96450A - Manager I, Operations

Summary: The Operations Manager is responsible for directing and coordinating all warehouse and transportation activities to ensure the efficient utilization of equipment, facilities, and personnel. This role drives operational excellence, inventory accuracy, food safety, customer satisfaction, and employee development while maintaining compliance with company policies and regulatory requirements.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Provide clear and comprehensive reporting on periodic General Manager (GM) reports, identifying operational deficiencies, corrective actions, opportunities for improvement, and key business insights. Facilitate open discussions regarding branch performance and operational priorities.

Oversee all warehouse and transportation operations, working closely with department associates to ensure efficiency, productivity, and service excellence.

Review operational performance against budgetary goals and collaborate with the Branch General Manager to develop and implement corrective action plans to achieve desired results.

Analyze sales volume and business demands to determine appropriate staffing levels and resource allocation within warehouse and distribution operations.

Plan, prioritize, and manage operational projects, schedules, and departmental initiatives.

Review and analyze weekly, monthly, and periodic operational reports, making recommendations and taking appropriate action to improve performance and achieve business objectives.

Maintain accountability for all inventory control processes, ensuring compliance with BakeMark Best Practices and company standards.

Oversee the cleanliness, sanitation, and overall condition of warehouse facilities, material handling equipment, and rolling stock.

Coordinate and supervise equipment maintenance and repair activities, including vendor selection, bid review, and service agreements.

Recommend and support capital expenditure investments that improve operational efficiency, productivity, and customer service.

Lead and maintain food safety, food defense, and facility security programs in accordance with company and regulatory standards.

Promote a culture of safety by ensuring a safe work environment for all associates and visitors. Investigate accidents, identify root causes, implement corrective actions, and monitor follow-through.

Ensure compliance with company policies, transportation and warehouse procedures, safety regulations, and applicable federal, state, and local laws.

Manage the disposition and salvage of damaged, expired, or unsaleable products.

Investigate customer and carrier concerns, determine root causes, and implement solutions to improve service and customer satisfaction.

Respond promptly to customer inquiries and requests, ensuring timely resolution and follow-up.

Serve as the primary operational contact for union representatives at bargaining-unit locations, including addressing grievances and maintaining positive labor relations.

Foster positive working relationships by treating all internal and external customers with professionalism, respect, courtesy, and responsiveness.

Support and uphold company values, policies, and objectives.

Comply with all company policies, procedures, and safety requirements outlined in the Employee Handbook and other company communications.

Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned to support business needs and organizational goals.

Qualifications:

Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.

Experience managing warehouse, distribution, transportation, and inventory control operations.

Knowledge of food safety, OSHA requirements, DOT regulations, and warehouse best practices.

Experience with budgeting, operational reporting, and performance management.

Ability to lead teams, manage multiple priorities, and drive continuous improvement initiatives.

Union workforce experience preferred where applicable.