What are the responsibilities and job description for the Distribution Operations Manager position at Simon \u0026 Schuster?
Simon & Schuster was named to Forbes magazine list of America's Best Mid-Size Employers 2022. Simon & Schuster is a global leader in general interest publishing, dedicated to providing the best in fiction and nonfiction for readers of all ages, and in all printed, digital and audio formats. Its distinguished roster of authors includes many of the world's most popular and widely recognized writers, and winners of the most prestigious literary honors and awards. It is home to numerous well-known imprints and divisions such as Simon & Schuster, Scribner, Atria Books, Gallery Books, Pocket Books, Adams Media, Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing and Simon & Schuster Audio and international companies in Australia, Canada, India and the United Kingdom, and proudly brings the works of its authors to readers in more than 200 countries and territories. For more information visit our website at www.simonandschuster.com.
The Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing day-to-day distribution center operations for a book publishing organization. This role ensures the efficient, accurate, and cost-effective receipt, storage, picking, packing, and shipment of finished books and related products. The Operations Manager leads frontline supervisors and staff, drives continuous improvement, and ensures service level commitments to customers, retailers, and internal stakeholders are met—especially during peak publishing seasons.
Key Responsibilities
Operational Leadership
- Manage daily warehouse and fulfillment operations, including inbound receiving, put-away, inventory control, order fulfillment, shipping, and returns processing
- Ensure operational readiness to support new title releases, seasonal surges, and promotional campaigns
- Monitor productivity, throughput, and accuracy to meet service level agreements (SLAs)
People Management
- Lead, coach, and develop supervisors and hourly staff in a fast-paced distribution environment
- Oversee staffing plans, scheduling, training, and performance management
- Promote a culture of accountability, engagement, and continuous improvement
Process & Continuous Improvement
- Identify and implement process improvements to increase efficiency, reduce errors, and control costs
- Leverage Lean, Six Sigma, or similar methodologies where applicable
- Partner with IT and Supply Chain teams to optimize warehouse management systems (WMS) and reporting tools
Inventory & Quality Control
- Ensure accurate inventory management, cycle counts, and reconciliation
- Minimize shrink, damages, and mis-shipments
- Maintain high standards for order accuracy and product quality
Safety & Compliance
- Ensure compliance with all safety regulations, company policies, and labor standards
- Lead safety initiatives and training to maintain a safe working environment
- Support audits and ensure adherence to internal controls
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Collaborate with Publishing Operations, Sales, Customer Service, and Transportation teams to resolve issues and improve service
- Communicate operational performance, risks, and improvement plans to leadership
Qualifications
Required
- Bachelor’s degree in Operations Management, Supply Chain, Logistics, or a related field, or equivalent experience
- 5 years of experience in distribution center or warehouse operations, with at least 2 years in a management role
- Experience managing high-volume fulfillment operations, preferably in publishing, media, or consumer products
- Strong people leadership and team-building skills
- Proficiency with warehouse management systems (WMS) and operational reporting
- Ability to work flexible hours, including peak seasons, evenings, or weekends as needed
Preferred
- Experience in book publishing or returns-heavy distribution environments
- Familiarity with Lean, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement frameworks
- Strong analytical skills with the ability to translate data into action
Key Competencies
- Operational excellence and execution focus
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Problem-solving and decision-making
- Change management and adaptability
- Results-driven mindset with attention to detail
Simon & Schuster US is an equal opportunity employer (EOE) including disability/vet. At Simon & Schuster US, the spirit of inclusion feeds into everything that we do. From employee benefits/programs and social impact outreach initiatives, we believe that opportunity, access, resources and rewards should be available to and for the benefit of all. Simon & Schuster US is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ethnicity, ancestry, religion, creed, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship status, marital status, disability, gender identity, gender expression, and Veteran status.
The hiring salary range for this position applies to New York City, California, Colorado, Washington state, and most other geographies. Starting pay for the successful applicant depends on a variety of job-related factors, including but not limited to geographic location, market demands, experience, training, and education. The benefits available for this position include medical, dental, vision, 401(k) plan, life insurance coverage, disability benefits, tuition assistance program and PTO or, if applicable. Additionally, employees have access to our industry-first, Broad Based Ownership program, which makes all employees partners in our shared success.
Candidates hired for this or any other posted Simon & Schuster role will be employees of Simon & Schuster, LLC, subject to all policies, including the Workplace Privacy Notice, and eligible solely for the benefits plans thereof.