Manager, Distribution Centre

Job Summary

The Distribution Manager is responsible for overseeing the operations of this department across two shifts, plays a key role within the Calgary Logistics Centre, and reports to the Senior Distribution Centre Manager. This position directly contributes to the achievement of organizational objectives by supervising the distribution of merchandise to pallet assembly lines serving more than 500 Canadian stores.
The incumbent ensures operational efficiency through the effective management of a workforce of approximately 150 employees and support functions across two shifts, as well as through the optimization of processes and systems. In addition, the Distribution Manager is responsible for achieving and maintaining productivity targets while ensuring compliance with quality, health, and safety standards.

Key Accountabilities

• Lead all Distribution Department operations, including the daily management of more than 2,500 pallets, while ensuring compliance with performance, quality, health, and safety standards.
• Manage an operating budget representing more than 250,000 labor hours annually by optimizing resource allocation, maintaining strict cost controls, and achieving ambitious productivity targets.
• Plan, organize, and direct daily distribution, repackaging, and auditing operations, ensuring adherence to the FIFO (First In, First Out) inventory management methodology.
• Oversee the financial management and overall operational performance of the department, including close monitoring of costs, productivity optimization, and achievement of budget objectives.
• Supervise a management structure consisting of 2 Supervisors, 5 Team Leads, and approximately 150 employees across two shifts, fostering employee engagement, skill development, and overall team performance.
• Drive performance through key performance indicators (KPIs), analyze variances, and continuously adjust strategies in a dynamic, multicultural, and rapidly growing environment.
• Develop and implement optimized operational processes and workforce plans to ensure maximum efficiency and support high-volume operations.
• Actively promote a culture of health and safety by ensuring compliance with regulations and minimizing risks in a high-intensity operational environment.
• Oversee distribution equipment, ensuring optimal performance, proper maintenance, and uninterrupted operations.
• Collaborate closely with various business units to ensure operational efficiency and alignment with organizational priorities.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives and strategic projects aimed at optimizing processes, systems, and operational capacity.
• Foster an engaging work environment focused on coaching, talent development, and employee accountability.

Job Requirements

• University degree, preferably in Logistics Management, Inventory Management, Operations Management, Industrial Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of five (5) to seven (7) years of management experience, with a strong understanding and practical knowledge of all supply chain concepts within a network environment.
• Experience with Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) is essential, including hands-on experience with radio-frequency (RF) equipment and SAP software.
• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel.
• Ability to leverage and interpret Power BI dashboards to support strategic, data-driven decision-making.
• Demonstrated experience managing budgets and productivity performance.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to identify root causes and implement high-value solutions.
• The ideal candidate is highly energetic, motivated, results-oriented, creative, innovative, and adaptable.
• Proven track record of successfully leading and developing high-performing teams.
• The successful candidate will demonstrate a strong results orientation, the ability to perform root cause and interpretive analyses, lead effective teams, develop direct reports, exercise sound business judgment, influence stakeholders, and demonstrate strategic agility.
• Fluency in English is required.