Director of Distribution

AWI LEASING LLC•Grand Rapids, MI

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Auto-Wares is seeking a proven distribution leader to oversee the performance, capability, and continuous improvement of our multi‑facility distribution network across a six‑state region. The Director of Distribution ensures accurate, timely, and cost‑effective delivery of products to stores and customers while driving operational excellence, developing high‑performing teams, and strengthening service levels across all DCs.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Operations Management, Engineering, Supply Chain, or related field.
5+ years of operations management experience in distribution, logistics, or manufacturing.
Proficiency with MS Office, ERP systems, and WMS platforms.
Ability to travel up to 75% across the region.

Nice To Haves

Automotive Aftermarket experience a plus.
Experience leading multi‑site operations preferred.

Responsibilities

Lead day‑to‑day operations across multiple distribution centers, ensuring consistent execution in receiving, putaway, picking, packing, shipping, and returns.
Establish and enforce standards for productivity, quality, safety, and customer service.
Ensure all facilities maintain high standards of organization, equipment readiness, and inventory accuracy.
Ensure operational processes and performance expectations are consistently applied across all facilities.
Monitor KPIs, identify trends, resolve issues, and implement corrective actions.
Lead, train, coach, and develop Distribution General Managers, Shift Managers, and frontline teams.
Provide direct leadership to DGMs and indirect leadership to all DC teams.
Build a culture of accountability, teamwork, safety, and continuous improvement.
Contribute operational insights to strategic plans and company initiatives.
Develop and execute action plans that improve productivity, quality, and service levels.
Lead cross‑facility process‑improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and strengthen service.
Support annual budget creation and P&L development.
Manage labor, cost control, and operational efficiency to meet financial objectives.
Champion adoption of WMS/ERP capabilities and ensure standardized, system‑driven workflows.
Maintain a safe and compliant work environment aligned with OSHA, DOT, and company standards.
Lead safety training, audits, and corrective‑action programs across all facilities.
Partner with Purchasing, Inventory Control, Sales, Store Operations, and Customer Service to align distribution capabilities with business needs.