Distribution Manager
Detroit, MI
Full Time
Distribution
Senior Manager/Supervisor
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.
Qualifications:
- 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.
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