About this role
Yazak is a global leader in the research, development and delivery of vehicle power and data solutions.Yazaki works with virtually every major auto manufacturer in the world, and we've strived to maintain strategic and stable growth throughout our 83-year history. Today, we're on the lookout for energetic people with the potential to perform, as well as the ability to strengthen - and thrive in - the positive work environment we pride ourselves on.
Yazaki is a global leader in the research, development and delivery of vehicle power and data solutions.
Yazaki works with virtually every major auto manufacturer in the world, and we've strived to maintain strategic and stable growth throughout our 83-year history. Today, we're on the lookout for energetic people with the potential to perform, as well as the ability to strengthen - and thrive in - the positive work environment we pride ourselves on.
Location: La Vergne, TN, USA
POSITION SUMMARY
The Distribution Supervisor is responsible for providing daily operational direction, feedback, coaching, and leadership within the Distribution Center. This position oversees key operational functions, including:
- Parts Control
- Warehousing
- Sequencing
- Repack Operations
- Inventory Control
The Distribution Supervisor serves as a key communicator of company processes, policies, and administrative matters while setting a positive example for all associates. This role is responsible for ensuring customer satisfaction, promoting continuous improvement, maintaining operational efficiency, and supporting departmental and organizational objectives.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Leadership & Associate Development
- Ensure proper training and maintain training documentation for all department associates.
- Plan and coordinate associate work schedules.
- Supervise direct reports and oversee daily activities.
- Provide ongoing guidance, coaching, counseling, and performance feedback.
- Prepare and conduct associate performance evaluations.
- Address and resolve associate administrative and personal concerns.
- Promote teamwork, accountability, and professional development.
2. Distribution Center Operations
- Oversee daily operations within assigned departments.
- Order necessary services, supplies, and minor equipment.
- Prepare operational reports as required.
- Manage operational expenses related to the facility or department.
- Assist with the preparation and maintenance of annual budgets.
- Identify and resolve shortages, damages, and inventory discrepancies.
- Maintain accurate departmental records and documentation.
- Ensure proper storage, handling, and maintenance of equipment.
3. Customer Service & Quality
- Communicate directly with internal and external Yazaki customers.
- Address and resolve customer concerns, issues, and complaints.
- Ensure compliance with Customer Specific Requirements (CSRs).
- Support customer satisfaction through efficient and accurate operations.
- Identify opportunities to improve service quality and operational performance.
4. Safety, Compliance & Continuous Improvement
- Promote and maintain a safe, clean, and organized working environment.
- Ensure compliance with corporate and departmental policies.
- Support Environmental Management System (EMS) policies and procedures.
- Support Quality Management System (QMS) policies and procedures.
- Enforce applicable health and safety policies.
- Encourage continuous improvement initiatives throughout the department.
- Assist management in achieving corporate and departmental goals and objectives.
5. Administrative & Management Support
- Assist the Facility or Department Manager as directed.
- Communicate departmental processes, policies, and administrative updates.
- Prepare and maintain required operational documentation.
- Collaborate effectively with associates, management, and cross-functional teams.
- Demonstrate strong interpersonal skills beyond routine instruction and communication.
REQUIRED SYSTEMS & TECHNICAL KNOWLEDGE
Candidates should demonstrate knowledge and practical application of the following systems:
- Microsoft Office Applications (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook)
- SAP
- Customer-Specific Parts Control Systems
- Global Quality Reporting System (GQRS)
POSITION REQUIREMENTS
Category
Requirements
Education
Bachelor's degree or four years of leadership experience preferred
Certification
Forklift Certification
Preferred Experience
3+ years as a Yazaki Team Lead or 4+ years of external supervisory experience, preferably in a warehouse environment
Language
English proficiency required
Travel
Domestic and international travel may be required between Yazaki facilities, customer locations, and manufacturing sites
On-Call Availability
24/7 availability, including weekends and holidays
Physical Requirements
Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.
REQUIRED SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS
Skill
Expected Proficiency
Customer-Specific Requirements
Advanced
Written Communication
Advanced
Verbal Communication
Advanced
Problem Solving
Advanced
Conflict Resolution
Advanced
Judgment & Decision-Making
Advanced
Customer Service
Advanced
Organizational Skills
Advanced
Time Management
Advanced
Presentation Skills
Intermediate
Meeting Facilitation
Intermediate
Team Leadership
Advanced
Supervision
Advanced
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FUNCTIONAL COMPETENCIES
Adaptability & Composure
- Ability to remain composed while managing competing priorities, tight deadlines, and multiple simultaneous projects.
Technical & Computer Proficiency
- Ability to effectively utilize word-processing applications, spreadsheets, and business systems.
Attention to Detail
- Ability to maintain accuracy when reviewing data, preparing documentation, and managing interruptions.
Interpersonal & Communication Skills
- Ability to communicate effectively with associates, leadership, and cross-functional teams.
- Demonstrated ability to deliver presentations, motivate teams, and build organizational relationships.
Leadership & Staff Development
- Ability to provide direction, coordinate activities, review performance, and support associate development.
Analytical Thinking
- Ability to perform tasks requiring concentration, accuracy, and sound judgment.
Problem Solving & Continuous Improvement
- Ability to evaluate processes, identify operational weaknesses, and implement effective solutions.
Supply Chain Knowledge
- Understanding of international supply chain operations, distribution processes, and customer requirements.
LEADERSHIP COMPETENCIES
The Distribution Supervisor is expected to demonstrate the following leadership capabilities:
- Establishes Vision & Direction – Communicates clear departmental objectives and expectations.
- Customer Driven – Prioritizes customer satisfaction and service excellence.
- Global Focus – Understands the impact of operations across the broader supply chain.
- Consensus Building – Encourages collaboration and effective decision-making.
- Builds Organizational Support – Develops strong working relationships across departments.
- Seeks Continuous Improvement – Identifies and implements opportunities for operational improvement.
- Team Leadership – Leads, motivates, and supports associates in achieving team objectives.
- Develops Self & Others – Encourages learning, professional growth, and performance development.
- Results Orientation – Demonstrates accountability for meeting operational and performance goals.
- Makes Tough Decisions – Exercises sound judgment when addressing complex operational and personnel matters.
A relocation package will not be offered for this position.
Candidates must reside in the Tennessee area.
Yazaki North America is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all persons regardless of race, color, religion, sex, age, marital status, national origin, disability, handicap, veteran status, or other legally protected status or characteristic. Equal opportunity extends to all aspects of the employment relationship. Yazaki North America complies with federal and state equal employment opportunity laws and strives to keep the workplace free from all forms of harassment.