Distribution Center Operations Manager

SK FOOD GROUP•Groveport, OH

About The Position

The Distribution Center Operations Manager oversees warehouse operations, including inventory management, order fulfillment, facility maintenance, and distribution center cost management. The role sets and ensures productivity standards, monitors workplace performance, and leads training efforts to develop associates and improve performance. It manages multi-shift receiving, shipping, and inventory operations; leads warehouse personnel; maintains inventory accuracy; and works with internal and external stakeholders to ensure efficient movement and storage of goods. The position also manages the distribution center budget, reports performance KPIs, participates in regulatory and customer audits, and supports food safety, quality, and process efficiency. The role reports to the Plant Director and directly supervises assigned associates, including Warehouse Supervisors.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in logistics, supply chain management, or a related field.
At least 7 years of experience in warehouse or third-party logistics management, preferably in a managerial or leadership role, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Strong knowledge of transportation, warehouse operations, shipping procedures, and inventory control practices.
Leadership and communication skills to manage and motivate a diverse team.
Analytical and problem-solving skills with a focus on continuous improvement.
Ability to negotiate and manage contracts with external service providers.
Intermediate to advanced Microsoft Office skills, particularly Excel, and database management software skills.
Familiarity with logistics software and systems, including warehouse management systems (WMS) and transportation management systems (TMS).
Interpersonal skills to build effective relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
Knowledge of warehouse safety and compliance regulations.
Ability to work a flexible schedule as needed, including evenings, nights, and weekends.
Ability to adapt to competing demands and shifting priorities, handle multiple tasks, meet tight deadlines, and maintain attention to detail.

Nice To Haves

Experience with 3PL and transportation management.
APICS certification is recommended.
Familiarity with Lean or Six Sigma methodologies.

Responsibilities

Develop and implement warehouse safety programs, including in a -15 degree freezer environment, and ensure compliance with safety regulations for employees and powered industrial truck (PIT) equipment.
Manage multi-shift warehouse receiving, shipping, and inventory operations.
Select, onboard, supervise, and mentor warehouse personnel; manage their workload, performance, and professional development.
Develop and implement efficient warehouse procedures to improve productivity, minimize errors, and reduce costs.
Communicate with internal and external customers about product movement, location, timing, and movement of expiring inventory.
Maintain accurate inventory levels, conduct audits, address discrepancies, and achieve inventory accuracy of 98% or higher.
Analyze warehouse data and report on KPIs, including productivity, accuracy, and customer satisfaction.
Work with Scheduling and Production to eliminate customer order shortages.
Optimize space utilization and warehouse layout in collaboration with internal stakeholders.
Maintain relationships with suppliers and vendors to support timely delivery of materials and supplies.
Participate in OSHA, USDA, FDA, customer, and third-party audits.
Provide Sales with information about products nearing expiration to reduce or eliminate expired product occurrences.
Assist Quality Assurance with audits of components for HACCP quality specification compliance.
Recommend warehouse capital expenditures.
Monitor the quality, quantity, cost, and efficiency of goods movement and storage.
Create and manage the distribution center budget and report weekly and monthly performance KPIs.
Supervise assigned associates, including Warehouse Supervisors.
Complete other duties as assigned and maintain regular, predictable attendance.
Complete required training on Good Manufacturing Practices and identifying food safety issues, including temperature control, cross-contamination, sanitation, and line cleanliness.