Director of Operations
Reports to: Chief Operating Officer (COO)
Locations Managed: 50+ Distribution Branches in North America
Industry Focus: Locksmith, Security Hardware, and Private‑Label Manufactured Products
Position Overview
The Director of Operations oversees the performance, growth, and strategic direction of a nationwide distribution network serving the locksmith and security hardware industry working with the Regional Presidents and Corporate staff. This leader ensures operational excellence across more than 50 locations, drives efficiency in supply chain and logistics, warehousing & inventory management, divisional purchasing, facility management and strengthens the company’s private‑label product strategy. The role reports to the COO to execute company‑wide initiatives, elevate customer experience, and support scalable, profitable expansion.
Key Responsibilities
Operational Leadership
- Help guide the day‑to‑day operations across 50+ distribution centers, ensuring consistent execution of service, quality, and performance standards working with the Regional Presidents and corporate staff.
- Develop and implement operational policies, SOPs, and best practices tailored to the locksmith and security hardware market.
- Develop metrics to monitor KPIs, branch performance, and operational metrics to identify opportunities for improvement and growth.
- Assist field procurement with management of inventory lifecycle and optimization of vendor discount programs.
- Utilize BI tools to conduct inventory analysis and reporting.
- Assist with assessing and managing building maintenance contracts and facility leases including evaluation of an outsourced solution for property management.
Strategic Planning & Execution
- Collaborate with the COO to shape long‑term operational strategy, including network optimization, facility expansion, and process modernization.
- Help enhance use and development of company software including the adaption of current and future tools to increase efficiency and operational excellence.
- Drive initiatives that enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve service levels across the distribution network.
- Support the growth and positioning of private‑label manufactured products through operational alignment, inventory planning, and quality control.
Team Development & Leadership
- Assist with the leadership, mentoring, and development of regional and branch management teams, fostering a culture of accountability, safety, and continuous improvement.
- Build strong cross‑functional relationships with Sales and Operations teams to ensure seamless execution.
- Oversee staffing, training, and performance management across all operational locations.
Supply Chain & Inventory Management
- Partner with supply chain and procurement teams to optimize inventory levels, forecasting accuracy, and product availability.
- Ensure private‑label products meet quality, compliance, and delivery standards across all distribution points.
- Improve warehouse layout, logistics flow, and material handling processes to maximize efficiency.
Customer Experience & Service Quality
- Ensure operational practices support exceptional customer service, fast order fulfillment, and accurate delivery.
- Implement systems and processes that reduce errors, improve turnaround times, and enhance overall customer satisfaction.
- Assist/lead with all company operational audits
Compliance, Safety & Risk Management
- Maintain compliance with federal, state, and local regulations related to distribution, warehousing, and transportation.
- Champion safety programs and ensure all locations adhere to company safety standards and protocols.
- Manage operational risk, including facility readiness, disaster recovery planning, and loss prevention.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Business, Operations Management, Supply Chain, or related field; MBA preferred.
- 10+ years of progressive leadership experience in distribution, logistics, or multi‑site operations.
- Experience in the locksmith, security hardware, or related industrial distribution sectors is a plus.
- Proven success managing large, geographically dispersed teams and 50+ locations.
- Strong understanding of private‑label product management, manufacturing coordination, and quality assurance.
- Demonstrated ability to drive operational transformation, implement systems, and scale processes.
- Excellent communication, leadership, and analytical skills.
Core Competencies
- Strategic and operational thinking
- Multi‑site leadership
- Supply chain and logistics expertise
- Financial and KPI‑driven decision‑making
- Change management
- Customer‑centric mindset
- Cross‑functional collaboration