Distribution Center Director
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AI Summary
Are you inspired by challenging the status quo? Do you thrive in collaborative environments that drive results? If so, Gates could be for you.
Gates is a leading manufacturer of application-specific fluid power and power transmission solutions. We push the boundaries of material science to engineer solutions that continually exceed customer expectations.
Let's simplify it, think belts and hoses. Found in motorcycles, conveyor belts, cars, tractors, blenders, vacuum cleaners, bicycles, & 3D printers just to name a few. Because why not do it all?
Short Description
Gates has an exciting opening for a Distribution Center Director to be located remotely.
The Director, North America Distribution is a senior operations leadership role responsible for day to day execution and performance of Gates’ North America distribution network. This role has accountability for distribution center operations, executional excellence, service performance, and cost control across a multi‑site network supporting manufacturing plants, customers, and commercial growth.
This leader partners closely with Manufacturing, Supply Chain Planning, Procurement, Finance, and Commercial teams to ensure safe, reliable, cost‑effective, and scalable distribution operations aligned with business objectives.
This is a strong opportunity for an experienced, hands‑on distribution leader to drive operational excellence within a global industrial manufacturer known for innovation in materials science. The role is responsible for the successful operation of 9 distribution centers across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, leading 6+ direct reports and a total organization of approximately 550 associates.
Key Performance Indicators
- Distribution center service level (on‑time, complete)
- Order picking accuracy
- Distribution center productivity
- Variable cost per line
- Inventory accuracy
- Safety performance (recordables, near misses)
- Employee retention and engagement
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
1.Distribution Operations Leadership
- Lead the day‑to‑day operations of the North American distribution network to achieve service, cost, safety, and productivity targets.
- Ensure consistent execution of distribution processes, policies, and operating standards across all sites.
- Drive operational stability, responsiveness, and continuous improvement across the network.
2. Distribution Center Performance Management
- Provide direct oversight of company‑operated and 3PL‑managed distribution centers.
- Establish and enforce standards for:
- Safety and environmental compliance
- Order fulfillment performance
- Inventory accuracy
- Labor productivity and cost control
- Review site‑level performance and implement corrective actions where needed.
3. Cost, Budget, and Productivity Accountability
- Own the distribution operations budget for North America.
- Drive year‑over‑year productivity improvements while maintaining service and quality.
- Identify and execute operational cost‑reduction opportunities within distribution centers.
- Support capital planning related to warehouse equipment, automation, and facility improvements.
4. Workforce and Labor Strategy
- Oversee labor planning, staffing models, and workforce flexibility across the distribution network.
- Partner with HR and site leadership on hiring, retention, engagement, and performance management.
- Provide leadership across union and non‑union environments as applicable.
- Build leadership capability across site management teams.
5. Inventory Accuracy and Flow Execution
- Ensure effective execution of inventory management processes within distribution centers.
- Support inventory accuracy, cycle counting, slotting, and material flow disciplines.
- Partner with Planning and Manufacturing to support inventory targets and service commitments.
6. Continuous Improvement and Standardization
- Lead adoption of lean, continuous improvement, and best‑practice operating models across sites.
- Promote standard work, visual management, and performance management routines.
- Benchmark site performance and share best practices across the network.
7. 3PL Operations Management
- Manage day‑to‑day operational performance of 3PL‑operated distribution centers.
- Ensure adherence to contracts, SLAs, KPIs, and safety standards.
- Lead regular operational reviews and continuous improvement initiatives with partners.
8. Systems, Data, and Operational Visibility
- Ensure effective utilization of WMS and related distribution systems.
- Promote data‑driven performance management through dashboards, KPIs, and site reviews.
- Support system enhancements and process improvements tied to distribution execution.
9. Safety, Compliance, and Risk Management
- Champion a strong safety‑first culture across all distribution operations.
- Ensure compliance with health, safety, and regulatory requirements.
- Support site‑level contingency planning and business continuity readiness.
10. Leadership and Organizational Development
- Lead, coach, and develop a team of regional and site distribution leaders.
- Define role clarity, expectations, and succession plans.
- Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
Supervisory Responsibilities
- 8+ Direct Reports
- Provides leadership and direction through Managers and Sr Managers
- Leads a sub-function, typically through subordinate managers of the manager
- Has full leadership, performance management, and people development responsibility for managers or high-level individual contributors to build a strong sub-function
Requirements and Preferred Skills
Required
- Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Engineering, Business, or related field
- 12+ years of progressive distribution/fulfillment experience
- 5+ years in multi‑site distribution/fulfillment leadership role
- Strong background in industrial or manufacturing environments
- Proven experience leading large, complex distribution center operations
Preferred
- Master’s degree (MBA or Supply Chain)
- Experience with warehouse automation and systems implementation
- Strong background in 3PL management
- Exposure to union and non-union operational environments
- Fluency in Spanish
Competencies
- Operational leadership and execution excellence
- Financial and cost management acumen
- Data‑driven decision making
- People leadership and team development
- Cross‑functional collaboration
- Continuous improvement mindset
Additional Requirements
- Must be able to travel domestically and internationally approximately 50% of the time.
- Ability to maintain a flexible work schedule to manage the demands of a 24/7 distribution network and unexpected customer needs.
- Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without company sponsorship.
PAY & BENEFITS
- Full-Time
- Salary Range: $160,000 - $210,000
- Bonus Eligible
- Medical, Dental, Vision insurance and other voluntary benefit options: benefits begin on the first day of the month immediately following your date of hire
- Eligible for Flexible Time Off
- 401(k): 3% company contribution and additional 3% company match
- Tuition Reimbursement
WHY GATES?
Founded in 1911 in Denver, Colorado, Gates is publicly traded on the NYSE. While we might operate in a vast amount of time zones we operate as 'One Gates' and have a common goal of pushing the boundaries of materials science. We invest in our people, bringing real-world experience that enables us to solve our customers' diverse challenges of today and anticipate those of tomorrow.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
Gates is an Equal Opportunity and is committed to ensuring equal employment opportunities for all job applicants and employees. Employment decisions are based upon job-related reasons regardless of race, sex, color, religion, age, disability, pregnancy, citizenship, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, genetic information, marital status, or any other consideration defined by law.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit; use hands and fingers to work with objects, tools, or controls; and use office equipment including computers, telephones, and/or copiers/scanners. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 10 pounds.
For individuals assigned and/or hired to work in Colorado, Gates is required by law to include a reasonable estimate of the compensation for this role. This compensation range is specific to the State of Colorado and takes into account various factors that are considered in making compensation decisions, including but not limited to the candidate's relevant experience, qualifications, skills, competencies, and proficiency for the role.
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