Summary: The Director of Distribution Center Operations is responsible for leading all aspects of distribution center performance, including safety, service, cost, and team development. This role drives operational excellence across inbound, outbound, inventory control, and last-mile readiness while ensuring alignment with company growth and customer experience goals. The Director will lead large teams, implement process improvements, and optimize network performance through data-driven decision-making and strong leadership presence.
Responsibilities: - Lead day-to-day distribution center operations, including receiving, warehousing, picking, packing, shipping, and inventory control
- Drive safety-first culture and ensure compliance with all regulatory and company standards
- Own P&L for the facility, including labor, transportation, and operational expenses
- Establish and monitor KPIs (service levels, throughput, cost per unit, inventory accuracy) and drive continuous improvement
- Partner with supply chain, transportation, and retail/fulfillment teams to ensure seamless end-to-end execution
- Implement process improvements, automation, and WMS enhancements to improve efficiency and scalability
- Build, develop, and lead a high-performing leadership team (managers, supervisors, and hourly workforce)
- Oversee workforce planning, labor management, and productivity optimization
- Drive a culture of accountability, engagement, and continuous improvement
- Lead peak planning and execution to support seasonal or high-volume demand
- Ensure strong inventory integrity and cycle counting programs
- Collaborate cross-functionally on network strategy, capacity planning, and capital projects
Qualifications required: Education - Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Operations, Business, or related field required
- Master's degree (MBA or similar) preferred
Experience - 8-12+ years of progressive distribution center or logistics leadership experience
- Experience leading large, multi-shift operations
- Proven track record of driving operational improvements and cost reductions
- Experience in high-volume, fast-paced environment (retail, e-commerce, manufacturing, or similar)
- Background managing large teams
Additional Qualifications, preferred: - Experience in retail distribution, home goods, or furniture industry
- Experience with automation, robotics, or advanced material handling systems
- Lean, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement certification
- Multi-site or regional leadership experience
- Experience supporting omnichannel or last-mile fulfillment operations
Work Environment: This position is located in an active industrial manufacturing and distribution center with moderate to high noise levels, temperature variations, and material handling equipment in operation. The role may require extended periods of standing or walking on concrete floors and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as safety glasses and steel-toed boots. The fast-paced environment involves time-sensitive and safety sensitive operations and may include various shift schedules to support production and distribution needs.
Benefits We Offer: - Health, Dental, Vision, Employee Assistance Program
- Paid Time Off; increases with years of service
- Generous Employee Discount on home furnishings
- Professional Development Opportunities
- Tuition Assistance
- Ashley Wellness Centers (location specific)
- 401(k) and Profit Sharing
- Life Insurance
