VP of Operations for High-Growth DTC Lifestyle Brand (US-Based, Remote)

Paired

2d•Remote

About The Position

Our client is a rapidly scaling direct-to-consumer (DTC) lifestyle brand with a global manufacturing and supply chain network and ambitious growth plans. They are looking for an experienced VP of Operations to build the operational foundation required to support the company’s next phase of growth. This is a rare opportunity to work directly with the CEO and take ownership of sourcing, manufacturing, supply chain, inventory, fulfillment, customer experience, and operational strategy. For the right person, this position offers a clear path to Chief Operating Officer. Due to the confidential nature of this search, the company name and further details will be shared only after your profile has been approved by the client for an interview. This is a builder role, not a maintainer role. You’ll own everything outside of marketing—including sourcing, manufacturing, inventory, preorder operations, logistics, fulfillment, customer experience, operational systems, and the operations team. You’ll inherit a lean operation and be expected to design the systems, processes, vendor relationships, and team capable of supporting several multiples of future growth. This is a high-accountability environment. Success requires urgency, ownership, resilience, and a willingness to solve difficult operational problems. If you’re looking for the opportunity to build something meaningful alongside a founder, you’ll thrive here.

Requirements

Proven experience leading Operations for a fast-growing DTC apparel, footwear, accessories, or lifestyle brand.
Personally negotiated and secured Net 60 (or better) payment terms with manufacturers. Candidates should be prepared to discuss the negotiation strategy and results in detail.
Demonstrated success scaling operations during periods of rapid business growth.
Hands-on experience managing overseas manufacturing and supplier relationships.
Strong commercial negotiation experience with manufacturers, freight forwarders, logistics providers, 3PLs, and other supply chain partners.
Experience leading inventory planning, demand forecasting, preorder or made-to-order operations, and operational scaling.
Experience optimizing supply chain costs while improving operational efficiency.
Experience implementing or improving ERP, inventory management, or operational systems.
Strong leadership experience building and managing Operations and Customer Experience teams.
Availability to work primarily during U.S. business hours.

Nice To Haves

International supply chain and cross-border logistics experience is highly preferred.
Existing relationships with overseas manufacturers are a strong advantage.
Willingness to travel internationally as needed.

Responsibilities

Personally negotiate and secure Net 60 (or better) payment terms with manufacturers and strategic supply chain partners to improve working capital.
Lead end-to-end operations across sourcing, manufacturing, inventory, preorder management, logistics, fulfillment, and customer support.
Build scalable operational systems, processes, and infrastructure to support rapid business growth.
Oversee inventory planning, demand forecasting, production scheduling, and preorder execution.
Optimize manufacturing, freight, warehousing, fulfillment, and overall supply chain costs through continuous negotiation and vendor management.
Develop and manage strategic relationships with manufacturers, logistics providers, freight forwarders, and fulfillment partners while ensuring product quality and operational excellence.
Build, lead, and develop high-performing Operations and Customer Experience teams.
Evaluate and implement operational technologies, including ERP and inventory management systems, while establishing reporting dashboards and KPIs.
Support international supply chain operations and cross-border fulfillment initiatives as the business expands.