District Operations Manager- Wood Dale, IL

Job Summary

The District Operations Manager supports district leadership in driving operational excellence across Canteen's Refreshment Services business. This role serves as a key operational partner responsible for administrative operations, systems management, reporting, process improvement, and business support functions. The District Operations Manager collaborates with District Managers and cross-functional teams to improve operational efficiency, ensure data accuracy, support strategic initiatives, and drive execution of district objectives.

Key Responsibilities:

Operations Leadership

• Support and execute district operational strategies to drive service excellence, customer retention, and profitable growth.
• Act as the primary operational resource for route drivers and field teams, resolving day-to-day issues and removing barriers to execution.
• Ensure successful route completion through proactive monitoring, issue resolution, and operational follow-up.
• Partner with District Managers to maintain service levels, productivity standards, and operational compliance.

Performance & Analytics

• Review daily, weekly, and monthly operational reports to monitor route performance, service completion, and productivity metrics.
• Analyze operational data and trends to identify opportunities for process improvement and cost reduction.
• Collaborate with district leadership and business partners to develop action plans that improve performance and customer satisfaction.
• Support district forecasting, inventory management, and labor optimization initiatives.

Team Development & Engagement

• Provide coaching, training, and direction to route drivers and field associates.
• Reinforce company standards related to safety, customer service, product quality, and operational execution.
• Support recruiting, onboarding, and development efforts to build a high-performing team.
• Foster a culture of accountability, engagement, and continuous improvement.

Customer & Service Excellence

• Ensure consistent delivery of exceptional customer service across all accounts.
• Address customer concerns and operational escalations promptly and professionally.
• Partner with sales and operations teams to support customer retention and growth initiatives.

Operational Support

• Collaborate with Route Supervisors to ensure adequate coverage and resource allocation across the district.
• Support special projects, operational initiatives, and business improvement efforts.
• Assist with route coverage when necessary to ensure uninterrupted service to customers.
• Maintain compliance with all company policies, safety standards, and regulatory requirements.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Business, Operations, Supply Chain, or related field preferred.
• Three or more years of experience in operations, logistics, route-based distribution, retail, foodservice, or refreshment services.
• Previous leadership or supervisory experience strongly preferred.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret operational and financial data.
• Experience using performance metrics to drive business results.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and relationship-building skills.
• Demonstrated problem-solving and decision-making abilities in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, Outlook, Word, and PowerPoint.
• Ability to lead teams, manage multiple priorities, and adapt to changing business needs.