Job Description

Are you a strong leader with expertise in the operational functions of a distribution warehouse? If so, Summit has an opportunity for an OPERATIONS MANAGER in Fort Worth,TX!

Summit is looking for someone to ensure our Houston Service Center has the capacity, efficiency, and cost-to-serve characteristics necessary to meet Summit’s business objectives and the demands of Summit’s customers.  In doing so you will support Summit’s business imperative of pursuing profitable growth in every market we serve.  

As the Operations Manager you will give direction to branch operational functions including Customer Service Representatives (inside sales), Counter Sales Associates, and Administrative Associates.  One of your key responsibilities will be to work with the sales manager in support of the sales team by aligning resources to support sales growth and key initiatives. Another is to effectively train and grow a knowledgeable and talented inside sales force.  You will use good judgment to “make it right” with specific customer orders, ensure extraordinary customer service is delivered, and maintain Summit service standards.  

YOUR PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES WILL BE:

Coordination and Supervision

• Provide overall leadership for Service Center Operations.  Lead by example to instill Summit mission and values.
• Work closely with Solution Center leadership to ensure customer expectations are met.
• Provide training, coaching, and accountability for associate performance to achieve overall operational effectiveness.
• Coordinate team and individual metrics setting in alignment with Summit’s overall business objectives, operational initiatives, and the market sales plan and budget.
• Communicate effectively and frequently with all direct reports regarding goals, expectations and other work-related issues. Create motivational programs to support gains in key performance metrics.

Financial

• Review financial data and reporting related to key metrics including sales activity, customer contact and follow-up frequency, quoting activity, gross margin, pricing, inventory, overstock and dead stock, turns, and customer satisfaction data (NPS) making recommendations in line with driving sales performance, reducing cost-to-serve, and maximizing gross margin.
• Determine actions necessary to optimize inventory in a way that corresponds to market conditions and sales forecasts.
• Oversee budget management related to local operational activities including headcount, company assets, maintenance and repair, and third party contracts.
• Identify and implement expense reductions where appropriate. Coordinate with Operations team on facility and equipment maintenance/repairs, upgrades.  Ensure cost saving activities are in place for office expenses.

Best Practices

• Improve processes and policies in support of organization goals.  Formulate and implement departmental policies and procedures to maximize efficiency and output. 
• Identify and deliver process and productivity improvements through enthusiastic leadership of quality programs such as Lean and 5S.
• Emphasis should be on leveraging operational functions in innovative and creative ways that provide measurable value to customers.

Human Resources

• Participate in hiring, training, disciplining, rewarding and terminating team members. 
• Coordinate associate development in key developmental areas including sales skills, product knowledge, systems proficiency, and understanding of and compliance with Summit Way processes and procedures.
• Prepare for future growth through robust participation in Summit’s succession planning process.

Sales, Marketing, and Customer Service

• Work with local sales leadership to establish market and customer strategies that drive profitable share growth and participate in sales presentations of Summit’s operational capabilities to key customers. 
• Ensure timely and accurate information in response to customer requirements, challenges, issues, and information requests.  Resolve customer concerns as efficiently and effectively as possible.

Strategic Input

• Based on analysis of performance metrics, give input on capital spending decisions related to operational and supply chain optimization. 
• Make recommendations to leverage operational functions in innovative and creative ways that create competitive advantages and provide additional revenue streams for Summit.

Qualifications

AS A QUALIFIED CANDIDATE YOU WILL HAVE:

• 5 years or more of proven successful experience in inside sales, operations, or comparable position with Summit or a similar organization.
• Experience successfully leading in a matrix-managed organization.  Demonstrated ability to manage, develop, and motivate teams. 
• Ability to recommend and implement timely, strategic decisions based on solid analysis and key performance metrics.
• Demonstrated competency in driving process improvements.  Experience with Lean, 5S, or Six Sigma preferred.
• Highly effective user of ERP systems (preferably SAP) and BI tools.
• Strong customer service orientation – both external and internal.
• Proven track record of systematically recruiting and developing talent in organizations.
• Unwavering commitment to Summit values and mission.
• Positive, “whatever it takes” attitude toward work and career with Summit.

BENEFICIAL SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE TO BE SUCCESSFUL:

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Industrial Distribution, Business, Finance, or equivalent.
• Previous successful experience in SAP. 
• Extensive familiarity with Summit’s suppliers and knowledge of products purchased by Summit’s customers.
• Completion of Bronze, Silver, or Gold of the National Association of Electrical Distributors’ Education Program (EPEC).
• Significant customer service experience in the electrical distribution industry.

PHYSICAL CHALLENGES

• Ability to operate all warehouse equipment
• Ability to perform the same physical tasks as customer service representatives, counter sales associates and warehouse associates. 
• Ability to lift 35+ pounds on a regular basis
• Consistent sitting for long periods of time
• Consistent use of keyboard and mouse

Additional Information

Not sure yet if this is the right position for you? Contact a recruiter for more information about the position and how you can jump start your career in a dynamic, growing industry today!

BE A PART OF THE SUMMIT ELECTRIC FAMILY WITH ROOM TO GROW AND EXCEL!

As an equal opportunity employer, Summit is dedicated to serving our customers, associates, suppliers, and local communities through inclusion, mutual respect, and merit. We do not base any hiring or employment decisions on sex, race, color, religion, national origin, pregnancy, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or age.