Distribution Center Manager

Distribution Center Manager, New Orleans, LA

Do you dream of working in a fast-paced environment where your initiative drives success? Will you speak up to share opportunities for improvement and drive change?

We're looking for a dynamic Distribution Center Manager to lead our warehouse operations at our central distribution facility. In this key leadership role, you'll oversee a high-performing team and collaborate closely with Logistics, Sales, Marketing, Plant Management, and external partners to ensure smooth, efficient, and timely distribution.

In this role, you will lead and inspire the warehouse team to achieve operational excellence while partnering with cross-functional departments to streamline supply chain and distribution workflows. You will collaborate with external suppliers and vendors to enhance the efficiency and reliability of our logistics network. Occasional travel (up to 20%) may be required to support business needs, along with taking on additional responsibilities that contribute to our mission and ongoing growth.

What do you need to be successful in this role?

• Oversee daily operations within the distribution center, driving improvements in lead time, cost efficiency, quality, inventory accuracy, and service levels
• Ensure timely and accurate shipping of finished goods, either directly or through team supervision
• Design and optimize facility layouts, infrastructure, and product flow to support operational efficiency
• Maintain high inventory accuracy through effective cycle counting and inventory control processes
• Uphold shipping and receiving quality standards through robust, standardized procedures
• Collaborate with the planning team to manage and balance inventory levels across the distribution network
• Analyze and implement strategies to optimize transportation and warehouse networks; evaluate third-party services when needed
• Ensure proper tracking and tracing of all shipments
• Manage customer requests and priorities with a focus on cost-effective and timely solutions
• Lead implementation of barcoding systems (including picking, transfers, and cycle counting) in warehouses lacking WMS
• Contribute to the development of the annual departmental budget and manage expenses within established limits
• Monitor and report on key performance metrics; create new performance measures as needed to enhance operational oversight
• Recruit, train, and develop warehouse and transportation staff
• Introduce and apply innovative techniques in distribution and inventory management
• Manage reverse logistics processes, including returns and rework handling
• Partner with HR and Safety teams to implement health, safety, and environmental procedures, ensuring compliance with OSHA and company standards

Do You Want to Go Further with Hempel?

Qualifications & Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Logistics Management, Supply Chain, or a related field or equivalent combination of education and relevant work experience
• Minimum of 7 years' experience in distribution center operations, including 5+ years in a leadership or management role
• Bilingual in English and Spanish highly preferred
• Hands-on experience with automated Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
• HAZMAT and DOT certification or experience preferred
• Strong verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills
• Proven ability to lead, organize, and manage teams including remote direct reports while collaborating effectively across departments
• Exceptional time management and multitasking skills; able to prioritize in a fast-paced environment
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Word

Work Environment:

This role is based in a distribution center office environment. Conditions may vary depending on the season, ranging from warm and humid during the summer months to cooler temperatures in the winter. Reasonable accommodations will be provided to support individuals with disabilities in performing the essential functions of the job.

Physical Requirements:

The physical demands described here reflect those necessary for an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this role. The position requires the ability to work in a warehouse environment, with exposure to outdoor weather conditions and occasional chemical fumes. Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.

Application due 2025-07-31

Seniority Level Mid-Senior level

Job Functions Distribution, Manufacturing

Industry Chemicals

At Hempel, you're welcomed to a global community of +7000 colleagues around the world. A workplace built on shared trust, mutual respect and support for each other.

We're on a mission to double our impact. To succeed, we need bright minds and team players. Which is why, from day one, your input, ideas and initiative are not only welcomed, but expected. In return, you will enjoy great opportunities for development in a growing global company and be part of the solution by contributing to our global impact.

At Hempel, we are committed to everyone feeling safe, valued and treated equally, in an environment where each employee can bring their authentic selves to work. We believe that inclusion is key to innovation and by bringing together the most diverse perspectives and talents, we can achieve great things, together.