Distribution Manager

Position Summary: 

We are seeking an experienced, hands-on Distribution Manager to lead the launch and day-to-day operations of our new warehouse facility focused on auto collision parts distribution. This role is ideal  for a self-starter with deep industry knowledge who excels in fast-paced, start-up environments. The Distribution Manager will be responsible for building out operational workflows, assembling a high performance team, and ensuring efficient, timely, and accurate delivery of collision parts to our  customers. 

Key Responsibilities: 

• Lead the build-out and start-up of a new warehouse facility, including space layout, racking systems, material handling equipment, and systems implementation. 
• Oversee daily warehouse operations for receiving, inventory management, order picking, packing, shipping, and returns. 
• Develop processes tailored to handling large, bulky, and fragile auto parts (e.g., bumpers, hoods, fenders, headlights). 
• Ensure proper inventory control, bin location integrity, and system accuracy using an Enterprise Resource Management System (ERP) and Warehouse Management Systems (WMS).
• Recruit, train, and lead a strong team of warehouse associates, supervisors, delivery drivers and  support staff. 
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Compliance, Real Estate, Finance, Leasing, and Technology teams to drive strategic alignment. 
• Maintain a strong safety culture and enforce OSHA and DOT compliance regulations.
• Monitor and report on key performance indicators (KPIs), identifying areas for cost, speed, and  quality improvements. 
• Work closely with purchasing and customer service teams to ensure fulfillment accuracy and  optimal customer satisfaction. 
• Manage vendor relationships and coordinate third-party logistics (3PL) or freight providers as  needed. 
• Supervise all aspects of delivery driver operations, including morning departure procedures,  route execution, delivery accuracy, and return-to-base protocols. 
• Manage the end-of-day returns process, ensuring parts are properly inspected, scanned back  into inventory, and staged for restocking or vendor return. 
• Monitor driver performance using key metrics (on-time delivery, route efficiency, customer  feedback), while reinforcing a strong safety and service culture.

• 10+ years of experience in warehouse or distribution center management, preferably within the auto parts or automotive aftermarket industry. 
• Proven success leading warehouse start-ups or major operational transitions.
• Strong knowledge of handling and shipping large, irregularly shaped, and fragile items.
• Hands-on experience with ERP and WMS platforms and Microsoft Office tools.
• Demonstrated leadership ability with a track record of building high-performing teams.
• Strong communication and project management skills. 
• Ability to thrive in a fast-moving, high-growth environment with evolving priorities.
• Bachelor’s degree in business, Supply Chain, Operations, or related field preferred but not  required. 

Additional Qualifications (not required): 

• Lean Manufacturing Certification or Six Sigma (Green or Black Belt) 
• Experience managing fleets of 20+ vehicles, including driver performance tracking and route optimization 
• Familiarity with dispatch, routing, or telematics platforms (e.g., Descartes, Samsara, Route4Me)
• Working knowledge of DOT compliance, including driver logs, inspections, and hours-of-service rules 
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) 

What We Offer: 

• A key leadership role in shaping a new, strategically important facility. 
• Opportunity to innovate in a critical supply chain function for the auto collision repair industry.
• Competitive compensation and benefits. 
• Entrepreneurial, collaborative company culture.