Senior Distribution Manager

iRiS Recruiting Solutions; Illinois; On-site; USD 130,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading distribution organization in the Chicago area seeks a senior operations leader to oversee end-to-end distribution operations. This role involves driving process improvements and enhancing productivity while managing multi-shift operations. The ideal candidate has proven experience in high-volume distribution settings, strong leadership skills, and a bachelor's degree in a related field. This opportunity offers significant growth potential and the chance to impact operational performance positively.

Qualifications

• Proven experience leading a high-volume distribution or warehouse operation.
• Track record of hands-on process improvement and continuous improvement execution.
• Strong understanding of DC cost drivers, labor models, and operational metrics.

Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end distribution operations including receiving, pick/pack/ship, and value-added services.
• Drive process improvement across labor planning, workflow design, inventory management, and service levels.
• Identify and execute improvement opportunities that enhance productivity, cost structure, and throughput.

Skills

Process improvement

Leadership

Analytical skills

ERP/WMS platforms

Multi-shift operations

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

SAP

Job description

Get AI-powered advice on this job and more exclusive features.

Base pay range

$130,000.00/yr - $160,000.00/yr

Location

Chicago Area

Overview

We are partnering with a well-established, industry-leading distribution organization that is investing in the next phase of its operational evolution. This role offers significant growth potential for a senior operations leader who enjoys building structure, improving processes, and scaling performance in a fast-moving distribution environment.

What You’ll Do

• Lead end-to-end distribution operations including receiving, pick/pack/ship, and value-added services
• Drive process improvement across labor planning, workflow design, inventory management, and service levels
• Establish and reinforce operating rhythms, KPIs, and accountability across shifts
• Identify and execute improvement opportunities that enhance productivity, cost structure, and throughput
• Partner with cross-functional teams on ERP, systems, and future automation initiatives
• Build, develop, and elevate frontline leadership capability
• Ensure safe, compliant, and high-quality daily operations

What We’re Looking For

• Proven experience leading a high-volume distribution or warehouse operation
• Track record of hands-on process improvement and continuous improvement execution
• Strong understanding of DC cost drivers, labor models, and operational metrics
• Analytical, action-oriented leader who thrives in execution-heavy environments
• Experience working with ERP/WMS platforms (SAP experience preferred)
• Exposure to automation or systems modernization initiatives
• Comfortable leading in multi-shift operations with visible floor presence
• Bachelor’s degree required; supply chain, logistics, or operations background preferred

Why This Opportunity

• Clear runway for expanded responsibility and career growth
• Organization committed to operational improvement and modernization
• Opportunity to leave a tangible, lasting impact on processes and performance
• Backed by an engaged and supportive executive leadership team

Seniority level

Not Applicable

Employment type

Full-time

Job function

Distribution

Industries

Transportation, Logistics, Supply Chain and Storage