Distribution Manager

About the Role

At Milwaukee Tool, we believe our people and culture drive success. The Distribution Center Department Manager is responsible for the safe, accurate, and efficient operation of a defined area within the distribution center, while also supporting other areas to build a fully cross‑trained management team. This role develops its supporting team and drives continuous improvement across the department.

Responsibilities

• Ensure the department provides accurate, prompt deliveries to internal and external customers.
• Provide direction for all department functions: receiving, material movement (including domestic and foreign freight shipments), picking, packing, shipping, supplies purchasing, inventory control, housekeeping, training, hiring, discipline, employee development, and safety in accordance with state and federal regulations and Milwaukee policies/procedures.
• Coordinate with the Continuous Improvement Manager and DC Industrial Engineers to identify, analyze, and justify capital improvements.
• Work with IE and IT to ensure technical aspects (hardware, software, barcode scanners, conveyor controls, printers, and other operational equipment) function properly.
• Maintain department operations within budgetary constraints; analyze costs and implement cost‑reduction measures.
• Maintain activity records (shipments, damages, inventory, manpower utilization) and provide periodic summaries to superiors.
• Provide accurate budget and forecast data.
• Collaborate with other managers and staff to formulate and implement policies, procedures, goals, and objectives for the facility and corporation.
• Lead strategic planning and implementation for the department.
• Foster an environment of continuous improvement to enhance service levels while decreasing costs.
• Evaluate employee performance, recommend disciplinary actions, maintain adequate staffing levels for fluctuating workloads, and prepare performance reviews.
• Maintain department metrics that track performance related to customer service, quality, and cost.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Undergraduate degree in Business, Management, Engineering, or a related field (preferred).
• More than five years of progressive supervisory or professional experience in a distribution or manufacturing environment, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Self‑starter with initiative and the ability to execute tasks with minimal direct supervision.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple and changing priorities simultaneously.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong computer literacy, including experience with current WMS, RF, and ERP technologies.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office.
• Ability to comprehend procedures, systems, and data.

Working Conditions

Production environment.

Benefits

• Robust health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Generous 401(k) savings plan.
• Education assistance.
• On‑site wellness and fitness center, food, and coffee service.
• Additional benefits detailed on the company benefits site.