Returns Manager

DIVE IN TO A NEW CAREER WITH LESLIE'S: 

Leslie’s pool supplies is the “World’s Largest Retailer of Swimming Pool Supplies.” With over 1,000 retail stores in 39 states plus Pro, Service, E-Commerce, Production, and Distribution divisions, there are many career opportunities at Leslie’s. With over 60 years of providing the best-in-class products and solutions to our customers, there is nothing that we value more than the development and growth of our team. We strive to create a positive and fun atmosphere where our team members feel valued and are enthusiastic about the contributions they make to the success of Leslie’s. 

Job Overview: 

Under the direction of the Distribution Center Manager at our Illinois Distribution Center (IDC), the Returns Manager is responsible for the efficient day-to-day operations of the Returns Department, which includes oversight of the Returns Processing, Salvage and Consignment Processes, RTV and Warranty Processes, and other smaller programs in returns. There is particular emphasis on the management of the department personnel and the execution of daily workload. The Returns Manager is responsible for directing the daily activities of the department, staff supervision, and proper utilization of space, equipment, reporting and adherence to SOPs. Additional functionality includes the implementation and compliance of safety/security/housekeeping/ and sanitation programs including PPE and Covid protocols.

This individual will work with cross functional and supply chain teams across home office as well, including: 

• Omni-Channel Director, DC Operations, DC Leadership within the Regional Distribution Teams, Inventory Planning, Ecommerce, Finance & Other Cross Functional Partners

Responsibilities:  

• Operations - Provide direct daily supervision of warehouse personnel to ensure the safe, clean, and efficient operation of the returns department.
  • Assist in developing a program to train and motivate personnel for increased effectiveness.
• Labor Management - Direct the operations of returns personnel to achieve prescribed objectives.
  • Apply sound communication and motivational techniques in supervising, counseling, and developing associates.
• Communications - Attend warehouse meetings. Interact with DC Director and Home Office Logistics and Reverse Logistics Core Team Members to establish goals and KPIs.
  • Ensure proper reporting and visibility is provided to key partners on key KPIs.
  • Communicate with transportation, corporate office, customers, and department managers to ensure efficient return flow.
• SOPs - Continued development of procedures to ensure the efficient operations of our Returns area and optimize our standard operating policies and procedures. Serves as the subject matter expert for the returns processes for all DCs and the 3PL locations, lending assistance and expertise to other DC leaders.
• Cleanliness and Product Quality - Monitor the cleanliness and working condition of all equipment. Coordinate with the DC Director to ensure that a sound maintenance program is being implemented. Adjust the quantity and type of equipment to meet business needs and minimize costs.
• Safety - Implement, and direct programs to ensure the safety of all personnel, equipment, and property. Assure compliance with OSHA and MSDS regulations.
• Housekeeping/Security - Evaluate housekeeping, sanitation, and security levels daily. Review returns operations daily to ensure the warehouse is neat, secure, and well organized and that damage to product, equipment, and the facility is prevented.
• Storage - Ensure product is stored in a neat, organized fashion throughout the returns area, and organized to meet warranty, salvage, RTV and other flow needs from our vendors and partners.
• Reporting - Review returns operating goals and standards daily and monitor achievement.
• Additional tasks as required; job description may expand to add additional responsibilities.

Essential Competencies:  

• College degree, or equivalent experience.
• Experience in warehousing management and broad knowledge of warehouse operations.
• A broad range of management skills is required with particular emphasis on leadership, supervision, motivation, communication, and planning.
• Leadership experience required, including interviewing, development and disciplinary procedures.
• Warehouse Management Systems & RF Scanner experience is required.
• Ability to communicate with all levels of the organization including employees, management, and corporate teams.
• During Pool Season the manager may be required to cover second shift hours for several weeks during the summer, when returns volume increases temporarily for some weeks.

Qualifications:  

• Bilingual in Spanish preferred.
• Two to five years of experience in logistics is preferred.
• Must be a Team Player and be highly organized.
• Manhattan Active Omni, JDA system experience is preferred.
• Proficient in Excel, Outlook, and Payroll Software programs.
• Forklift Experience: Sit Down, Reach Truck & Order Picker is preferred.
• Hazardous Material shipping and storage knowledge helpful.
• Be adaptable to change and continuous improvement.
• Able to conduct meetings on a daily, weekly, and monthly basis.
• Able to work around and with chemicals.