Distribution Center Operations Manager

Job Posting: Since 1953, Ferguson has been a source of quality supplies for a variety of industries. Together We Build Better infrastructure, better homes and better businesses. We exist to make our customers’ complex projects simple, successful, and sustainable. We proactively solve problems, adapt and grow to continuously serve our customers, communities and each other. Ferguson, a Fortune 500 company, is proud to provide best-in-class products, service and capabilities across the following industries: Commercial/Mechanical, Facilities Supply, Fire and Fabrication, HVAC, Industrial, Residential Trade, Residential Building and Remodel, Waterworks and Residential Digital Commerce. Ferguson has approximately 36,000 associates across 1,700 locations. Ferguson is a community of proud associates who operate with the shared purpose of building something meaningful. You will build a career that you are proud of, at a company you can believe in. Ferguson is now hiring an Operations Manager to guide business operations at our Richland, WA Distribution Center ! Position Summary: The Operations Manager is responsible for driving operational excellence, inventory accuracy, and process standards across the distribution center’s subject area. This role leads quality programs, audit processes, inventory control functions, and data-driven performance improvement initiatives while ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory standards. This position plays a critical leadership role in developing teams, improving system integrity, and supporting overall DC performance through analytics, accountability, and continuous improvement. Key Responsibilities: Quality Leadership & Continuous Improvement: Lead and complete quality assurance programs, audits, and SOP compliance initiatives Drive continuous improvement projects to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and service levels Monitor KPIs, scorecards, and operational performance metrics Ensure adherence to company safety, quality, and compliance standards Inventory Control & Cycle Count Management: Own cycle count execution, daily status tracking, and audit compliance Oversee reconciliation processes, variance analysis, and inventory accuracy initiatives Manage monthly reconciliation reporting and communicate results to leadership and associates Coordinate inventory events, including 6-month inventory counts and product movements Lead QA location audits and inventory integrity programs Data Analytics & Performance Management: Apply systems (e.g., Easy Metrics, WMS) to monitor efficiency and identify improvement opportunities Audit labor performance, missing time, downtime, and system accuracy Analyze data trends and provide actionable insights to leadership Maintain reporting cadence for progress, incentives, and operational performance Operations & Process Oversight: Support operational systems including TMS, order tracking, and inventory systems Drive process improvements in slotting, configuration, and workflow efficiency Conduct internal audits, and system/process validations Serve as point of contact for critical issues involving inventory, system, and operational matters Team Leadership & Development: Lead, coach, and develop associates across inventory control and quality functions Build bench strength through training, cross-training, and performance management Facilitate team meetings, performance reviews, and communication sessions Support hiring, onboarding, and new hire evaluations Address associate concerns in partnership with HR Vendor & Program Management (Merit): Manage container and supply needs to support operations Audit and approve vendor invoices (container and labor) Identify operational hot spots and prioritize improvement focus areas Track and communicate Merit program status and performance Safety, Compliance & Security: Ensure adherence to safety programs, audits, and regulatory requirements Lead or support safety initiatives including audits, training, and certifications (CPR, Hazmat, IMDG) Maintain Hazardous Waste program, inspections, and reporting Support CTPAT compliance including audits, certifications, and retraining Act as program owner for Heat Illness Prevention (HIPP) Administrative & Cross-Functional Support: Coordinate reporting for inventory adjustments, reconciliation, and finance alignment Maintain communication dashboards and visual performance tracking Partner with IT as a backup support resource and for system issue resolution Participate in interviews, engagement initiatives, and site leadership activities Required Qualifications: 5+ years of experience in distribution, warehouse operations, quality, or inventory control Proven experience with inventory management, auditing, and process improvement Strong analytical skills with experience using data systems (e.g., WMS, Easy Metrics, Excel) Leadership experience developing teams in a fast-paced environment Knowledge of safety and compliance standards in a warehouse setting Location Flexibility: Successful candidates must demonstrate a willingness to relocate to various U.S. locations throughout their career to support organizational needs and advancement opportunities. Preferred Qualifications: Experience with Labor Management Systems (Easy Metrics or similar) Background in quality assurance, continuous improvement, or Lean practices Familiarity with CTPAT, Hazmat, or regulatory compliance programs Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Operations, or related field, or equivalent experience At Ferguson, we care for each other. We value our well-being just as much as our hard work. We are committed to a holistic approach towards benefits plans and programs that support the mental, physical and financial well-being of our associates. Our competitive offering not only includes benefits like health, dental, vision, paid time off, life insurance an