Director - DC Operations

American Eagle Outfitters · Salisbury

POSITION TITLE: Director – DC Operations

DIRECT REPORTS: Manages a team of Operations Managers and up to 175 total associates across 4 shifts

Get to Know the Role:

Lead the operational, financial and cultural launch of a $40M, state-of-the-art automated Omni-Channel Distribution Center. As a greenfield startup, you will directly participate in building setup, systems installation, local leadership hiring and strategic site decisions. Once live, this facility will join AEO’s North American network—which processes 65,000 orders daily and serves 1,000+ stores across 81 countries—holding full P&L and operational accountability for all fulfillment, reverse logistics and support functions.

This role demands a visible, culture-first leader who thrives in a startup environment, driving success through frontline engagement, strong team delegation and maximum utilization of advanced automation to hit SLA and cost targets.

What You’ll Do:

Startup Strategy & Site Launch

Direct the site startup phase, overseeing facility setup, installation and integration of automated systems and local operational strategy
Recruit, hire and onboard a cohesive leadership team and foundational support staff to drive site readiness
Make critical, localized decisions on site policies, workflows and vendor partnerships to ensure a seamless launch

People Leadership & Engagement

Serve as the visible site leader, prioritizing daily frontline engagement from day one to establish retention, morale and performance
Mentor your leadership team, delegating authority to empower managers to make decisions and solve operational challenges independently
Communicate clear site strategy, set shift priorities and cultivate an "Employer of Choice" culture across all shifts

Operational Excellence & Automation

Lead operations across a highly automated facility, maximizing material handling technology to hit speed and efficiency goals post-launch
Support peak staffing, workflow execution and support function alignment (HR, LP, IT, Maintenance) to consistently meet or exceed SLAs and Cost Per Unit (CPU) targets
Maintain a safe, secure and respectful working environment across the site

Fiscal Responsibility & Strategy

Manage the site P&L and operational budget to achieve cost targets and maximize ROI on the $40M facility investment
Develop long-term labor models, site expansion plans and continuous improvement strategies alongside vendor and engineering partners

What You Bring:

Leadership Style: People-first, visible and adaptable. Proven ability to thrive in a fast-paced startup environment, build teams and hold leaders accountable
Experience: 10–15 years of progressive leadership in large-scale retail, DTC or Omni-Channel distribution centers, including startup or greenfield facility launch experience
Technical Mastery: Hands-on experience overseeing site automation installations and directing operations within modern, highly automated facilities; deep expertise in SLA delivery and production flow
Financial & Strategic Acumen: Proven track record managing $50M+ operating budgets and major capital investments
Education & Travel: Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, Engineering, or equivalent experience; Willingness to travel as needed

Perks: Why You’ll Love it Here

Generous Associate Discount: Treat yourself to the best our brands offer!
Casual Dress Code: Come as you are (and stay comfy)
Company Events: Exciting company-wide events you won’t want to miss!

Pay/Benefits Information:

Actual starting pay is determined by various factors, including but not limited to relevant experience and location
Subject to eligibility requirements, associates may receive health care benefits (including medical, vision, and dental); wellness benefits; 401(k) retirement benefits; life and disability insurance; employee stock purchase program; paid time off; paid sick leave; and parental leave and benefits
Paid Time Off, paid sick leave, and holiday pay vary by job level and type, job location, employment classification (part-time or full-time / exempt or non-exempt), and years of service. For additional information, please click here
AEO may also provide discretionary bonuses and other incentives at its discretion

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Get to Know AEO

American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. (NYSE: AEO) is a leading global specialty retailer with a portfolio of beloved apparel brands including American Eagle, Aerie, OFFL/NE by Aerie, Todd Snyder and Unsubscribed.

Rooted in optimism, inclusivity and authenticity, AEO’s brands empower every customer to celebrate their unique personal style by offering casual, comfortable, timeless outfitting and high-quality products that are made to last. In addition to a robust e-commerce business, we operate stores in the United States, Canada and Mexico, with merchandise available in more than 30 countries through a global network of license partners.

At AEO, we believe in the power of our people and our brands. Our Better Together culture creates a mutual desire to succeed–inspiring our community to excel, while driving future growth for the business and associates. Through experience, exposure and education we empower associates to build their unique career journey.

Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Access at AEO

We remain committed to building an inclusive culture that is welcoming and fosters a sense of belonging for everyone. Please see more about our initiatives here.

AEO is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to complying with all federal, state and local equal employment opportunity ("EEO") laws. AEO prohibits discrimination against associates and applicants for employment because of the individual's race or color, religion or creed, alienage or citizenship status, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, age, sexual orientation, disability, gender identity or expression, marital or partnership status, domestic violence or stalking victim status, genetic information or predisposing genetic characteristics, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. This applies to all AEO activities, including, but not limited to, recruitment, hiring, compensation, assignment, training, promotion, performance evaluation, discipline and discharge. AEO also provides reasonable accommodation of religion and disability in accordance with applicable law.

Applications will be accepted until the Apply Before date (if applicable), but may be extended based on applicant volume.

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