Sr DC Operations Manager

At Designer Brands, we are the proud parent company of DSW Designer Shoe Warehouse, The Shoe Company, and Rubino, operating nearly 675 stores across North America and a billion-dollar digital commerce business. We lead the footwear industry with a diverse portfolio of iconic brands, including Topo Athletic, Keds, Vince Camuto, Kelly & Katie, Jessica Simpson, Lucky Brand, Mix No. 6, Crown Vintage, and others. With expertise in design, production, and sourcing, we create on-trend footwear and accessories, delivered through a robust omni-channel infrastructure and national wholesale distribution. At Designer Brands, we are committed to fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity, where each employee’s unique perspective contributes to our success. Anchored by our core values of “We Love What We Do,” “We Own What We Do,” “We Do What’s Right,” and “We Belong,” we continuously drive forward together, building a future where everyone can put their best foot forward.

The Opportunity

At Designer Brands, we believe in the power of style to inspire self-expression—and that starts with how we operate behind the scenes. As our Senior Distribution Center (DC) Operations Manager, you’ll be at the heart of our supply chain, leading the charge in a fast-paced, automated environment where innovation meets collaboration.

This role is more than logistics—it’s about building strong partnerships, driving performance, and ensuring our customers receive the products they love, when they expect them. You’ll be the key connector between our third-party logistics (3PL) team and internal stakeholders, making sure our distribution center runs smoothly, efficiently, and with a commitment to excellence.

You’ll report to the Senior Director of LC Operations and lead a small but mighty team of Inventory Control and Compliance Clerks (2 direct reports).

What You’ll Be Doing

You’ll lead with purpose and precision, focusing on four core areas:

Operational Leadership & Partnership

• Serve as the daily liaison between DBI and our 3PL partner, ensuring seamless operations.
• Collaborate with internal experts across Planning & Allocation, Stores, Engineering, Inventory Control, Flow Planning, Transportation, and Distribution Systems.
• Monitor 3PL performance against key metrics and drive continuous improvement.
  
  

Process Optimization & Cost Management

• Identify and implement strategies to reduce bottlenecks, improve efficiency, and manage costs.
• Analyze labor needs and expenses to support volume and handling expectations.
• Train 3PL teams to meet DBI’s operational standards and expectations.
  
  

Quality Control & Compliance

• Develop and oversee quality control processes to ensure product handling, shipping, and delivery meet high standards.
• Conduct audits and inspections to maintain compliance and resolve quality issues.
• Enforce vendor compliance and document for potential chargebacks.
  
  

Inventory Accuracy & Reporting

• Partner with inventory teams to maintain accurate stock levels and reduce shrinkage.
• Track and report key performance indicators, highlighting opportunities for improvement.
• Lead DBI’s on-site inventory and compliance team with a focus on accountability and development.
  
  

People & Culture

• Provide leadership, coaching, and feedback to team members.
• Foster a culture of teamwork, safety, and continuous improvement.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations and industry standards.
  
  

What You’ll Need

We’re looking for someone who brings both experience and a growth mindset. Here’s what sets you up for success:

Skills & Competencies

• Strong business acumen and operational planning skills.
• Effective communicator with solid verbal and written skills.
• Detail-oriented with excellent organizational and multitasking abilities.
• Comfortable navigating conflict, pressure, and ambiguity.
• Passionate about mentoring and leadership development.
• Familiar with distribution systems and best practices.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook).
• Experience with WMS, automation, conveyor systems, and unit sortation is a plus.
  
  

Experience

• 5–10 years of warehouse/distribution management experience, ideally in an automated setting.
• At least 5 years of progressive supply chain/distribution leadership with proven results.
  
  

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Industrial Engineering, Business Administration, Operations Management, or related field—or equivalent experience.
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in:
• Automated operations and 3PL environments.
• Supervising workflow, quality, and allocation planning across direct and temporary teams.
• Distribution functions in automated warehouse settings.
• LEAN/Six Sigma methodologies (Green Belt or higher preferred).
  

Perks and Benefits You’ll Enjoy!

• Your Sole Well-Being: Our benefits package is crafted with our associates in mind! We support you with benefits like free virtual health care, robust family/fertility benefits, 401(k) w/ match, and more. Explore our offerings at https://mymobilewalletcard.com/dbi.
• Stride with Flexibility: We offer hybrid and remote work opportunities, giving you the freedom to stay connected, productive, and inspired—wherever you do your best work.
• Stepping Up Your Career: Take advantage of training programs, professional development, and education assistance to advance your career with a company that celebrates bold ideas and fresh perspectives.
• We are Shoe-Obsessed: Because we know a great pair of shoes can change your day, you’ll enjoy 30% off at DSW & com, plus discounts across our family of brands.