Manager - DC Operations

Reporting to the Deputy Director, the Distribution Center Operations Manager provides strategic and daily hands-on leadership for all supervisor and associate activity on the Evening Shift. This role ensures merchandise is processed, fulfilled, and shipped with efficiency, safety, accuracy, and exceptional quality in a high-volume, fast-paced, omni-channel distribution environment.

Responsibilities

• Leadership & Culture:
  • Model AEO Core Values: Lead with Passion, Innovation, Teamwork, People, and Integrity.
  • Champion a culture centered on safety, quality, accountability, and customer service.
  • Serve as a visible, influential leader who models respect, professionalism, and operational excellence.
  • Foster a collaborative, high-engagement environment that strengthens morale and builds a winning team culture.
• People Development:
  • Lead a team of up to 7 Supervisors and over 200 Hourly Associates.
  • Coach, develop, and empower supervisors and associates to achieve high performance.
  • Build bench strength through training, cross-training, and succession planning.
  • Conduct performance evaluations and provide timely, constructive coaching and feedback.
  • Partner proactively with HR and other support partners on performance management, attendance, employee relations, and policy compliance.
• Operational Execution:
  • Responsible for Safety, Quality, Cost, and Throughput for the assigned shift.
  • Forecast labor needs, allocate resources, and respond to production demands to maximize throughput and accuracy.
  • Drive omni-channel fulfillment strategies; collaborate with AE Direct and all DC departments to optimize product flow.
  • Establish, monitor, and analyze production standards, KPIs, and interdepartmental performance goals.
  • Plan and execute strategies to manage seasonal volume spikes and business fluctuations.
  • Protect company assets, including merchandise, equipment, and facility integrity.
  • Manage operational costs in alignment with budget expectations.
• Continuous Improvement:
  • Champion innovation, process optimization, and continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Identify operational gaps and implement sustainable solutions that enhance efficiency and quality.
  • Promote a safe working environment through consistent training, communication, and accountability.
• Other Responsibilities:
  • Actively champion your own professional development by partnering with leadership to develop your needs and career goals.
  • Proactively train, develop, and supervise hourly and exempt employees; effectively lead teams of varying sizes as the site scales.
  • Perform additional duties as assigned.
• Authority:
  • Make decisions regarding product flow throughout the facility.
  • Recommend hiring and/or promotion decisions for exempt and hourly roles.
  • Lead coaching, development, and corrective action processes.
  • Approve expenditures within established guidelines.
  • Ensure safety is paramount in all aspects of the operation and site.
  • Using good judgement, act in the best interest of the company.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, Logistics, or related field; Master’s degree preferred.
• Minimum 3 years of leadership experience in distribution, manufacturing, retail operations, or high-volume processing; omni-channel or e-commerce experience strongly preferred.
• Proven ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Exceptional communication, leadership, and planning skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with a high sense of urgency.
• Proficiency in Google Workspace, AI-enabled tools, and general computer applications.
• Experience with WMS/WCS systems is a plus.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred.
• Ability to travel as needed.
• A strategic, innovative, objective, people-focused, and highly collaborative leader with a sense of humor and a passion for developing others.
• Demonstrated flexibility to support multiple shifts or departments as needed.

Benefits

• Subject to eligibility requirements, associates may receive:
  • Health care benefits (including medical, vision, and dental).
  • Wellness benefits.
  • 401(k) retirement benefits.
  • Life and disability insurance.
  • Employee stock purchase program.
  • Paid time off, paid sick leave, and parental leave and benefits.
• Paid Time Off, paid sick leave, and holiday pay vary by job level and type, job location, employment classification (part-time or full-time / exempt or non-exempt), and years of service.
• AEO may also provide discretionary bonuses and other incentives at its discretion.

About Us

American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. (NYSE: AEO) is a leading global specialty retailer with a portfolio of beloved apparel brands including American Eagle, Aerie, OFFL/NE by Aerie, Todd Snyder and Unsubscribed. Rooted in optimism, inclusivity and authenticity, AEO’s brands empower every customer to celebrate their unique personal style by offering casual, comfortable, timeless outfitting and high-quality products that are made to last. In addition to a robust e-commerce business, we operate stores in the United States, Canada and Mexico, with merchandise available in more than 30 countries through a global network of license partners.

At AEO, we believe in the power of our people and our brands. Our Better Together culture creates a mutual desire to succeed—inspiring our community to excel, while driving future growth for the business and associates. Through experience, exposure and education we empower associates to build their unique career journey. Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Access at AEO: We remain committed to building an inclusive culture that is welcoming and fosters a sense of belonging for everyone.

Full-time position located in Hazle Township, PA, United States.