Warehouse Director - Sysco Chicago, Des Plaines, Illinois

Role Overview

The Warehouse Director at Sysco Chicago is a critical leadership position responsible for overseeing all aspects of inbound and outbound warehouse operations. This role demands a strategic thinker with a strong operational background, capable of managing a large team, optimizing processes, and ensuring the efficient and safe handling of products. The Warehouse Director will ensure compliance with all relevant regulations and maintain a high level of service to meet customer demands.

A Day in the Life

A typical day for the Warehouse Director involves a variety of responsibilities aimed at maintaining smooth and efficient warehouse operations. This includes:

• Morning Briefing: Start the day with a briefing from the Inbound and Outbound Warehouse Managers to review overnight activities, identify any issues, and plan for the day's workload.
• Performance Review: Analyze key performance indicators (KPIs) related to receiving, order selection, and loading to identify areas for improvement.
• Vendor Coordination: Communicate with third-party vendors (e.g., lumping services) to ensure smooth operations and compliance with agreements.
• Budget Management: Review and manage labor hours, consumable supplies, and other expenses within the allocated budget.
• Safety Inspections: Conduct or oversee safety inspections to ensure a safe working environment and compliance with regulations.
• Employee Engagement: Interact with warehouse associates to address concerns, provide updates, and foster a positive work environment.
• Problem Solving: Address any operational challenges or disruptions, working with the team to find effective solutions.
• Strategic Planning: Participate in strategic planning sessions to identify opportunities for process improvement and cost reduction.
• Compliance Checks: Ensure all required documentation (HACCP, food safety, catch-weight) is accurately completed and that materials are handled and stored correctly.
• Reporting: Prepare and review reports on warehouse performance for senior management.

Why Des Plaines, Illinois?

Des Plaines, Illinois, offers a strategic location for Sysco Chicago, providing access to a large customer base and a skilled workforce. The area boasts a robust transportation infrastructure, facilitating efficient distribution. Des Plaines also offers a high quality of life with excellent schools, diverse communities, and numerous recreational opportunities, making it an attractive place for employees and their families. The proximity to Chicago provides access to a wide range of cultural and entertainment options.

Career Path

The Warehouse Director position offers significant opportunities for career advancement within Sysco. Potential career paths include:

• Senior Director of Operations: Overseeing multiple warehouse locations or expanding responsibilities within the supply chain.
• Vice President of Operations: Leading all operational aspects of a region or business unit.
• Supply Chain Management Roles: Transitioning into roles focused on strategic supply chain planning and optimization.
• Executive Leadership: Progressing into executive leadership positions within Sysco based on performance and experience.

Salary & Benefits

The estimated salary range for the Warehouse Director position in Des Plaines, Illinois, is $95,000 to $150,000 annually. Sysco also offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Retirement Plans: 401(k) with company match.
• Paid Time Off: Vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
• Employee Assistance Program: Confidential counseling and support services.
• Tuition Reimbursement: Financial assistance for continuing education.
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan: Opportunity to purchase Sysco stock at a discounted rate.

For more detailed information on Sysco’s benefits, please visit https://SyscoBenefits.com.

Sysco Culture

Sysco is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees feel valued and respected. The company emphasizes teamwork, collaboration, and a customer-focused approach. Sysco also prioritizes employee development, providing opportunities for training, mentorship, and career advancement. The company's core values include integrity, excellence, teamwork, and a commitment to safety.

How to Apply

Interested candidates are encouraged to apply online through the Sysco careers website. The application process involves submitting a resume, completing an online application form, and potentially participating in virtual or in-person interviews. Be prepared to discuss your experience in warehouse management, leadership skills, and your approach to problem-solving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What are the key responsibilities of a Warehouse Director at Sysco?

   The Warehouse Director oversees all aspects of inbound and outbound warehouse operations, manages warehouse staff, ensures compliance with safety regulations, and optimizes processes for efficiency and cost reduction.

2. What qualifications are required for this role?

   A bachelor's degree in a related field is preferred, along with significant experience in warehouse management, strong leadership skills, and a thorough understanding of safety regulations and best practices.

3. What is the career path for a Warehouse Director at Sysco?

   Potential career paths include Senior Director of Operations, Vice President of Operations, roles in Supply Chain Management, and executive leadership positions within Sysco.

4. What is the salary range for this position?

   The estimated salary range for the Warehouse Director position in Des Plaines, Illinois, is $95,000 to $150,000 annually.

5. What benefits does Sysco offer to its employees?

   Sysco offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, employee assistance programs, tuition reimbursement, and an employee stock purchase plan.

6. What is the company culture like at Sysco?

   Sysco fosters a diverse and inclusive workplace that emphasizes teamwork, collaboration, and a customer-focused approach. The company prioritizes employee development and values integrity, excellence, and safety.

7. How does Sysco ensure warehouse safety?

   Sysco coordinates efforts with the Safety department to aid in training, conduct associate observations, update preferred work methods, conduct accident investigations to determine root causes, and perform routine safety inspections.

8. What is the role of the Warehouse Director in vendor management?

   The Warehouse Director develops business relationships to ensure communication and efficient operations with third-party vendors, including maintaining current certificates of insurance and hold harmless agreements for all contracted vendors.

9. How does Sysco support employee engagement?

   Sysco maintains open communication channels with associates by answering questions and explaining policies and procedures, monitors associate morale, and solicits and responds to ideas to improve associate engagement and enablement.

10. What software systems are used in Sysco warehouses?

    Sysco uses and updates receiving, selection, and loading software systems to ensure efficient warehouse operations.