Vice President of Operations
The Vice President of Operations will to oversee two major Distribution Centers in the Chicago market including a newly built, first‑of‑its‑kind semi‑automated facility.
This strategic, high-impact leadership role is ideal for an operations executive who thrives in complex, high‑volume environments, has experience leading unionized workforces, and brings a strong background in automation, change leadership, and cross‑functional operations management.
Key Responsibilities
Operational Leadership
- Provide executive oversight for two distribution centers, including a newly launched semi‑automated DC and an existing high‑volume facility.
- Lead all site operations, including warehouse, transportation, fleet, facilities, receiving, shipping, and inventory control.
- Partner closely with regional and area leadership to align operational objectives with broader business strategies.
Strategic Planning & Execution
- Develop and execute long‑term operational strategies to support growth, productivity, profitability, and service excellence.
- Drive continuous improvement across labor management, safety, quality, cost control, and service metrics.
- Integrate operations functions, transportation, warehouse, purchasing, and sales, ensuring cross‑department alignment and accountability.
Automation & Innovation
- Lead operational change management within a large semi‑automated facility using advanced systems.
- Guide teams through technology adoption, process redesign, and performance optimization in automated and semi‑automated environments.
People Leadership
- Direct a large team including warehouse leadership, transportation management, fleet/facilities, semi‑automation managers, and day/night operations groups.
- Lead through influence, coaching, performance management, and talent development.
- Foster a culture of engagement, continuous improvement, and operational excellence.
Union Relations
- Oversee large warehouse and transportation workforces.
- Administer and negotiate collective bargaining agreements, ensuring fair implementation and positive labor relationships.
Safety & Compliance
- Ensure full compliance with DOT regulations, OSHA requirements, food safety standards (including HACCP), and other regulatory programs.
- Lead safety programs, accident prevention initiatives, facility maintenance, and ergonomics best practices.
Qualifications
- 10+ years of progressive distribution or supply chain operations leadership.
- 5+ years leading large teams in high‑volume DC environments.
- Experience with union environments is required.
- Experience with warehouse automation strongly preferred.
- Bachelor's degree preferred (or equivalent experience).
- Strong competency in budgeting, cost management, labor relations, safety programs, and customer service.
- Knowledge of DOT regulations, OSHA standards, HACCP guidelines, and distribution operations best practices.
- Proven ability to lead transformational initiatives and drive major operational improvements.
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