Distribution Manager

Confidential; Durham (NC); On-site; USD 75,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Confidential, based in Durham, NC, seeks a Distribution Manager to oversee all distribution center activities, align warehouse operations with senior leadership, and ensure safe, efficient, and cost-effective performance.

You will forecast volumes, lead WMS initiatives, optimize space and equipment use, and drive continuous improvement while maintaining regulatory compliance. This role requires leadership, analytical thinking, and strong communication across teams.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or higher in a related field with experience in distribution or logistics.
• Strong knowledge of warehouse management systems (WMS) and GMP requirements.
• Proven leadership and ability to manage teams and drive improvements.

Responsibilities

• Develop and direct programs to ensure efficient and cost-effective operation.
• Forecast work volumes and staffing to meet customer service expectations.
• Lead in the development and maintenance of WMS and processes.
• Evaluate space utilization and maximize capacity and efficiency.
• Monitor performance using LMS metrics and drive productivity.
• Promote teamwork, accountability, and open communication.
• Review procedures and implement improvements for equipment use.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.
• Foster safety culture and secure the distribution operation.
• Develop communication programs across leadership and staff.
• Participate in quality initiatives and continuous improvement.

Skills

WMS knowledge

GMP understanding

Analytical skills

Leadership

Communication

Project management

Time management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business, Logistics, Operations Management, or a related field

Associate degree with a minimum of four years of relevant experience

High school diploma or GED with a minimum of six years of related experience

Job description

The Distribution Manager provides management oversight for all activities within the distribution center. This role serves as an interface and coordinator between warehouse operations teams and senior distribution leadership.

The Distribution Manager is accountable for the safe, efficient, and cost-effective operation of the facility and its equipment.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and direct programs to ensure the efficient and cost-effective operation and utilization of the facility.
• Forecast work volumes and staffing requirements to ensure customer service expectations are met.
• Provide leadership in the development and maintenance of warehouse management systems and operational processes.
• Evaluate space utilization and implement strategies to maximize storage capacity and operational efficiency.
• Utilize Labor Management System (LMS) metrics to monitor performance and improve productivity.
• Foster an environment that encourages teamwork, accountability, and open communication.
• Review operational procedures and recommend improvements to maximize equipment utilization and efficiency.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations.
• Promote a culture of safety and maintain security throughout the distribution operation.
• Develop and implement communication programs that support alignment across leadership, office staff, and warehouse associates.
• Participate in quality initiatives and continuous improvement projects.
• Maintain working knowledge of all warehouse leadership functions to provide operational support and backup coverage as needed.
• Work a flexible schedule and travel as business needs require.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

Candidates must meet one of the following qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business, Logistics, Operations Management, or a related field with a minimum of two years of relevant experience.
• Associate degree with a minimum of four years of relevant experience.
• High school diploma or GED with a minimum of six years of related experience.

Additional Requirements

• Minimum of two years of leadership or supervisory experience.
• Experience in a warehouse, distribution, logistics, or supply chain environment preferred.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Knowledge of inventory management practices and warehouse management systems (WMS).
• Understanding of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), standard operating procedures, and quality requirements.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to make data-driven decisions.
• Ability to evaluate, interpret, and apply information to resolve operational challenges.
• Strong leadership skills with experience coaching, mentoring, and developing teams.
• Effective collaboration, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Project management and continuous improvement experience.
• Excellent organizational and time management abilities.
• Knowledge of distribution and logistics operations.
• Financial acumen, including budgeting and profit-and-loss management experience in a regulated distribution environment.

Physical Requirements

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the role.

The position regularly requires:

• Standing and walking for extended periods.
• Stooping, kneeling, crouching, balancing, and reaching.
• Pushing, pulling, twisting, and lifting materials.
• Frequent use of hands and fingers for handling equipment, materials, and computer systems.
• Occasional climbing.
• Lifting up to 50 pounds in designated work areas.

Must possess vision and hearing capabilities necessary to safely perform duties in a warehouse or distribution environment.

• Warehouse and distribution center environment.
• Moderate to high noise levels.
• Frequent exposure to moving mechanical equipment.
• Exposure to temperature fluctuations and varying warehouse conditions.
• Occasional exposure to airborne particles and other industrial environmental conditions.