Director of Distribution & Warehouse Operations

Department
 

Press Distribution Business Office

About the Department
 

Since its origins in 1890 as one of the three main divisions of the University of Chicago, the University of Chicago Press has embraced as its mission the obligation to disseminate scholarship of the highest standard and to publish serious works that promote education, foster public understanding, and enrich cultural life. Through our books and journals, we seek not only to advance scholarly conversation within and across traditional disciplines but, in keeping with the University of Chicago's experimental tradition, to help define new areas of knowledge and intellectual endeavor.

Job Summary
 

The Director of Distribution & Warehouse Operations will report directly to the Director of the CDC. This position will be responsible for seven direct reports: receiving/inventory control manager, production manager, return processing manager, digital print manager, building engineer, warehouse operation analyst and administrative assistant. This position will be responsible for directing the day-to-day activities of the distribution and fulfillment of customer orders which also includes overseeing the digital print center in support of CDC’s client business. In addition, the Director will be responsible for facility management of two buildings (275,000 sq. ft.) and preparing and managing a $3.5m budget.

Responsibilities

• Directs the day-to-day distribution and fulfillment operations of all warehouse departments: receiving, inventory control, pick/pack/ship, returns processing, digital print center.

• Daily facility management of two buildings (275,000 sq. ft.)  which includes ensuring a clean, secure, and functional work environment for employees.

• Reviews key performance metrics to ensure desired results are achieved, the facility is operating efficiently, and corrective and preventive actions are created and implemented when necessary.

• Manages vendor relationships with freight carriers, packaging and warehouse supply companies, material handling and equipment suppliers, property maintenance and building security.

• Oversee management of the Transportation Management System (TMS) which includes ensuring carrier freight rates (UPS/FEDEX/USPS) are updated accurately and timely.

• Ensures customer shipping requirements (i.e. Amazon) are met in a timely manner to avoid charge backs.

• Oversees operational relationship with our third-party in-house digital printer and ensure clients digital print needs are met.

• Ensures warehouse staff complies with safety rules, policies, procedures, and training requirements.

• Directs and coordinates capital improvement projects for two CDC warehouse facilities.

• Manages performance reviews and sets goal for department managers.

• Collaborates with Human Resources on union related policies, staffing and attendance issues.

• Assist CDC Director on implementing initiatives that support and enhance CDC’s operations and long-term goals.

• Identifies operational goals and oversees allocation of resources to meet priorities. Ensures compliance of staff with organizational, University and other relevant policies and guidelines.

• Oversees the management of human resources activities for staff and academic employees, including the academic appointment processes, hiring, orientation, performance planning and compensation, staff development, and employee relations.

• Performs other related work as needed.

Minimum Qualifications
 

Education:

Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.

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Work Experience:

Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 7+ years of work experience in a related job discipline.

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Certifications:

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Preferred Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree.

• Advanced degree.

Experience:

• Ten years of distribution and fulfillment leadership experience.

• Proven track record as a senior manager and leader in a distribution center.

• Experience working with a unionized workforce.

• Familiarity with Amazon’s shipping guidelines.

• Understanding of scholarly and academic book publishing industry.

• Knowledge of digital printing.

Certifications:

• Sig-sigma and lean management knowledge.

Preferred Competencies

• Leadership skills.

• Knowledge of book publishing function