Job Title: Senior Manager, Warehouse & Distribution Location: Richmond, VA
What we're looking for:The Senior Manager of Warehouse and Distribution will lead the operational launch and ongoing excellence of our new Distribution Center. This role will own the end-to-end lifecycle of goods-from initial receiving and P1/P2 requisition fulfillment to final pick/pack/ship logistics. We are looking for a strategic leader who can blend Lean/Six Sigma methodologies with hands-on team building to manage multi-million-dollar inventory and drive high-performance results in a high-growth environment. This role will have 3 direct reports and responsibility for 124 hourly associates.
What you'll be responsible for in this role:- Launch & Operational Excellence: Lead the strategic startup of the new facility; direct all daily receiving, warehousing, and distribution activities to ensure 100% on-time shipping and logistics precision.
- Process & Strategy: Design and implement optimized warehouse layouts and workflows. Drive continuous improvement initiatives to maximize storage density and minimize touches.
- Systems Leadership: Spearhead the integration and optimization of WMS systems. Evaluate and implement future automation, such as robotics or RFID, to scale operations.
- Continuous Improvement Leadership: Lead site-wide Kaizen events and continuous improvement projects to eliminate the "eight waste" (DOWNTIME), specifically focusing on overproduction and unnecessary motion.
- Standardized Work: Develop and maintain an Operational Excellence Playbook, including Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and visual management tools to ensure process consistency across shifts.
- Data-Driven Decision Making: Utilize DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) methodologies and statistical tools to reduce variability in order fulfillment and inventory accuracy.
- Warehouse Layout Optimization: Design and implement high-efficiency layouts using 5S and fixed-location principles to minimize travel distance and maximize picking speed.
- KPI Management: Establish and monitor -focused KPIs, such as Dock-to-Stock time, First-Pass Yield, and Order Cycle Time, using real-time data from the Warehouse Management System (WMS) to improve daily execution.
- Change Management & Coaching: Act as a "Lean Champion," coaching supervisors and front-line associates to identify bottlenecks and suggest process improvements autonomously.
What are the basic qualifications?- Bachelor's degree in supply chain management, Industrial Engineering, or Business, and at least 15 years of training and experience required.
- 10-15+ years of progressive experience in warehouse/distribution, including 5+ years in a senior leadership role. Experience with new facility launches is a major plus.
What are the preferred qualifications?- Preferred 2 years specifically in a Continuous Improvement or Operational Excellence role
- Technical Proficiency: Expert-level knowledge of WMS, ERP systems, and data visualization tools (e.g., Power BI or Tableau)
- Regulatory Knowledge: Deep understanding of OSHA safety protocols and HAZMAT shipping regulations.
- APICS or ISM Certification
- Certifications:APICS (CSCP/CPIM) or Lean Six Sigma Green/Black Belt preferred.
- Communication: Exceptional written and verbal communication skills; ability to present operational data to executive leadership.
- Strong ability to lead teams through organizational change and a "Gemba-first" mindset (managing from the floor, not the desk)
To be a great fit for the role:- An in-depth knowledge and understanding of warehouses, inventory and manufacturing processes and knowledge of MRP is required along with a demonstrated understanding of warehousing best practices, and knowledge of material control.
- Ability to lead people to achieve outstanding results
- Ability to effectively manage time
- This position must demonstrate strong analytical, communication, interpersonal, team development, and technical skills along with the ability to communicate effectively at all levels of management within and outside the company.
- ERP (AS400 preferred), MS Outlook, Excel, Word and Power Point
- Solid math skills. English and Metric System - e.g., units and measurements: length, time, fractions and decimals.
- Ability to inquire, assess, analyze and make key decisions
- Effective problem-solving skills and conflict resolution.
- Able to engage employees to understand their role, utilize level of expertise in various processes and express their value to the organization.
- Able to conduct effective meetings on an on-going basis with all levels of employees.
- Qualified to operate all material handling equipment, including forklifts, scissor lifts, pallet jacks and others.
Physical Demands:- Regularly required to walk, sit and stand for prolonged periods of time.
- Gross manual dexterity (operating a motor vehicle) is also required.
- Ability to reach with arms and hands; bend, kneel, crouch and/or crawl as well as the ability to see and hear.
- Frequently lift and/or move up to 60lbs.
What's in it for you?- Medical, Dental, and Vision
- 401k Retirement Plan
- Flexible Spending
- Paid Holidays
#LI-CW2
The statements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees and are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. Furthermore, they do not establish a contract for employment and are subject to change at the discretion of the Company.
