Warehouse Operations Manager

About the role

An established, family-owned distribution company is seeking a hands-on Warehouse Operations Manager to oversee distribution, warehouse operations, inventory management, transportation, and safety. This leader will drive operational excellence, improve structure and accountability, and help modernize processes while respecting the culture and experience that have contributed to the company's success.

Responsibilities

• Distribution & Warehouse Operations
  • Lead daily warehouse and distribution activities, including receiving, storage, replenishment, picking, shipping, and delivery.
  • Improve workflow, space utilization, productivity, and operational efficiency.
  • Ensure staffing and scheduling align with business demands.
  • Identify operational bottlenecks and implement sustainable improvements.
• Inventory Management
  • Own inventory accuracy and inventory control processes.
  • Manage cycle counts, physical inventories, reconciliations, and discrepancy resolution.
  • Improve location management, inventory visibility, and material flow.
  • Utilize ERP/WMS systems to drive accountability and performance.
• Safety & Compliance
  • Promote a strong safety culture and ensure adherence to established standards.
  • Maintain employee training, process discipline, and regulatory compliance.
  • Ensure a clean, organized, and professional warehouse environment.
• Systems & Performance Management
  • Support the transition to more structured, data-driven operations.
  • Establish KPIs and reporting for warehouse, inventory, safety, and transportation performance.
  • Develop SOPs and leverage data to drive continuous improvement.
• Transportation & Logistics
  • Oversee delivery operations, fleet activity, routing, and carrier relationships.
  • Monitor transportation costs and identify efficiency opportunities.
  • Ensure compliance with DOT and transportation regulations.
• Team Leadership
  • Lead, coach, and develop warehouse employees and drivers.
  • Establish clear expectations and accountability.
  • Build a culture focused on safety, teamwork, continuous improvement, and operational excellence.
  • Drive change effectively while maintaining employee engagement and trust.

Requirements

• 10+ years of progressive leadership experience in distribution, warehouse operations, inventory management, and logistics.
• Strong hands-on experience managing distribution and inventory control functions.
• Proven success improving inventory accuracy, warehouse productivity, and operational performance.
• Experience utilizing ERP and/or WMS platforms.
• Strong understanding of warehouse operations, labor management, fulfillment processes, and safety standards.
• Experience implementing systems, KPIs, and process improvements.
• Transportation, fleet, routing, and delivery management experience preferred.
• Experience working within a family-owned, privately held, or entrepreneurial environment preferred.