Distribution Center Manager – Build It From Day One Steel & O’Brien | Cincinnati DCC Hub – West Chester, OH Lead the launch. Shape the operation. Drive the future. Steel & O’Brien is expanding—and it’s because of you. Driven by growing demand for our products, we’re opening not just one, but two brand-new facilities in West Chester, Ohio: a state-of-the-art manufacturing plant (celebrating its ribbon cutting on June 30th) and a new Distribution Center (DCC Hub) that will power our supply chain across the U.S. We’re looking for a Distribution Center Manager to build, lead, and scale this operation from the ground up. This is a rare opportunity to create processes, develop teams, and establish a high-performing distribution hub that directly supports manufacturing success nationwide. Position Overview The Distribution Center Manager is responsible for leading all operations within our new Cincinnati DCC Hub, including inbound receiving, inventory control, outbound shipments, and light fabrication/assembly support. This role is critical to ensuring on-time delivery, inventory accuracy, and seamless material flow to multiple manufacturing sites. You’ll lead cross-functional teams, drive continuous improvement, and establish the standard for operational excellence in a brand-new facility. What You’ll Do Build & Lead the Operation - Launch and lead daily distribution center operations including:
- Inbound domestic and international container receiving
- Warehouse and inventory management
- Outbound pallet shipments to manufacturing sites across the U.S.
- Light fabrication and assembly support activities
- Design and optimize warehouse layout, storage strategies, and material flow
- Ensure operational readiness to support production schedules and customer demand
Develop High-Performing Teams - Lead, coach, and develop inbound, outbound, warehouse, and production support teams
- Establish a culture of accountability, safety, teamwork, and continuous improvement
- Manage staffing, scheduling, performance, and training programs
- Foster a positive and engaging work environment focused on results
Drive Inventory & Supply Chain Excellence - Ensure accurate inventory levels and system integrity within ERP/WMS platforms
- Oversee cycle counts, reconciliations, and inventory accuracy initiatives
- Partner with Supply Chain, Procurement, and Manufacturing to ensure uninterrupted flow of materials
- Drive material traceability and operational control
Oversee Shipping, Receiving & Logistics - Manage inbound and outbound transportation, container receiving, and carrier coordination
- Ensure timely and accurate shipment of materials and finished goods
- Optimize dock operations for efficiency and throughput
Support Production & Continuous Improvement - Enable manufacturing success through strong material planning and coordination
- Lead Lean, 5S, and continuous improvement initiatives to reduce waste and improve flow
- Monitor KPIs and implement improvements to drive performance
- Collaborate with Finance, Manufacturing, and Supply Chain for operational alignment
Champion Safety & Compliance - Ensure compliance with OSHA, environmental, and company safety standards
- Lead safety initiatives, audits, and corrective actions
- Promote a culture where safety is always the top priority
What You Bring - Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Operations, Engineering, Business, or related field (preferred)
- 7–10 years of leadership experience in distribution, warehouse, or manufacturing operations
- Proven experience managing a distribution center, warehouse, or fulfillment operation
- Strong background in shipping, receiving, logistics, and inventory management
- Experience supporting manufacturing operations and production environments preferred
- Hands-on experience with ERP/WMS systems and Microsoft Office
- Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement experience preferred
- Strong leadership presence with excellent communication and problem-solving skills
Core Strengths for Success - Operational leadership and execution
- Team development and coaching
- Inventory and warehouse management expertise
- Logistics and distribution optimization
- Continuous improvement mindset
- Safety and compliance leadership
- KPI ownership and performance management
- Strategic, cross-functional collaboration
Our Culture At Steel & O’Brien, we believe great operations are built by great people. As a leader, you will: - Lead with integrity, accountability, and professionalism
- Champion teamwork, innovation, and continuous improvement
- Build strong cross-functional relationships across all departments
- Lead by example with a relentless focus on safety, quality, and customer satisfaction
- Create an environment where ideas are heard, respected, and acted on
Our values guide everything we do:
Integrity • Trust • Creativity & Courage • Teamwork • Excellence Working Conditions - Fast-paced distribution and manufacturing support environment
- Frequent walking and movement throughout the facility
- Exposure to warehouse equipment, industrial environments, and varying temperatures
- Occasional lifting up to 50 lbs
- Limited travel to support manufacturing sites and operational alignment
Why Join Us? This is more than a management role—it’s a build-from-scratch leadership opportunity. You’ll play a critical role in shaping a new distribution center that directly supports a growing manufacturing network. You won’t just manage operations—you’ll create them. Steel & O’Brien is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
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