Logistics Operations Manager
Wisconsin, US
Krones designs, develops, manufactures, and installs both machines and complete packaging lines. We have become one of the leading system suppliers for breweries and beverage producers as well as for the food, chemical and cosmetics industries. Our 20,000 employees worldwide strive for innovation and detail and ensure that each customer receives the best quality in product and service.
We are currently looking for candidates who want to make a difference and who wish to be part of our dynamic organization in the US. Krones Inc. is an equal opportunity employer.
JOB PURPOSE or JOB SUMMARY:
The Logistics Operations Manager oversees daily floor operations from Receiving through Sales Order Processing in Krones’ new 236,000 sq. ft. Logistics Center, manages a small Logistics Team at the main campus, and leads Inventory Control activities. This role supports a three‑shift operation with some weekend coverage and spends approximately 90% of their time on the floor with the Team. The manager drives Safety, Quality, Delivery, and Cost (SQDC) performance, with Safety as priority #1, maintains workplace organization using 5S principles, and leads Supervisors and Team Leads across all shifts. The position also partners closely with a 3rd‑party staffing agency, from which more than half of the associates are sourced, ensuring alignment in expectations, performance, and support. This leader is expected to lead by example through consistent floor engagement and strong communication. The role also works collaboratively across departments and occasionally with counterparts at Krones’ parent company in Germany.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES and RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Lead daily floor operations from Receiving through Sales Order Processing.
- Maintain strong on‑floor presence (approx. 90%) to coach, support, and lead by example.
- Manage Supervisors and Team Leads across three shifts.
- Work closely with the 3rd‑party staffing agency to support staffing needs, onboarding, expectations, and performance for agency associates.
- Ensuring safety is priority #1 by enforcing safe practices, addressing hazards, and reinforcing a strong safety culture.
- Oversee Inventory Control, cycle counting, and accuracy initiatives.
- Support Logistics activities at the main campus and ensure process alignment.
- Drive SQDC performance and maintain consistent workplace standards.
- Improve processes, reduce waste, and support continuous improvement.
- Partner with Customer Service, Planning, IT, Production, and other departments.
- Collaborate occasionally with global Logistics counterparts in Germany.
- Track and report key operational and inventory metrics.
- Perform any other duties as assigned.
An individual in this position must be able to successfully perform the essential duties and responsibilities listed above. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.
COMPETENCIES:
- Safety‑First Leadership
- Lead‑by‑Example Mindset
- Floor‑Based Team Engagement
- Cross‑Department Collaboration
- Inventory Control Expertise
- SQDC‑Driven Decision Making
- Coaching & Team Development
- Continuous Improvement
- Strong Cross‑Cultural Communication
MINIMUM REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain, Operations, or equivalent experience.
- 5+ years in Warehouse/Logistics operations; 2+ years in a Leadership role including leading Teams, mentoring staff, and overseeing performance and development.
- Experience managing multi‑shift operations and Inventory Control.
- Hands‑on experience with a WMS (Warehouse Management System) is required.
- Strong ERP skills and ability to lead Teams on the floor.
- Strong communication, organizational, and problem‑solving abilities.
- Demonstrated ability to lead by example and prioritize safety above all else.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- Experience in manufacturing or parts distribution.
- LEAN, Six Sigma, OSHA 10 or 30
- Experience supporting new facility ramp‑ups.
- SAP experience.
- Experience working with international or cross‑cultural Teams.
PHYSICAL / WORKING DEMANDS:
- Equipment use includes Teams meeting, PC, and Microsoft.
- Ability to read and understand both spoken and written instructions and good vision is required.
- Maintain a safe working environment and comply with all safety and environmental policies/procedures. Each employee is to place environment, health and safety requirements as the first priority in the performance of their work duties. An employee is responsible for notifying their immediate supervisor of a violation or deficiency in working conditions and for recommending corrective measures, if possible. Additionally, the employee’s immediate director is to be notified of every injury or illness or near miss.
Krones , Inc. offers an outstanding opportunity to be involved with and challenged by leading-edge technologies, further career opportunities to learn and develop skills, a flexible work schedule and a competitive salary and benefits program. Our Krones Benefits program includes a generous health/dental/vision package, and 401(k) program in addition to other benefits. Please submit your resume.
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