Distribution Center Manager
Suffolk, VA, US, 23435
Dana is a global leader in the supply of highly engineered driveline, sealing, and thermal-management technologies that improve the efficiency and performance of vehicles with both conventional and alternative-energy powertrains. Serving two primary markets – passenger vehicle and commercial truck equipment – Dana provides the world's original-equipment manufacturers and the aftermarket with local product and service support through a network of nearly 100 engineering, manufacturing, and distribution facilities.
Job Purpose
The Distribution Center Manager oversees and optimizes the end-to-end supply chain and logistics operations to ensure timely, cost-effective, and quality delivery of materials and finished goods within an automotive manufacturing environment. This role is responsible for strategic planning, coordination of inbound and outbound logistics, inventory management, and collaboration with cross-functional teams to support production schedules and customer demands. The manager drives continuous improvement initiatives, ensures compliance with industry regulations, and leverages data-driven insights to enhance operational efficiency and support business growth.
Job Duties and Responsibilities
- Develop and implement logistics strategies that align with production schedules, customer delivery requirements, and cost-efficiency goals.
- Ensure long-term capacity planning and scalability of logistics operations.
- Manage and coordinate inbound and outbound transportation, warehousing, and material flow to support just-in-time (JIT) manufacturing.
- Collaborate with suppliers, carriers, and internal teams to ensure timely delivery of parts and finished goods.
- Oversee inventory control processes, including forecasting, cycle counts, and reconciliation.
- Ensure optimal inventory levels to support production while minimizing excess and obsolescence.
- Lead, mentor, and develop logistics staff, fostering a culture of accountability, safety, and continuous improvement.
- Set performance goals and conduct regular evaluations.
- Identify and implement process improvements using lean principles and data analytics.
- Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, company policies, and industry standards related to transportation, safety, and environmental impact.
Education and Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree or 4+ years of applicable experience
- 12+ years of experience
Skills
- Deep understanding of end-to-end supply chain processes, including transportation, warehousing, inventory control, and supplier coordination. Ability to apply lean manufacturing principles and just-in-time (JIT) logistics to support high-volume, time-sensitive production environments.
- Strong leadership skills to manage logistics teams and influence cross-functional departments such as production, procurement, and quality. Ability to communicate effectively, resolve conflicts, and drive alignment across diverse stakeholders.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class.
Unsolicited Resumes from Third-Party Recruiters
Please note that as per Dana policy, we do not accept unsolicited resumes from third-party recruiters unless such recruiters were engaged to provide candidates for a specified opening. Any employment agency, person or entity that submits an unsolicited resume does so with the understanding that Dana will have the right to hire that applicant at its discretion without any fee owed to the submitting employment agency, person or entity.
Nearest Major Market: Virginia Beach