Vice President of Operations

JM Search has been retained by a confidential client company in Houston, TX to recruit for a Vice President of Operations. This role is with the client company, which functions in supply chain, particularly in industrial distribution.

Position Summary:

The Vice President of Operations is a senior leader responsible for the full operational lifecycle of the company’s industrial distribution business. This includes international sourcing, purchasing, materials management, and oversight of a multi-warehouse distribution network. The VP of Operations ensures materials are sourced effectively, inventories are optimized, and products are delivered efficiently to customers across international markets. This role is both strategic and hands‑on, requiring cross‑functional collaboration and a strong command of global supply chain operations.

• Lead international sourcing efforts for industrial products from global suppliers and materials groups.
• Negotiate vendor contracts, pricing, terms, and lead times to ensure supply continuity and cost optimization.
• Develop supplier relationships and manage performance, quality, and compliance.
• Align sourcing strategy with operational needs and product specifications.
• Oversee purchasing activities including forecasting, purchase order execution, and supplier coordination.
• Manage inbound shipments, customs documentation, and vendor lead time tracking.
• Ensure timely and accurate material flow into the company’s warehouse network.
• Monitor and improve inventory accuracy and turnover rates.

• Direct the operations of four distribution centers, with four warehouse managers/directors reporting to this role.
• Provide leadership, operational guidance, and performance management to warehouse leaders.
• Ensure fulfillment processes are standardized, efficient, and aligned with customer service requirements.
• Coordinate outbound logistics to domestic and international customers.

• Oversee company‑wide inventory planning, levels, and visibility across all locations.
• Partner with sales and finance teams to align supply with demand forecasts and service expectations.
• Implement metrics to track inventory turns, excess/obsolete inventory, and fulfillment KPIs.
• Develop and execute operational strategies to support growth, cost efficiency, and global distribution capabilities.
• Implement process improvements across sourcing, purchasing, and warehouse operations.
• Ensure compliance with international trade regulations and logistics best practices.
• Drive adoption and optimization of systems such as ERP, inventory management tools, and purchasing platforms.
• Use data and analytics to support operational decision‑making and performance tracking.
• Build and mentor a high‑performing team across procurement, logistics, and warehouse operations.
• Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

• Bachelor’s degree in Operations Management, Supply Chain, Business, or related field; MBA preferred.
• 10+ years of experience in operations or supply chain leadership roles, ideally in industrial distribution.
• Proven expertise in international sourcing, purchasing, and materials management.
• Strong understanding of warehouse management, fulfillment operations, and global distribution logistics.
• Experience managing multi‑site distribution or warehouse networks.
• Proficiency in ERP systems and supply chain software tools.
• Strong leadership, negotiation, and cross‑functional communication skills.
• Global sourcing and supplier management
• Strategic operations and execution
• Multi‑site leadership and logistics coordination
• Analytical mindset with strong decision‑making ability
• Customer‑focused and quality‑driven operations
• Continuous improvement and lean operations

• Executive

• Full‑time

• Distribution

• Transportation, Logistics, Supply Chain and Storage

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