Automated Distribution Centre Manager

Job description

About the role: Joining pre–go-live, the DC Manager will support commissioning, testing, and the development of operational processes before taking full ownership of a high-reliability, 24/7 operation. This role is suited to leaders who can build structure and discipline from first principles within a complex, technology-led environment. Working closely with OEMs and technical partners, you will ensure system performance across mechanical, process and control layers. You will also lead a small, high-performing team while holding full accountability for safety, service, cost and overall site performance (P&L). Key responsibilities Support commissioning, start-up and transition into steady-state operations, including user acceptance testing, defect identification and operational readiness activities. Hold full accountability for site performance across safety, service, throughput, uptime, cost and financial outcomes, including budgets, forecasts and EBIT. Own end-to-end flow across inbound, storage, shuffling and outbound operations within the constraints of the automated system. Build capability and accountability across a small 24×7 operations team, with particular focus on flow control, escalation and SOP adherence. Maintain a strong on-floor presence, identifying exceptions, congestion, bottlenecks and emerging risks before they escalate. Act as the primary customer-facing operational leader for service delivery, escalations and expectation management. Act as the primary operational interface with OEMs, automation vendors, WMS/WCS teams, IT support and maintenance partners. Drive continuous improvement through disciplined operation, reduction of exceptions, root cause analysis and system optimisation. About you: Must-have: Experience in an automated DC, ASRS or advanced manufacturing environment Strong understanding of WMS/WCS-driven operations Proven ability to manage end-to-end flow and real-time decision making Technical understanding of automation systems and ability to troubleshoot across mechanical, system and process issues Experience in high-risk or automated safety environments Capability to lead a small team in a 24×7 operation Demonstrated ownership of site performance and financial outcomes (P&L) Strong problem-solving capability (Lean, CI, root cause analysis) Highly desirable: Experience in greenfield start-up, commissioning or major transformation Background in ASRS, flow control or automation-heavy operations Proven ability to stabilise and optimise operations post go-live Relevant tertiary qualification in Supply Chain, Engineering, Logistics, Manufacturing or a related field (desirable). Formal training in Lean, Six Sigma or CI methodologies (desirable). Current forklift licence and/or high‑risk work exposure (advantageous). ArkNexus is launching a greenfield, fully automated distribution centre powered by a shuttle-based ASRS with high pallet density and tightly controlled system logic. This is not a traditional, labour-heavy DC leadership role. Success requires strong systems thinking, technical credibility and real-time decision making within a highly constrained automated environment. You will join during commissioning, shaping operational readiness before taking full ownership of a 24×7 automated site .