Operations Manager, Distribution and Logistics

Overview

Create Wellness is seeking an experienced Distribution & Logistics Manager to take charge of the daily management of product flow within our supply chain. This hands-on role is crucial to how our goods move, involving coordination of raw material shipments nationwide to manufacturing partners, managing inbound/outbound logistics via our third-party logistics provider (3PL), and ensuring timely delivery of finished products to retail and direct-to-consumer customers.

Reporting to the Director of Distribution & Logistics, you will own the operational partnership with our 3PL, driving service levels, accountability, and ongoing cost reductions.

The ideal candidate approaches challenges with determination, communicates transparently, and thrives on cross-team collaboration as a core part of our operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee scheduling and coordination of raw goods shipments across the country to co-manufacturers, suppliers, and partners.
• Manage inbound and outbound logistics through the 3PL, ensuring inventory is delivered on schedule, complete, and undamaged.
• Supervise domestic freight operations covering retailer restocking, direct-to-consumer fulfillment, and special projects.
• Maintain continuous visibility and accountability for all open shipments; monitor, flag, and resolve issues promptly.
• Act as the primary operational liaison with the 3PL partner, handling daily performance, escalation, and driving improvements.
• Enforce 3PL service level agreements, proactively identifying and addressing problems before they affect business.
• Lead logistics and fulfillment cost-saving initiatives including freight rate negotiations and process improvements.
• Manage and enhance 3PL system integrations (Warehouse Management System, Transportation Management System) to ensure smooth data exchange.
• Regularly engage with suppliers and contract manufacturers about shipment status, production timelines, and delivery expectations.
• Collaborate with Inventory Planning to align purchase order timings with lead times, minimum order quantities, and production schedules.
• Monitor supplier KPIs, maintain organized performance records, and escalate issues as needed.
• Maintain accurate distribution & logistics data including lead times, shipping documents, schedules, and order flows.
• Identify and resolve logistical exceptions rapidly through collaboration with internal teams.
• Support ongoing ERP stability and enhancement efforts.
• Partner cross-functionally with Inventory Planning, Finance, Sales, and Brand teams to align logistics activities with wider business goals.
• Provide proactive, clear communication to stakeholders with solution-focused updates and no surprises.
• Contribute to operational process refinements that enable scaling of the team.

Candidate Profile

• Determined problem solver who takes initiative to resolve issues without waiting for direction.
• Consistent punctuality and respect for deadlines and commitments.
• Effective at giving and receiving direct, constructive feedback with respect.
• Collaborative mindset, understanding that close cooperation across functions ensures smooth logistics execution.
• Detail-oriented yet capable of maintaining a strategic overview.

Requirements

• 3 to 4+ years of professional experience in logistics, distribution, supply chain, or operations, preferably within consumer packaged goods, wellness, food & beverage, or physical product industries.
• Practical experience managing domestic freight, 3PL partnerships, and complex shipment scheduling.
• Proven skills in vendor relationship management, including accountability enforcement, negotiation, and performance enhancement.
• Familiarity with ERP systems and advanced proficiency in spreadsheet tools such as Excel or Google Sheets; experience with WMS and TMS platforms is advantageous.
• Strong communication abilities: clear, direct, and proactive engagement with suppliers, partners, and internal colleagues.
• Comfortable operating in a dynamic, fast-paced environment with ambiguity and change.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation package with bonus and equity components.
• Comprehensive health insurance fully covered.
• 401(k) retirement savings plan.
• Quarterly wellness stipend of $250.
• Work-from-home Fridays.
• Modern office location in downtown New York City.
• Additional perks introduced continuously.