Head of Distribution / Warehouse and Purchasing Operations

We are a 65 year old company that has been providing Manufacturing Services, Distribution Services, and Sourcing/Logistics Services to Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM's) from all industries. Come Join a Company Where People Stay and Grow Your Career with Industry-Leading Benefits Head of Operations (Multi-Site Electrical / Electromechanical Manufacturing & Distribution Operations) Position Summary We are seeking a highly trusted, experienced, and hands-on Head of Operations to lead operational oversight across multiple facilities within a growing electrical and electromechanical manufacturing and distribution organization. This individual will replace a long-tenured operations executive and will play a critical leadership role in maintaining operational excellence, vendor relationships, supply chain effectiveness, facility oversight, and overall day-to-day operational execution. This position is not responsible for company Manufacturing/Production, which is headed by a VP of Manufacturing. The ideal candidate is a highly respected leader with strong industry experience, exceptional judgment, and the ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced, high-mix manufacturing environment where priorities frequently shift and decisions often involve gray-area judgment calls. This role requires regular onsite presence across facilities and strong engagement with leadership teams, suppliers, warehouse/distribution operations, freight providers, and internal departments. Primary Responsibilities Multi-Site Operational Leadership Provide operational leadership and oversight across all company facilities (currently three locations). Maintain a strong onsite operational presence and regularly travel between facilities. Ensure alignment, communication, and operational consistency between locations. Purchasing & Supply Chain Oversight Lead purchasing processes and overall procurement strategy. Provide high-level review, approval, and decision-making on purchasing requisitions, purchase orders, supplier issues, and escalations. Drive ongoing vendor cost negotiations, cost management initiatives, and supply chain risk mitigation efforts. Develop and maintain strong supplier and vendor relationships. Distribution, Warehouse & Logistics Leadership Oversee warehouse, distribution, and material flow operations. Manage freight strategy, freight carriers, shipping performance, importation coordination, and tariff-related activities. Assist in developing efficient logistics and inventory management practices across facilities. Facility & Operational Infrastructure Oversight Provide oversight for facility maintenance and operational infrastructure needs. Coordinate with internal teams and external vendors to ensure facilities remain safe, functional, and operationally efficient. Leadership & Continuous Improvement Lead, mentor, and support operational teams. Foster a culture of accountability, responsiveness, urgency, and teamwork. Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on operational efficiency, cost control, responsiveness, and scalability. Support entrepreneurial growth initiatives and operational expansion opportunities. Key Qualifications Significant experience within electrical, wire harness, electromechanical, industrial manufacturing, or related industries is strongly preferred . Proven operational leadership experience in multi-site manufacturing and/or distribution environments. Strong background in purchasing, supply chain management, logistics, freight, and vendor negotiations. Demonstrated leadership ability with strong supervisory and team development skills. Strong operational judgment and ability to effectively navigate gray-area decision making. Entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to thrive in a fast-moving, hands-on environment. Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills. Comfortable using computers, ERP systems, tablets, and standard business software tools fluidly. Ability and willingness to travel regularly between company facilities. Key Skills Skill / Attribute High Trust Level / Integrity Electrical / Electromechanical Industry Experience Leadership & Supervisory Skills Freight / Logistics Experience Continuous Improvement Mindset Entrepreneurial Spirit Team Player Mentality Ability to Travel Consistently Between Facilities Ability to Operate in Gray Areas with Strong Judgment Strong Response Time & Follow-Through Habits Strong Technical / PC / Tablet Skills Preferred Characteristics Hands-on operational leadership style. Strong sense of ownership and accountability. Calm under pressure and capable of handling changing priorities. High responsiveness and urgency. Strong relationship-builder internally and externally. Ability to gain trust quickly with employees, suppliers, and leadership teams. Practical, common-sense decision maker with high ethical standards. What We Offer (It's Seriously Good) Incredible PTO - generous vacation, holidays, and personal time 401(k) program fully vested after just 2 years Comprehensive benefits package: medical, dental, vision, life insurance and paid short term disability Stable company with long employee tenure - people love working here Growth and advancement opportunities Supportive team environment and strong leadership Competitive pay based on experience If you're ready to build a long-term career with a growing company that truly values its employees, click Apply Now and take the next step.

Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

$90,000.00 - $120,000.00 per year

Benefits:

401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Flexible spending account Health insurance Paid time off Parental leave Retirement plan Vision insurance

Experience:

leadership in

Operations:

3 years (Required) Shift availability: Day Shift (Preferred) Ability to

Commute:

Cedar Rapids, IA (Required) Willingness to travel: 25% (Required)

Work Location:

In person