Manager Central Operations - White Bear Lake, MN - Full-time

SmarteCarte Brand•White Bear Lake, MN

14h•$95,000 - $125,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Manager of Central Operations is responsible for leading day-to-day operations at Smarte Carte’s primary warehouse and production facility in White Bear Lake, MN. This role oversees all operational functions within the facility, including logistics, production and assembly, quality, inventory, safety, and facilities management. The position requires a hands-on operations leader with strong systems acumen, people leadership capability, and the ability to translate demand, production requirements, and inventory strategy into safe, efficient, and predictable execution. While oversight is currently limited to a single warehouse, the scope of responsibility spans end-to-end operational execution with direct impact on cost, service levels, and customer experience.

Requirements

Minimum of 5 years of experience leading warehouse and/or manufacturing operations
Demonstrated success applying Lean and/or Six Sigma tools in an operational setting
Experience working within ERP/MRP systems (NetSuite experience a plus)
Proven ability to coach, mentor, and develop operations teams
Bachelor’s degree in Operations, Supply Chain, Industrial Engineering, or related field preferred
Lift 50 lbs
Stand for extended periods of time, walk, bend, stoop, push, pull
Lift above head
Keyboard; typing for long periods of time
View computer screen(s) for long periods of time
Work under tight deadlines

Nice To Haves

Experience working within ERP/MRP systems (NetSuite experience a plus)
Bachelor’s degree in Operations, Supply Chain, Industrial Engineering, or related field preferred

Responsibilities

Leadership & People Management Build, lead, and sustain a positive, inclusive, and safety-focused operations culture
Establish clear performance expectations; provide routine feedback and coaching
Conduct annual performance reviews and provide compensation and workforce planning input
Manage staffing levels, schedules, wages, and use of contract labor
Operations Execution Lead warehouse, production, and assembly operations to meet production, quality, and service targets
Ensure adherence to established production, productivity, quality, and customer service standards
Inventory, Production & Systems Maintain working knowledge of BOM structures, production orders, and sales order flows
Partner with planning and inventory teams to ensure accurate inventory data, efficient material utilization, and appropriate purchasing
Develop and maintain processes for the handling, storage, movement, and tracking of raw materials, components, and finished goods
Ensure compliance with company policies and procedures related to receiving, transfers, warehouse management, and shipping
Continuous Improvement Analyze workflows, labor utilization, space constraints, and equipment layout to drive operational efficiency
Lead continuous improvement initiatives using Lean and/or Six Sigma methodologies
Standardize processes and work instructions to improve repeatability and reduce variability
Logistics & Vendor Management Manage domestic and international logistics, including FCL, LCL, air freight, and high-volume small-parcel shipments
Manage relationships with key operations and logistics vendors
Review and approve operational invoices and ensure timely submission for payment
Safety, Compliance & Facilities Maintain a safe and compliant work environment in accordance with OSHA and applicable regulations
Ensure safe operation and maintenance of powered industrial equipment
Serve as primary liaison with utilities and local agencies (fire, safety, health) as required
Oversee facility maintenance and operational readiness