Central Distribution Center (CDC) Manager

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced and result-oriented Central Distribution Centre Manager to oversee daily operations at our 300,000 sq. ft. central logistics facility in Tepla, Distt. Patiala, Punjab. Operating in a high-volume Third-Party Logistics (3PL) environment, the ideal candidate will bring a minimum of 7 to 10 years of hands-on warehouse and third party logistics management experience.

You will be responsible for end-to-end facility management, client SLA delivery, budget control, inventory precision, process optimization, and leading a multi-disciplinary team.

Key Roles & Responsibilities

Operations & Logistics Management

• Direct and optimize all daily inbound receiving, put-away, slotting, value-added services (VAS), order picking, packing, and outbound dispatch operations across the 300,000 sq. ft. facility.
• Oversee Material Handling Equipment (MHE) deployment and dock door scheduling to minimize turnaround times and maximize throughput.
• Implement cross-docking and lean warehousing strategies to maintain fluid operations during peak volumes.

3PL Client & Service Level Management

• Serve as the primary operational partner for 3PL clients and internal account management teams.
• Ensure strict adherence to contractual Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and Service Level Agreements (SLAs), including Order Fill Rate, On-Time Delivery, and Dock-to-Stock turnaround times.
• Prepare and present periodic operational performance reports and client-facing reviews.

Inventory Control & Space Utilization

• Maintain full ownership of inventory accuracy through continuous cycle counting, annual physical audits, and shrinkage/damage control programs.
• Continually optimize warehouse layout, slotting strategies, and cubic space utilization using ABC inventory stratification methods.

Financial & Budgetary Control

• Manage the facility's operational budget, tracking cost-per-pallet and labor costs per unit shipped.
• Optimize workforce structure by balancing permanent and contractual workforce based on seasonal demand shifts.

Systems, Automation & Continuous Improvement

• Drive full operational utilization of Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), RF scanning tools, and automated dispatch tracking systems.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives (5S, Kaizen, Lean) to streamline picking paths, reduce waste, and build process standardizations.

Safety, Compliance & Team Leadership

• Lead, mentor, and build high-performing teams across shift supervisors, inventory clerks, MHE operators, and labour teams.
• Enforce workplace safety protocols, OSHA compliance standards, and local statutory/labour regulations to maintain an incident-free environment.

Core Skills & Technical Competencies

• 3PL Expertise: In-depth knowledge of multi-client operations, shared resource allocation, and contract logistics SLA management.
• WMS Proficiency: Hands-on experience with modern Warehouse Management Systems (e.g., SAP EWM, Manhattan, High Jump, Blue Yonder, or similar enterprise software).
• MHE Fleet Management: Solid understanding of MHE operations (reach trucks, VNAs, forklifts, conveyors) and preventative maintenance planning.
• Analytical Capability: Ability to translate raw operational data into actionable insights, dashboards, and client reports.
• People Leadership: Strong team management skills with a track record of handling operational workforces of 100+ personnel.

Required Qualifications & Candidate Profile

• Experience: Minimum 7 to 10 years of progressive experience in warehouse and distribution center operations, with at least 7 to 8 years in a direct managerial role.
• Industry Background: Prior management experience specifically within 3PL, contract logistics, or multi-client distribution networks is required.
• Facility Scale: Proven track record of successfully managing large-scale facilities (200,000+ sq. ft.).
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Operations, Business Administration, or Engineering. An MBA or post-graduate diploma in Supply Chain/Logistics is highly advantageous.
• Certifications (Preferred): Six Sigma / Lean certification or APICS (CPIM/CSCP) credentials.