Director of Operations at Skechers: Lead the Way in European Distribution

Role Overview

As the Director of Operations for Skechers' European Distribution Center in Milmort, Belgium, you will be at the helm of ensuring seamless and efficient logistics across the continent. This pivotal role demands a seasoned professional with a robust background in warehouse and distribution center management, coupled with exceptional leadership and strategic capabilities. Your mission will be to optimize productivity, maintain impeccable quality, enforce stringent safety standards, adhere to budgetary guidelines, and consistently elevate customer satisfaction. Reporting directly to senior leadership, you will translate the company’s overarching strategies into tangible, actionable operational plans. Your responsibilities will encompass overseeing all facets of the distribution center, from receiving and storage to order preparation and final shipment. Furthermore, you will be instrumental in fostering a culture of continuous improvement, embracing digitalization, and ensuring compliance with all regulatory requirements.

A Day in the Life

Imagine starting your day by reviewing the operational dashboard, meticulously analyzing key performance indicators (KPIs) such as on-time delivery rates, order accuracy, and throughput. You then lead a morning meeting with your team of operational managers, discussing the previous day's performance, identifying any bottlenecks, and strategizing solutions to enhance efficiency. Throughout the day, you collaborate closely with various departments, including Finance, HR, IT, and Purchasing, to ensure seamless integration and alignment of goals. You engage in union negotiations, fostering positive labor relations and addressing any concerns that may arise. A significant portion of your time is dedicated to identifying and implementing optimization projects, leveraging LEAN principles and automation to streamline workflows. You also conduct regular safety audits, ensuring that all protocols are followed and that the distribution center maintains a safe working environment for all employees. You review incident reports, implement corrective actions, and proactively seek ways to prevent future occurrences.

Why Milmort, Belgium?

Milmort, located in the province of Liège, Belgium, is strategically positioned as a central hub for European distribution. Its proximity to major transportation networks, including highways, railways, and airports, makes it an ideal location for efficiently serving customers across Europe. The region boasts a skilled workforce and a supportive business environment, making it an attractive location for companies looking to establish or expand their operations. Living and working in Milmort offers a unique blend of cultural experiences and professional opportunities. The area is known for its rich history, picturesque landscapes, and vibrant culinary scene. Residents enjoy a high quality of life, with access to excellent healthcare, education, and recreational facilities.

Career Path

This Director of Operations role is a significant step in a rewarding career path within Skechers. Successful performance in this position can lead to advancement opportunities within the company's European operations or even at the global level. Potential career progression could include roles such as: * Senior Director of Operations * Vice President of Distribution * Chief Operating Officer (COO) Skechers is committed to fostering employee growth and development, providing ample opportunities for training, mentorship, and advancement. The company values its employees and invests in their success, creating a supportive and collaborative work environment. ## Salary and Benefits While the exact salary for this position is dependent on experience and qualifications, the estimated salary range for a Director of Operations in Milmort, Belgium is between $120,000 and $180,000 USD annually. In addition to a competitive salary, Skechers offers a comprehensive benefits package, including: * Comprehensive health insurance * Generous paid time off (PTO) policy * Employee discount on Skechers products * Retirement savings plan with company match * Professional development opportunities * Employee assistance program (EAP) * Life insurance * Disability insurance * Wellness programs * On-site gym or gym membership * Commuting assistance * Relocation assistance (if applicable) * Performance-based bonuses * Stock options (for eligible employees) * Paid parental leave * Flexible work arrangements * Opportunities for advancement within the company * A supportive and inclusive work environment * Employee recognition programs * Team-building events and activities ## Skechers Culture Skechers is renowned for its dynamic and inclusive company culture. The company fosters a collaborative environment where teamwork, innovation, and creativity are highly valued. Employees are encouraged to share their ideas, take initiative, and contribute to the company's success. Skechers is also committed to giving back to the community, supporting various charitable organizations and initiatives. The company actively promotes diversity and inclusion, creating a welcoming and respectful workplace for all employees. ## How to Apply If you are a highly motivated and experienced operations leader with a passion for excellence, we encourage you to apply for the Director of Operations position at Skechers. To apply, please submit your resume and cover letter through the Skechers careers website. Be sure to highlight your relevant experience, skills, and qualifications. ## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) **1. What are the key performance indicators (KPIs) for this role?** The primary KPIs include on-time shipping rate, order accuracy, productivity targets, safety incident reduction, and adherence to the operating budget. **2. What experience is required with WMS/WCS systems?** Proficiency in automated environments and WMS/WCS management is essential, ideally with experience in PKMS/Pyramid systems. **3. How large of a team will I be managing?** You will be managing teams of several hundred employees, including operational managers. **4. What is the company's policy on work-life balance?** Skechers is committed to providing flexible work arrangements and supports a healthy work-life balance for its employees. **5. What opportunities are there for professional development?** Skechers offers numerous opportunities for professional development, including training programs, mentorship, and leadership development initiatives. **6. How does Skechers support employee well-being?** Skechers offers wellness programs, employee assistance programs (EAPs), and on-site gym facilities or gym memberships to support employee well-being. **7. What is the company's approach to diversity and inclusion?** Skechers is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees feel valued and respected. **8. What is the process for union negotiations?** You will be responsible for preparing and leading meetings with union representatives and managing negotiations in a fair and transparent manner. **9. What is the company's policy on employee recognition?** Skechers has employee recognition programs to acknowledge and reward outstanding performance and contributions. **10. What are the opportunities for advancement within Skechers?** Skechers provides ample opportunities for advancement within the company, based on performance and career goals.