Senior Distribution Center Manager

Description

Pet Food Experts | DC Site Leader

Location: Fontana, CA
Salary Range: $135,000–$150,000 annually

At Pet Food Experts, we are passionate about delivering best-in-class service across a growing network of partners, from independent pet retailers to larger-scale operations. As our business continues to evolve, so does the complexity and impact of our Distribution Centers.

We are looking for a Senior Distribution Manager to lead our Fontana, CA Distribution Center with both strategy and action, driving performance while staying deeply connected to the day-to-day operation.

Our Fontana facility spans 157,000 square feet , including a 13,000-square-foot freezer currently undergoing expansion. This role offers the opportunity to lead an established operation, strengthen transportation and distribution performance, and continue developing an experienced leadership team.

This position is ideal for a hands-on operator and approachable, collaborative leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment, embraces continuous improvement, and knows how to balance accountability, engagement, and execution.

What You'll Do

As the Senior Distribution Manager, you will oversee all aspects of Distribution Center performance, ensuring excellence across safety, people, quality, delivery, and cost. You will:

- Lead all operational, financial, and administrative functions of the DC
- Deliver on key performance indicators including Safety, People, Quality, Delivery, and Cost
- Build, coach, and develop an experienced leadership team, elevating performance while fostering engagement and accountability
- Create staffing and labor plans while driving efficient workflows across inbound, outbound, transportation, and inventory teams
- Oversee transportation and routing operations, identifying opportunities to improve efficiency, service, and compliance
- Stay close to the operation, stepping in when needed and leading from the floor, not just the office
- Foster a culture of engagement, accountability, and continuous improvement
- Partner cross-functionally to ensure on-time, accurate delivery to customers
- Drive Lean, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement initiatives to remove waste, improve efficiency, and strengthen operational performance
- Support operational growth and facility improvements while maintaining safety, productivity, and service standards

How You Lead

This role requires more than operational expertise. We are looking for a leader who:

- Is a hands-on operator who isn't afraid to roll up their sleeves
- Leads with an approachable, collaborative, team-first mindset
- Knows how to engage an experienced team, introduce new ideas, and build buy-in for change
- Balances high expectations with strong support, coaching, and leadership development
- Creates accountability while maintaining team engagement and morale
- Champions continuous improvement and challenges the status quo constructively
- Is flexible and willing to adjust their schedule (early mornings, evenings) based on business needs
- Leads by example and sets the tone for performance, culture, and professionalism

What You Bring

- 5+ years of leadership experience in distribution, warehousing, or logistics operations
- Experience across warehouse operations, inventory, shipping, and receiving
- Strong understanding of transportation, routing, and regulatory compliance; DOT/CDL knowledge preferred
- Proven ability to lead teams, drive performance, and develop leaders
- Experience implementing Lean, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies preferred
- Experience working in a union environment preferred
- Bilingual capabilities preferred
- Bachelor's degree preferred

Why Pet Food Experts?

At PFX, we don't just move product, we build relationships, develop people, and create a culture rooted in our values:

Family. Inclusion. Dependability. Curiosity. Humility.

You'll be part of a team that cares deeply about doing the right thing, working hard, and having fun along the way.

Benefits & Perks of Being Part of the PFX Pack

- Competitive Compensation
- Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage
- Retirement Savings with Employer Match
- Flexible Time Off
- Paid Parental Leave
- Company-Paid Life & Disability Insurance
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Pet Perks & Product Discounts
- Additional Voluntary Benefits

Pet Food Experts is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive, respectful workplace.

All employment offers are contingent upon completion of a background check.