Distribution Manager

About the role

Hydraulink Australia is seeking a motivated and hands-on Distribution Manager to lead our Smithfield Distribution Centre. This role involves taking ownership of a critical operation, leading a dedicated team, and driving performance, efficiency, and service standards to support customers across Australia. You will oversee inventory accuracy, warehouse optimization, team leadership, and operational excellence to ensure the efficient flow of products and maintain the high service standards Hydraulink is known for.

Reporting to the General Manager Group Operations and IT, you will collaborate with internal teams (procurement, sales, customer service, and state/branch managers) and external partners (logistics and distribution contracts) to meet performance standards and cost targets while ensuring seamless end-to-end delivery.

Responsibilities

• Manage day-to-day operations of the Distribution Centre, optimizing warehouse performance, improving inventory accuracy, and enhancing workforce productivity.
• Lead warehouse and distribution activities to support branches, distributors, and customers while maintaining high service levels, cost-effective delivery, and on-time performance.
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to ensure performance standards and cost targets are met.
• Manage warehouse reporting and operational data to support decision-making and performance improvement using continuous improvement methodologies.
• Develop and implement strategic initiatives that improve customer experience and drive business results.

Requirements

• Proven experience managing warehouse, distribution centre, or logistics operations within industrial, engineering, manufacturing, wholesale distribution, or related sectors.
• Experience leading a small operational team, with the ability to motivate, develop, and support employees while fostering a culture of continuous improvement, accountability, and high performance.
• Sound understanding of inventory management, warehouse systems, distribution processes, and small-scale manufacturing.
• Excellent planning, organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to engage and build relationships with stakeholders at all levels.
• Proven ability to deliver operational improvements, lead change, and achieve performance targets.
• Demonstrated ability to identify workplace inefficiencies, develop practical 5S improvements, and engage employees in maintaining those standards. Candidates must demonstrate their practical understanding of 5S as part of the recruitment process.
• Australian Residency or valid working rights, a current driver’s licence, and willingness to undertake a pre-employment medical (including drug and alcohol screening) and criminal history check.

Benefits

• Excellent salary package
• Multiple employee benefit schemes
• Great work culture and team spirit
• Free onsite parking
• Full training and ongoing support to help you succeed

About Us

Hydraulink is a leading multinational hose and fittings brand with an extensive network across Australia, New Zealand, and Asia Pacific. Through our combination of company-owned branches, distributors, and franchise partners, we support customers with everything from emergency breakdown services to large-scale hydraulic installations. With over 80 years of industry success, we continue to invest in our people, systems, and capabilities to deliver exceptional service and drive future growth.

Visit us at www.hydraulink.com.au to learn more.