Director - DC Operations
About The Position
Lead the operational, financial and cultural launch of a $40M, state-of-the-art automated Omni-Channel Distribution Center. As a greenfield startup, you will directly participate in building setup, systems installation, local leadership hiring and strategic site decisions. Once live, this facility will join AEO’s North American network—which processes 65,000 orders daily and serves 1,000+ stores across 81 countries—holding full P&L and operational accountability for all fulfillment, reverse logistics and support functions. This role demands a visible, culture-first leader who thrives in a startup environment, driving success through frontline engagement, strong team delegation and maximum utilization of advanced automation to hit SLA and cost targets.
Requirements
- People-first, visible and adaptable leadership style.
- Proven ability to thrive in a fast-paced startup environment, build teams and hold leaders accountable
- 10–15 years of progressive leadership in large-scale retail, DTC or Omni-Channel distribution centers, including startup or greenfield facility launch experience
- Hands-on experience overseeing site automation installations and directing operations within modern, highly automated facilities; deep expertise in SLA delivery and production flow
- Proven track record managing $50M+ operating budgets and major capital investments
- Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, Engineering, or equivalent experience
- Willingness to travel as needed
Responsibilities
- Direct the site startup phase, overseeing facility setup, installation and integration of automated systems and local operational strategy
- Recruit, hire and onboard a cohesive leadership team and foundational support staff to drive site readiness
- Make critical, localized decisions on site policies, workflows and vendor partnerships to ensure a seamless launch
- Serve as the visible site leader, prioritizing daily frontline engagement from day one to establish retention, morale and performance
- Mentor your leadership team, delegating authority to empower managers to make decisions and solve operational challenges independently
- Communicate clear site strategy, set shift priorities and cultivate an "Employer of Choice" culture across all shifts
- Lead operations across a highly automated facility, maximizing material handling technology to hit speed and efficiency goals post-launch
- Support peak staffing, workflow execution and support function alignment (HR, LP, IT, Maintenance) to consistently meet or exceed SLAs and Cost Per Unit (CPU) targets
- Maintain a safe, secure and respectful working environment across the site
- Manage the site P&L and operational budget to achieve cost targets and maximize ROI on the $40M facility investment
- Develop long-term labor models, site expansion plans and continuous improvement strategies alongside vendor and engineering partners
Benefits
- Generous Associate Discount
- Casual Dress Code
- Company Events
- health care benefits (including medical, vision, and dental)
- wellness benefits
- 401(k) retirement benefits
- life and disability insurance
- employee stock purchase program
- paid time off
- paid sick leave
- parental leave and benefits
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Director
