Senior Warehouse Operations Manager

Position Title: Senior Warehouse Operations Manager (Apparel Distribution) Location: Commerce, California Reports To: COO Position Summary The Warehouse Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing all warehouse and distribution center activities for a fast-paced apparel distribution operation in the promotional products industry. Primary responsibility is the oversight of the company's primary distribution center but will also manage the operations of two other DC sites. This role ensures efficient receiving, storage, inventory control, order fulfillment, packing, shipping, and returns processing while maintaining high standards of safety, quality, productivity, and customer service. The ideal candidate will have experience managing warehouse teams in an apparel, fashion, retail, or consumer goods environment and a strong understanding of inventory management, WMS systems, and distribution best practices. Key Responsibilities Warehouse OperationsManage daily warehouse operations, including receiving, put-away, replenishment picking, packing, shipping, and returns processing.Ensure timely and accurate fulfillment of wholesale orders.Monitor workflow and labor allocation to maximize productivity and meet service level agreements (SLAs).Develop and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) to improve efficiency and accuracy.Coordinate inbound and outbound transportation activities with carriers, vendors, and customers.Inventory ManagementMaintain accurate inventory records through cycle counts, audits, and physicalinventories.Investigate and resolve inventory discrepancies, shortages, and overages.Ensure proper storage and handling of inventory.Monitor inventory turns and warehouse space utilization.Manage these activities across all three distribution centers.Manage and maintain all material handling assets.Manage leases and landlord relationships.Team LeadershipLead, coach, and develop warehouse supervisors, leads, and associates.Conduct performance evaluations and establish productivity goals.Manage staffing levels, scheduling, training, and employee development.Foster a positive, accountable, and safety-focused work environment.Safety & ComplianceEnsure compliance with OSHA regulations and company safety standards.Conduct regular safety inspections and training programs.Maintain compliance with company policies, security procedures, and labor regulations.Investigate workplace incidents and implement corrective actions.Process ImprovementAnalyze KPIs such as order accuracy, inventory accuracy, productivity, fulfillment rates, and shipping performance.Identify opportunities for process improvements and cost reductions.Support optimization of Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), RF scanning technologies, and automation initiatives.Lead continuous improvement programs using Lean, Six Sigma, or similar methodologies.Customer Service & QualityEnsure high levels of order accuracy and on-time delivery performance.Resolve operational issues affecting customers, vendors, or distribution partners.Collaborate with Sales, Customer Service, Purchasing, and Finance departments to support business objectives.QualificationsRequiredBachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, BusinessAdministration, or related field, or equivalent work experience.5+ years of warehouse management experience in apparel, retail, e-commerce, orconsumer goods distribution.3+ years of supervisory or management experience leading warehouse teams.Strong knowledge of inventory control practices and warehouse operations.Experience with Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), ERP systems, andMicrosoft Office applications.Strong leadership, organizational, and problem-solving skills.Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple priorities.PreferredExperience in apparel distribution in the promotional products industry.Knowledge of RF scanning, barcode systems, and automated material handlingequipment.Lean, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement certification.Bilingual English/Spanish preferred.Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)Order fulfillment accuracyInventory accuracyOn-time shipping performanceLabor productivityWarehouse capacity utilizationReturn processing turnaround timeSafety performance and incident ratesOperating cost per unit shippedPhysical RequirementsAbility to walk and stand for extended periods.Ability to lift up to 50 pounds occasionally.Ability to work in a warehouse environment with varying temperatures.Ability to operate or oversee operation of material handling equipment.Compensation & BenefitsCompetitive salary: $85,000 - $110,000 annually (depending on experience andmarket)Performance-based bonus opportunityMedical, dental, and vision insurance401(k) with company matchPaid time off and holidaysProfessional development opportunitiesIdeal Candidate Profile A successful Warehouse Operations Manager for an apparel distributor combines operational excellence with strong people leadership. They understand the unique challenges of managing seasonal inventory, SKU-intensive product assortments, wholesale and e-commerce fulfillment, and maintaining exceptional service levels while controlling costs and driving continuous improvement