JRG Partners is proud to partner with a premier, rapidly growing Third-Party Logistics (3PL) provider in their search for a dynamic and visionary Director of Distribution Center Operations. Our client is a leader in providing innovative supply chain solutions to a diverse portfolio of Fortune 500 companies and high-growth e-commerce brands. This is a rare and exciting opportunity to take the helm of a flagship facility in Memphis, Tennessee—the logistical heart of America—and drive its success to new heights. We are seeking a leader who is not just an operator, but a strategic partner to the business and its clients, capable of fostering a culture of excellence, safety, and continuous improvement.
This role is ideal for a seasoned logistics professional who thrives in a fast-paced, multi-client environment and possesses a deep understanding of the complexities of modern fulfillment. You will be responsible for the entire operational and financial performance of a large-scale, technologically advanced distribution center. Your leadership will directly impact client satisfaction, profitability, and the long-term growth of the site and the company.
Role Overview for Director, Distribution Center Ops with a 3PL – Memphis, TN
As the Director of Distribution Center Operations, you will serve as the senior leader for a state-of-the-art, 750,000+ square foot facility. You will have full P&L ownership and strategic responsibility for all operational activities, leading a dedicated team of over 200 associates and managers. Your mission will be to ensure the safe, efficient, and profitable operation of the facility while delivering world-class service to multiple, high-profile clients. You will be the face of the operation to key customers, building strong partnerships and ensuring that service level agreements (SLAs) are consistently met or exceeded. This position requires a strategic mindset to plan for future growth, a hands-on approach to drive daily performance, and the leadership acumen to inspire and develop a high-performing team. You will report directly to the Regional Vice President of Operations and will be a key member of the regional leadership team.
Key Responsibilities of Director, Distribution Center Ops with a 3PL – Memphis, TN
Strategic Leadership & Planning
Develop and execute both short-term and long-term strategic operational plans for the distribution center, ensuring tight alignment with the company’s overall business objectives and client growth projections. Proactively identify opportunities for process optimization, technology integration, and service expansion.
Financial & P&L Management
Assume full P&L responsibility for the Memphis facility, meticulously managing a budget exceeding $25M. Drive profitability through rigorous cost control, efficiency gains, accurate labor planning, and effective resource allocation. Prepare and present monthly and quarterly financial and operational reviews to executive leadership.
Operational Excellence
Direct all facets of warehouse operations, including receiving, put-away, inventory control and accuracy, order picking, packing, value-added services (VAS), and shipping. Ensure seamless execution across multiple client accounts with varying B2B and D2C requirements.
Performance Management & KPIs
Establish, monitor, and consistently exceed key performance indicators (KPIs) for productivity, quality (order accuracy, inventory accuracy), safety, and customer service. Implement robust, data-driven reporting and analytics to track performance and identify root causes for improvement.
Client Partnership & Relationship Management
Serve as the senior operational leader and strategic partner for all clients housed within the facility. Lead quarterly business reviews (QBRs) to discuss performance, challenges, and future opportunities, fostering deep, transparent, and lasting relationships that drive retention and growth.
Continuous Improvement Culture
Champion a culture of operational excellence by implementing and sustaining industry-leading continuous improvement methodologies such as Lean, Six Sigma, and 5S. Lead Kaizen events and empower the team at all levels to identify and eliminate waste from processes.
Team Leadership & Development
Lead, mentor, and develop a large and diverse team, including direct reports at the Operations Manager and Supervisor levels. Foster a positive, inclusive, and engaging work environment. Oversee talent acquisition, performance management, succession planning, and training programs to build a world-class team.
Safety, Security & Compliance
Champion a safety-first culture, ensuring the highest standards of safety and compliance with all OSHA and other regulatory requirements. Maintain a secure facility to protect company, client, and employee assets. Ensure all operations adhere to legal and ethical standards.
Technology & Systems Management
Leverage the Warehouse Management System (WMS) and other technologies to their fullest potential to drive efficiency, accuracy, and visibility. Partner with IT and engineering teams to evaluate, recommend, and implement new technologies and automation solutions.
Capacity & Resource Planning
Develop and maintain sophisticated labor and capacity models to effectively manage fluctuations in volume, seasonality, and new client onboarding. Ensure the facility is appropriately staffed and equipped to meet all current and future demands.
Requirements for the Director, Distribution Center Ops with a 3PL – Memphis, TN
Education
A Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Industrial Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field is required. An MBA or other advanced degree is highly preferred.
Experience
A minimum of 10-12 years of progressive leadership experience within a high-volume, complex distribution or fulfillment environment. At least 5 of these years must be in a senior management role (e.g., General Manager, Site Leader, or Director) within a multi-client 3PL setting.
Financial Acumen
Demonstrated experience managing a full P&L for a large-scale operation, with a proven track record of developing budgets, managing costs, and meeting or exceeding financial targets.
Leadership Skills
Proven ability to lead, inspire, and develop large, non-exempt workforces and management teams. A servant-leader mindset with exceptional communication, interpersonal, and team-building skills.
Technical Proficiency
Expertise with Tier-1 Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) such as Manhattan, Blue Yonder (JDA), or SAP EWM is essential. Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel for data analysis and modeling.
Continuous Improvement Expertise
Formal training and practical application of Lean, Six Sigma, or similar methodologies are strongly desired. A track record of leading successful process improvement projects is required.
Client-Facing Skills
Exceptional presentation and communication skills with proven experience managing client relationships, conducting business reviews, and negotiating solutions.
Analytical Mindset
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex data to make sound, timely business decisions.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client believes in investing in their leaders and offers a highly competitive and comprehensive compensation and benefits package, including:
- Highly Competitive Base Salary
- Aggressive Annual Performance-Based Bonus Program
- Comprehensive Health Insurance Package (Medical, Dental, and Vision)
- 401(k) Retirement Plan with a Generous Company Match
- Substantial Paid Time Off (PTO), Sick Days, and Paid Holidays
- Company-Paid Life Insurance and Disability Coverage
- Relocation Assistance for qualified candidates
- Opportunities for Professional Development and Continued Education
- A dynamic, supportive, and growth-oriented company culture
- Significant opportunities for career advancement within a rapidly expanding organization
How to Apply
If you are a results-oriented supply chain leader with a passion for operational excellence and a proven track record of success in the 3PL industry, we encourage you to apply. This is a critical leadership role with a significant impact on the business, offering immense professional growth and reward. Please submit your resume for confidential consideration. To learn more about our dedicated recruitment services in this sector, you can also learn more by exploring our expertise in Supply Chain & Logistics recruitment. JRG Partners is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workforce.
