Distribution Center Operations Manager - Rockford, IL

Rugby Architectural Building Products; Rockford (IL); On-site; USD 95,000 - 105,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

401(k) with Match

Paid Time Off

Life Insurance

Disability Insurance

Wellness Programs

Job summary

Rugby Architectural Building Products in Rockford, IL seeks an experienced Operations Manager to lead our warehouse and logistics teams in a fast-paced, safety-focused environment. You will drive continuous improvement, coach staff, and partner with branch leadership to support growth and operational excellence.

The role requires 5–7 years in management, strong organizational and communication skills, proficiency with dispatch systems, and a track record of delivering results.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5-7 years' experience in management, warehouse operations, and logistics, with hands-on leadership.
• Proven ability to plan and execute on directives and manage multiple shift operations.
• Experience with Lean Management Principles and change management techniques.

Responsibilities

• Lead warehouse, delivery, and inventory operations to ensure safety, organization, accuracy and efficiency.
• Drive cultural transformation and accountability across the department.
• Apply Lean and Six Sigma to streamline workflows and improve productivity.
• Manage long-term operational projects from planning through implementation.
• Partner with management to execute operational strategy.
• Coach and develop employees to build a high-performing team.
• Track, measure, and report on operations to drive data-based decisions.
• Identify staffing needs and oversee hiring and transitions.
• Perform other duties as required.

Skills

Leadership

Warehouse operations

Logistics management

Lean management

Six Sigma

Change management

Dispatch systems

Job description

Distribution Center Operations Manager - Rockford, IL

Rugby Architectural Building Products is a wholesale distributor of specialty building products, operating out of 26 branches throughout the United States. Our primary business is non-structural architectural grade building products sold principally to customers who create and produce end-products for the commercial, industrial, retail, residential and institutional markets. (In New Century, KS, Lebanon, TN, and Rockford, IL - we do business as: Olathe Millwork, Warren Brothers, River City Millwork respectfully.)

Position: We are growing and seeking Operations Manager.

As an Operations Manager, you will lead the warehouse and logistics teams to ensure safe, efficient, accurate, and timely operations across a 100,000-square-foot warehouse with approximately $2 million in inventory and a team of 10 warehouse and driver employees. This is a hands-on leadership role that requires active involvement in daily operations and the ability to work in a fast-paced, physically demanding environment. You will coach and develop team members, drive continuous improvement initiatives, and foster a positive, safety-focused culture. Working closely with the Door Shop Manager and Branch Manager, you will identify and implement operational improvements that support the branch’s long-term growth and success.

What’s in It for You:

• Pay: $95,000 - 105,000/yr. dependent on experience
• Shift Times: 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
• Competitive Medical - Dental - Vision
• Corporate Wellness & Longevity Programs
• 401(k) Traditional & Roth with Match
• Paid Time Off & Paid Holidays
• Life Insurance, Short-Term and Long-Term Disability

Should You Apply?

• Minimum 5-7 years' experience with management, warehouse operations, and logistics.
• Ability to strategically plan and execute on company directives.
• Proficient with basic change management experience (Lean Management Principles a plus).
• Ability to manage multiple shift warehouse operations.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Proficiency in dispatch systems and office software.
• Ability to remain calm under pressure.
• Problem-solving abilities.
• Commitment to exceptional service.

Your Day-to-Day:

to excel in this role, you will need to...

• Lead warehouse, delivery, and inventory operations to ensure a safe, organized, highly accurate, and efficient environment.
• Drive cultural transformation using structured change management to build accountability, trust, and team buy-in across your department.
• Apply Lean and Six Sigma principles to streamline workflows and continuously improve productivity.
• Manage long-term, large-scale operational projects from initial planning through full implementation.
• Partner with the management team to align and execute overall operational strategy.
• Coach, train, and develop employees and Leads to build an engaged, high-performing team.
• Track, measure, and report on operations to drive data-based decisions and enforce performance standards.
• Identify staffing needs, manage hiring, and oversee employee transitions to support growth.
• Perform other duties and responsibilities as required.

Pre-Employment Requirements

This position is considered a safety-sensitive role due to the operation of machinery, power tools, material handling equipment, and the handling of building materials.

Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of:

• A background check conducted in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws

Background check results will be evaluated on an individual basis and in relation to the responsibilities of the position, consistent with applicable law.

At Rugby, our goal is to lead the industry! We will accomplish this goal by creating an environment where each team member is challenged to achieve their personal best using their talent, together building a community based on our values of Fairness, Commitment to Excellence, and maintaining Rugby as a Performance Meritocracy.

manufacturing, machine operator, assembly, machinist, assembler, production, warehouse, carpentry, carpenter, wood working, woodworking, lumber yard; logistics; logistics coordination