Job Summary:The Director of Operations is responsible for developing high-performing teams, creating scalable and repeatable processes, fostering a culture of safety and accountability, and driving continuous improvement initiatives that enhance customer service, operational efficiency, and employee engagement. This role serves as a critical link between field operations and executive leadership, ensuring that operational strategies are effectively executed throughout the organization, supporting our Vision, Mission, and Values.
Job Duties and Responsibilities:- Leadership & Operational Excellence
- Serve as an extension of the Vice President of Operations and the K&M Leadership Team, helping translate strategic priorities into operational execution.
- Provide leadership, coaching, and accountability for Regional Operations Managers to ensure consistent operational performance across all locations.
- Establish and maintain a culture centered on safety, service, teamwork, continuous improvement, and operational excellence.
- Partner with Regional Operations Support to ensure alignment, consistency, and execution across all regions.
Strategic Operations Management
- Drive operational strategy while maintaining visibility and involvement in day-to-day execution across the distribution network.
- Identify opportunities to improve productivity, service levels, inventory flow, cost management, and operational effectiveness.
- Lead the development and implementation of scalable, repeatable processes that support sustainable growth and consistency across all facilities.
- Evaluate current operating practices and implement best-in-class solutions that enhance performance and customer satisfaction.
Talent Development & Organizational Growth
- Develop and strengthen the operational leadership pipeline, including Regional Operations Managers, Warehouse Managers, and future leaders.
- Support recruiting and talent development initiatives that attract, retain, and develop top operational talent.
- Create and promote career path opportunities that encourage employee growth and advancement within K&M.
Performance Management & Business Intelligence
- Establish, monitor, and communicate operational performance metrics and key performance indicators (KPIs).
- Lead the collection, analysis, and presentation of operational data to support decision-making and continuous improvement efforts.
- Hold teams accountable for achieving performance, safety, service, and financial objectives.
Cross-Functional Leadership
- Serve as a liaison between Corporate Headquarters, Hub locations, and Satellite facilities to ensure alignment, communication, and execution of company initiatives.
- Collaborate with leaders across Operations, Sales, Human Resources, Inventory, Safety, and other departments to achieve company goals.
- Lead company-wide operational projects, including research, process design, change management, implementation, and performance measurement.
Culture & Values
- Champion and model K&M's Mission, Vision, and Values in every interaction and decision.
- Promote a servant-leadership mindset that prioritizes people, relationships, customer service, and team success.
- Support company initiatives and perform other duties as assigned.
Responsible for managing and resolving conflict in the work environment by using the company values as a guide.Perform other duties as appropriate and assigned.
- Support company goals and uphold K&M Values.
Job Requirements:Leadership Competencies- Demonstrated ability to lead through influence, develop leaders, and build high-performing teams.
- Strong strategic thinking and business acumen, balanced with a hands-on operational approach.
- Proven ability to manage change, drive accountability, and execute initiatives across multiple locations.
- Excellent communication and relationship-building skills with the ability to effectively engage employees at all levels of the organization.
- Strong analytical, organizational, planning, and problem-solving capabilities.
- Commitment to servant leadership and fostering a positive, team-oriented culture.
Technical Skills- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, PowerPoint, Word, and Outlook.
- Experience utilizing operational metrics, reporting tools, and data-driven decision-making processes.
Additional Requirements- Ability to travel approximately 25-50% based on business needs.
- Ability to meet the physical requirements of visiting warehouse and distribution environments, including occasional lifting of up to 75 pounds.
Minimum Qualifications: - High School Diploma or equivalent required.
- Bachelor's degree in Business, Operations Management, Supply Chain Management, Logistics, or a related field preferred.
- Minimum of 7-10 years of progressive operations leadership experience in distribution, warehousing, logistics, or supply chain environments.
- Multi-site leadership experience overseeing regional or large-scale distribution operations strongly preferred.
