Lead - Distribution Center Operational Excellence
As the Lead DC Operational Excellence, you will be the operational backbone and continuous improvement catalyst across our global Distribution Center (DC) network. Operating within the DC Operational Excellence, you will define standard operating procedures, build and govern the 3PL performance framework, and drive channel-specific operational scalability (Retail, B2B, eCommerce). You will bridge strategic network objectives with ground-level warehouse execution to ensure world-class fulfillment, robust inventory controls, and scalable operations that support rapid brand growth.
Your Mission
- Operational Standards & Process Audits:
- Standard Work & Process Engineering: Define and harmonize global standard operating procedures (SOPs) across all 3PL-operated distribution centers, embedding them into the Audit Framework to ensure global consistency while providing targeted local and regional support for onboarding and solution validation.
- Operational Audits & Compliance: Own the global operational audit cadence and reporting to evaluate process compliance in close collaboration with the regional teams across all network sites, directly feeding audit findings into the continuous improvement framework to ensure learnings are systematically integrated worldwide.
- Inventory Control & Quality Assurance: Implement standardized inventory control procedures (cycle counting, reconciliation, defect tracking) to ensure high inventory accuracy across all facilities.
- 3PL Performance & Network Procurement Support:
- KPI & Governance Framework: Design and enforce a standardized 3PL performance management framework (QBRs, operational scorecards, SLA adherence, cost-to-serve metrics), in order to ensure a cost efficient Premium customer experience.
- RFP & Network Tender Support: Serve as operational support during logistics RFP processes, validating 3PL operational capabilities, process design, resource models, and operational readiness.
- Channel Operations Excellence & Scalability Programs:
- Channel SME (Retail, B2B, Specialty): Act as the DC Ops Excellence Subject Matter Expert for omni-channel fulfillment nuances, leading operational alignment between logistics and sales channel leads.
- Retail Scalability Program: Develop and scale DC capabilities to support expanding retail footprint, store deliveries, and inventory availability.
- B2B & Specialty Run “Care” Program: Lead the design and rollout of specialized value-added services (VAS) and high-touch fulfillment processes for key wholesale accounts and specialty running retail partners.
- Continuous Improvement (CI) & Business Cases:
- CI Framework & Lean Methodology: Lead the global continuous improvement framework (Kaizen, 5S, Six Sigma) across the DC network.
- Business Case Development: Quantify operational opportunities and build robust business cases (ROI, CAPEX/OPEX justification, capacity uplift) for automation, layout optimizations, and process redesigns.
Your story
- Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Logistics, Supply Chain & Operations Management, or a related field (Master's degree preferred).
- Experience: 7+ years of progressive experience in logistics engineering, warehouse operations management, or operational excellence within multi-site distribution networks (apparel, footwear, FMCG, or fast-paced consumer goods).
- 3PL Governance: Proven track record of managing and optimizing multi-facility 3PL partnerships globally or across major geographical regions.
- Continuous Improvement Expertise: Lean Six Sigma certification is a plus (Green/Black Belt) or demonstrated mastery in Kaizen, process mapping, root cause problem solving, and standard work implementation.
- Omni-Channel Acumen: In-depth understanding of multi-channel distribution dynamics across Retail replenishment, eCommerce fulfillment, and B2B wholesale.
- Leadership & Stakeholder Management: Strong cross-functional leadership with the ability to influence senior internal stakeholders, negotiate with external logistics partners, and lead change management initiatives.
- Analytical Mindset: Advanced proficiency in operational modeling, warehouse analytics, WMS/ERP logic, and developing data-backed business cases.
- Proactive Problem Solving: Demonstrated ability to work with high autonomy, consistently diagnosing and mitigating complex operational bottlenecks within dedicated projects and broader work streams.
- Communication: Fluency in English (written and spoken); ability to synthesize complex operational topics into clear executive summaries.
About the Team
Our Global Distribution & Logistics team is the backbone of On's Supply Chain on a clear mission to build the most advanced fulfillment network in the industry. We are a data-driven, action-oriented group that thrives on collaboration and challenges the status quo. We work across continents and functions, partnering with the best 3PLs in the world to deliver excellence and build a resilient, innovative, and world-class supply chain.
Just by the banks of the Limmat you’ll find our largest global hub in Zürich West – On Labs – where you can hike up 12 floors through our custom-built spiral trail.
The great thing about our Supply Chain at On is our adaptable, agile structure. We’re a passionate team constantly looking for originality, pushing the status quo to keep up with On's growth and strong focus on sustainability.
What we offer
On is a place that is centered around growth and progress. We offer an environment designed to give people the tools to develop holistically – to stay active, to learn, explore and innovate. Our distinctive approach combines a supportive, team-oriented atmosphere, with access to personal self-care for both physical and mental well-being, so each person is led by purpose.
On is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating a work environment that is fair and inclusive, where all decisions related to recruitment, advancement, and retention are free of discrimination.
We want to set everyone up for success, so here’s the lowdown on how we hire. Our process is a two-way street – bringing you into our culture, while helping us learn how you think.
Our full process can last about eight weeks from application to offer, because we care about getting it right. These steps explain how we usually do things.
Before you get started, feel free to consider if you want to work with us. Strange question? Well, we give people a lot of space to navigate their day-to-day and that style isn't for everyone. We want you to be passionate about what you do and be sure this is the right fit. Because when skills and passion combine – it creates that 'Wow' moment.