Lead - Distribution Center Operational Excellence

As the Lead DC Operational Excellence, you will be the operational backbone and continuous improvement catalyst across our global Distribution Center (DC) network. Operating within the DC Operational Excellence, you will define standard operating procedures, build and govern the 3PL performance framework, and drive channel-specific operational scalability (Retail, B2B, eCommerce). You will bridge strategic network objectives with ground-level warehouse execution to ensure world-class fulfillment, robust inventory controls, and scalable operations that support rapid brand growth.

1. Operational Standards & Process Audits:

• Standard Work & Process Engineering: Define and harmonize global standard operating procedures (SOPs) across all 3PL-operated distribution centers, embedding them into the Audit Framework to ensure global consistency while providing targeted local and regional support for onboarding and solution validation.
• Operational Audits & Compliance: Own the global operational audit cadence and reporting to evaluate process compliance in close collaboration with the regional teams across all network sites, directly feeding audit findings into the continuous improvement framework to ensure learnings are systematically integrated worldwide.
• Inventory Control & Quality Assurance: Implement standardized inventory control procedures (cycle counting, reconciliation, defect tracking) to ensure high inventory accuracy across all facilities.

1. 3PL Performance & Network Procurement Support:

• KPI & Governance Framework: Design and enforce a standardized 3PL performance management framework (QBRs, operational scorecards, SLA adherence, cost-to-serve metrics), in order to ensure a cost efficient Premium customer experience.
• RFP & Network Tender Support: Serve as operational support during logistics RFP processes, validating 3PL operational capabilities, process design, resource models, and operational readiness.

1. Channel Operations Excellence & Scalability Programs:

• Channel SME (Retail, B2B, Specialty): Act as the DC Ops Excellence Subject Matter Expert for omni-channel fulfillment nuances, leading operational alignment between logistics and sales channel leads.
• Retail Scalability Program: Develop and scale DC capabilities to support expanding retail footprint, store deliveries, and inventory availability.
• B2B & Specialty Run “Care” Program: Lead the design and rollout of specialized value-added services (VAS) and high-touch fulfillment processes for key wholesale accounts and specialty running retail partners.

1. Continuous Improvement (CI) & Business Cases:

• CI Framework & Lean Methodology: Lead the global continuous improvement framework (Kaizen, 5S, Six Sigma) across the DC network.
• Business Case Development: Quantify operational opportunities and build robust business cases (ROI, CAPEX/OPEX justification, capacity uplift) for automation, layout optimizations, and process redesigns.

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Logistics, Supply Chain & Operations Management, or a related field (Master's degree preferred).
• Experience: 7+ years of progressive experience in logistics engineering, warehouse operations management, or operational excellence within multi-site distribution networks (apparel, footwear, FMCG, or fast-paced consumer goods).
• 3PL Governance: Proven track record of managing and optimizing multi-facility 3PL partnerships globally or across major geographical regions.
• Continuous Improvement Expertise: Lean Six Sigma certification is a plus (Green/Black Belt) or demonstrated mastery in Kaizen, process mapping, root cause problem solving, and standard work implementation.
• Omni-Channel Acumen: In-depth understanding of multi-channel distribution dynamics across Retail replenishment, eCommerce fulfillment, and B2B wholesale.
• Leadership & Stakeholder Management: Strong cross-functional leadership with the ability to influence senior internal stakeholders, negotiate with external logistics partners, and lead change management initiatives.
• Analytical Mindset: Advanced proficiency in operational modeling, warehouse analytics, WMS/ERP logic, and developing data-backed business cases.
• Proactive Problem Solving: Demonstrated ability to work with high autonomy, consistently diagnosing and mitigating complex operational bottlenecks within dedicated projects and broader work streams.
• Communication: Fluency in English (written and spoken); ability to synthesize complex operational topics into clear executive summaries.