with peak season business requirements.

• Maintain the accuracy of inventory on-hand balances while implementing an effective cycle counting program.

• Proactively manage warehouse space capacity requirements and utilization, anticipating business growth.

• Conduct comprehensive annual performance evaluations and establish SMART goals that are timely and constructive.

• Undertake any other duties as assigned.

REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor of Science degree in Distribution, Supply Chain, Business Administration, or a related field.

• At least 8 years of experience in distribution operations and facility management.

• Proficiency with Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Systems, with a minimum of 6 years of experience.

• Advanced understanding of distribution automation and lean principles.

• Strong analytical, decision-making and problem-solving skills.

• Thorough knowledge of logistics and distribution/supply chain management.

• Demonstrated success in leading senior-level strategic initiatives.

• Effective communication skills with a proven ability to build relationships at all organizational levels.

• Bilingual fluency in English and Spanish.

• Strong negotiation skills.

• Up to 25% travel is expected.

POSITION BENEFITS

A full range of benefits including medical, dental, vision and life insurance, as well as short-term and long-term disability, 401K, Profit Sharing, paid time off, holidays and reimbursement toward gym membership fees.