Distribution Center Operations Manager

Ashley Furniture Industries•Advance, NC

2d•$66,954 - $100,431•Onsite

About The Position

The Distribution Center Operations Manager is the driving force behind our distribution center's success, overseeing multiple departments, leading supervisors, and ensuring everything runs smoothly—on time, within budget, and with safety as a top priority. This dynamic leadership role requires a problem solver who thrives in a fast-paced environment with a knack for leading teams, optimizing operations, and making data-driven decisions. The Operations Manager plans ahead to ensure seamless product flow, cost efficiency, and inventory accuracy while using Lean, Six Sigma, and other methodologies to drive continuous improvement and operational excellence.

Requirements

Bachelor's Degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, Engineering, Operations Management, or related field required
Minimum 3 years of leadership experience in distribution, e-commerce, logistics, or related industry
Proven ability to lead teams and manage resources effectively in a fast-paced environment
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with data-driven decision-making approach
Experience with Lean methodologies and process improvements
Excellent leadership and team-building skills with ability to motivate and develop high-performing teams
Strong communication and interpersonal skills with ability to collaborate across all organizational levels
Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook)
Knowledge of Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) and distribution center operations
Ability to work 2nd shift hours: 5:00 PM - 1:00 AM
Physical ability to walk distribution center floors, climb stairs, and perform facility inspections

Nice To Haves

Master's Degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, or related field, or equivalent experience
Six Sigma, Kaizen, or Lean certifications (Green Belt or Black Belt)
Background in logistics or e-commerce fulfillment operations
Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook) with data analysis capabilities
Ability to adapt to a fast-changing environment and manage organizational change
Experience with SAP, Manhattan, or similar enterprise warehouse management systems
5+ years of multi-departmental management experience in a high-volume distribution environment
Experience with Labor Management Systems (LMS) and engineered labor standards
Background in budgeting, financial analysis, and P&L management
Knowledge of transportation management and freight optimization
Project management experience with capital improvement initiatives
Supply Chain Certification (APICS, CSCMP) or Project Management Professional (PMP) certification

Responsibilities

Guide and develop supervisors to achieve productivity, quality, and safety goals through effective coaching and performance management
Lead, mentor, and develop a team of supervisors and warehouse associates to build organizational capability and drive performance excellence
Conduct performance evaluations and provide ongoing coaching, feedback, and development opportunities to team members
Foster a culture of accountability, safety, and continuous improvement throughout the distribution center
Drive employee engagement and retention through effective leadership, recognition, and career development initiatives
Manage staffing levels and scheduling to meet operational demands while controlling labor costs and maintaining service levels
Plan ahead to ensure seamless product flow, cost efficiency, and inventory accuracy across all distribution center functions
Direct all distribution center activities including receiving, storage, picking, packing, and shipping to ensure on-time order fulfillment
Develop and implement operational strategies to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and optimize throughput
Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) including productivity, accuracy, safety, and cost metrics to drive results
Manage relationships with internal stakeholders including transportation, inventory management, customer service, and retail operations teams
Coordinate with transportation teams to optimize inbound and outbound shipping schedules
Oversee inventory accuracy and cycle counting programs to maintain high levels of inventory integrity
Analyze trends, diagnose issues, and implement smart business solutions based on data insights
Track, analyze, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) including production output, efficiency, quality, and safety metrics
Leverage data analytics to identify bottlenecks, capacity constraints, and opportunities for improvement
Monitor and control departmental budgets, labor costs, and material usage to achieve financial targets
Generate and present operational reports to leadership highlighting performance, challenges, and improvement initiatives
Use Lean, Six Sigma, and other methodologies to enhance processes and drive operational excellence
Implement Lean manufacturing and Six Sigma principles to eliminate waste and drive continuous improvement
Identify, develop, and implement system improvement methods to enhance productivity, reduce costs, and improve quality
Lead cross-functional improvement projects in collaboration with engineering, IT, quality, and other support functions
Develop and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure consistency and quality across all operations
Drive automation and technology adoption initiatives to enhance operational capabilities and reduce manual processes
Work with HR, Finance, Transportation, and other teams to keep operations aligned with company goals and business objectives
Collaborate cross-functionally with retail operations, construction, real estate, design, and finance teams to support store openings and ongoing facility enhancements
Communicate effectively across all levels of the organization to ensure alignment and drive results
Participate in leadership meetings and strategic planning sessions
Conduct safety audits, ensure training, and promote a culture of workplace safety throughout the distribution center
Ensure compliance with OSHA safety regulations, DOT requirements, and company policies across all distribution center operations
Investigate incidents and implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence and improve safety performance
Ensure proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and material handling equipment
Lead safety meetings and promote safety awareness across all shifts