Start-Up Operations Manager, DTC Launch

Job Description

What we need

Exol is seeking an experienced operations manager to lead day-to-day execution for highly automated fulfillment sites during pre-launch, go-live, and stabilization. As the primary operational owner, you will ensure integrated capability testing and high-density storage systems meet fast-paced e-commerce demands.

We require a manager with deep experience in e-commerce, or DTC, fulfillment and 3PL operations who can manage large-scale teams while project managing their business unit. You must be adept at translating complex automation workflows—preferably with AutoStore or similar goods-to-person technologies—into repeatable launch playbooks that drive network scalability.

What we do

Exol* is pioneering warehousing-as-a-service, offering outsourced warehousing operations, and specializing in automated warehousing solutions. Our focus is on the efficient movement of goods in cases and pallets across all sectors, such as wholesale, retail, and general merchandising.

*Exol is an independently managed joint venture between Symbotic and Softbank.

What you’ll do

• Operational Capability Testing: Execute Site Acceptance Testing (SAT) and integrated operational capability testing alongside engineering to validate that high-density robotics and automated picking systems meet DTC requirements.

• DTC Business Ownership: Serve as the primary operational owner for DTC warehouse functions during launch, managing high-velocity workflows from receiving and put-away to individual unit picking, packing, and carrier-sorted shipping.

• Playbook Development: Support the creation and refinement of the launch playbook by documenting lessons learned and standardizing work processes for future site replicability.

• Large-Scale Team Leadership: Oversee the day-to-day execution of warehouse operations, directing large teams of hourly associates and frontline leaders to achieve high-volume throughput targets.

• System Validation: Validate WMS/WES functionality and monitor real-time system transactions to troubleshoot order-flow bottlenecks and ensure inventory accuracy.

• Safety Leadership: Drive organizational safety protocols by enforcing OSHA compliance and conducting audits to ensure employees follow proper guidelines in a fast-moving start-up environment.

• Project Management: Manage business-specific launch priorities, including labor planning, shift balancing, and coordinating with cross-functional partners in IT, Supply Chain, and Automation.

What we need

• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain, Logistics, Business, Engineering, or equivalent experience preferred.

• Minimum 8 years of experience in 3PL warehouse or distribution center operations, specifically in high-volume DTC or e-commerce fulfillment.

• Advanced exposure to automated warehouse environments—specifically AutoStore or similar robotic goods-to-person systems—and direct experience with WMS/WES platforms.

• Working knowledge of OSHA standards and experience driving safety protocols (e.g., LOTO and fall protection) with vendors and employees.

• Demonstrated ability to drive launch-critical KPIs, including units per hour (UPH), order accuracy, OEE, and cost-per-unit.

• Strong ability to respond quickly to operational constraints and implement corrective actions in real time.

Preferred

• Project Management: Proven experience project managing business units through ramp-up or peak environments.

• Automation Testing: Hands-on experience with operational testing and acceptance protocols for complex automated fulfillment systems.

• Process Improvement: Experience identifying inefficiencies and implementing Lean improvements or standard work.

Our environment

• Up to 80% travel may be required. Employees must have a valid driver’s license and the ability to drive and/or fly to client and other customer locations.

• The employee is responsible for owning a credit card and managing expenses personally to be reimbursed on a bi-weekly basis.

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