Job Description
Distribution & Operations Lead
Location: Grand Rapids, MI
Shift/Hours: M-F | Typically 6 am-3 pm
Position Overview
A leading organization in the building materials and distribution industry is seeking a hands-on, culture-driven Distribution & Operations Leader to modernize, structure, and stabilize its warehouse operations. This is an impactful change-agent leadership position responsible for managing day-to-day distribution, repackaging operations, and international freight workflows. The ideal candidate balances operational execution with strategic thinking, driving process improvements while mentoring a dedicated team in a high-SKU environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead, mentor, and develop a warehouse and packaging team of 15–20 employees, including two direct supervisors.
- Oversee inbound international freight logistics and outbound shipping operations utilizing regional and national carriers.
- Identify operational gaps and establish structured Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and streamlined workflows.
- Drive continuous improvement and lean initiatives to optimize material flow, safety, and cleanliness.
- Manage a high-SKU inventory environment with complex, high-volume product movement.
- Maintain a visible, hands-on presence on the warehouse floor, working alongside the team when necessary to achieve production and delivery goals.
Required Qualifications
- 5+ years of warehouse, distribution, or operations leadership experience.
- Proven experience directly managing warehouse teams of 15–20+ employees.
- Hands-on experience managing international freight workflows (inbound ocean, air, or drayage).
- Demonstrated experience managing high-SKU, high-volume distribution or repackaging environments.
- Proven track record of implementing lean, continuous improvement, or workflow optimization initiatives.
- Experience building or improving structured SOPs and operational standards from the ground up.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with Agility WMS/ERP or similar distribution management software.
- Operational knowledge or experience with forklifts and hi-lo equipment.
- Formal education or background in supply chain, logistics, or operations management.
- Experience working within a multi-site warehouse or distribution network.
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