Operations Manager

We're looking for a detail-oriented and execution obsessed Technical Operations Manager to lead operations across production, EDI, logistics, and fulfillment-from factory production in China to final delivery to U.S. retailers. You'll ensure everything runs on time and without surprises.

This role is for someone who naturally spots bottlenecks and fixes them. You enjoy building systems and processes that make things run better, and you're comfortable bringing structure to fast-moving, sometimes messy workflows. You think in timelines, dependencies, and what needs to happen next to keep things moving.

You are both a project manager and operator: someone who can manage complex integrations, lead teams, troubleshoot technical issues, and relentlessly push projects forward without delays. We move fast. Retailers have hard deadlines. EDI doesn't wait. Freight delays cost real money.

If you take ownership, move quickly, and don't let things stall-we'd love to talk.

The Role: Operations Manager

Key Responsibilities:

End-to-End Project & Integration Management

• Own full lifecycle of EDI, ERP, and 3PL integrations from scoping 12 testing 12 go-live
• Build and manage detailed timelines across cross-functional teams and external partners
• Ensure all integrations are delivered on time, fully functional, and scalable
• Act as the primary driver of accountability across internal teams, vendors, and retailers

Production & Supply Chain Management (China 12 U.S.)

• Oversee production timelines from factory PO placement through ex-factory readiness with militant accuracy

• Hold overseas vendors accountable to ensure adherence to production schedules
• Track critical milestones:bulk production, QC, and shipment booking. Get ahead of delays 2-3 weeks before they happen
• Proactively identify and resolve production delays or risks before they impact delivery
• Ensure proper documentation (commercial invoices, packing lists, compliance docs) is completed, everytime

Logistics & Inbound Operations

• Manage international freight from origin (China) to U.S. warehouses/3PLs

• Coordinate with freight forwarders on bookings, transit timelines, and customs clearance
• Ensure goods land on time and are received accurately into WMS/ERP systems
• Monitor inbound SLAs and resolve delays at port, customs, or warehouse level

Fulfillment & Outbound to Retailers

• Oversee order flow from ERP 12 WMS 12 retailer fulfillment

• Ensure all retailer compliance requirements (routing guides, labeling, ASN accuracy) are met
• Drive on-time shipment performance to wholesale partners and marketplaces
• Partner with 3PLs to ensure efficient pick/pack/ship operations and inventory accuracy

EDI & Systems Integration

• Own all retailer EDI integrations end-to-end - onboarding 12 testing 12 go-live 12 optimization.

• Troubleshoot EDI failures, map errors, document root causes, and permanently fix recurring issues.
• Manage integrations between ERP, middleware, and fulfillment systems
• Manage implementation timelines and hold both internal teams and vendors accountable.
• Proactively monitor order flows to prevent delays before retailers see them.

Technical Troubleshooting & Execution

• Act as the escalation point for stalled projects, broken integrations, or operational issues

• Diagnose root causes across systems (EDI, ERP, WMS) and implement solutions quickly
• Be hands-on in identifying why something is broken-not just delegating
• Maintain urgency and accountability to ensure nothing stalls

Team Leadership & Accountability

• Manage and mentor operations, logistics, and/or production team members
• Set clear KPIs and hold team accountable to timelines and deliverables
• Build a culture of ownership, urgency, and precision
• Ensure strong communication across time zones (U.S. + China teams)

Process Improvement & Scalability

• Build SOPs across production, logistics, and EDI workflows
• Identify inefficiencies and implement scalable solutions
• Create reporting dashboards to track project timelines, delays, and performance
• Continuously improve systems and workflows to support business growth

AI Optimization

• Build and deploy AI workflows to optimize across production, logistics, and EDI workflows
• Use AI to reduce manual workload across operations and improve speed + accuracy.
• Use AI to build out vendor scorecards to track key KPIs within existing systems

Project Management (High-Speed Execution)

• Run 8-12 concurrent operations projects with brutal clarity and urgency.
• Maintain a daily/weekly dashboard of red-flags, blockers, and required decisions.
• Be obsessive about deadlines and driving projects to completion.
• Operate like a technical project manager + operations commander.

Success Metrics

• On-time production completion rates
• On-time inbound (factory 12 warehouse) performance
• On-time fulfillment to retailers
• % of EDI/integration projects launched on schedule
• Reduction in operational errors and delays
• Team performance and SLA adherence

Qualifications

Must-Have:

• 5 - 10+ years operations, logistics, EDI, supply chain or systems integration experience.
• Hands-on experience with: SPS Commerce, OpenText, Pipe17, and Netsuite
• Strong technical aptitude (JSON, CSV mapping, API logic, error analysis preferred).
• Experience working with 3PLs and routing guides for major retailers.
• Experience operating in a founder-driven or high-urgency startup environment.

Bonus Skills:

• AI workflow building (ChatGPT, automation tools, RPA, etc.)
• Footwear or fashion ops experience
• Retail compliance or chargeback mitigation
• WMS/OMS optimization experience

Benefits and Perks:
We offer competitive benefits for full-time employees, including Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, LTD, FSA/HSA/Dependent Care FSA, 401(k), and a generous employee discount. We're committed to internal growth, providing meaningful development and career advancement opportunities.

Compensation:
We are committed to fair and transparent compensation practices. Compensation for this position will be determined based on experience, qualifications, and other job-related factors. Additional compensation and benefits may also apply and will be discussed during the hiring process.

Department Azalea Wang Role Operations Manager (AW) Locations Chicago Headquarters Yearly salary $80,000 - $120,000 Employment type Full-time