Distribution Centre Manager

We are extremely proud to be partnering with one of Australia's most dedicated and purpose-driven charitable and not-for-profit organisations for the recruitment of a Distribution Centre Manager.

This full-time role is based on site at a newly to be acquired 5,000 sqm SEQ Distribution Centre in Brisbane and reports directly to the Internal Project Lead. This role will have a direct report of a Team Leader (2IC) and approximately 30-40 indirect reports.

The successful candidate will commence ideally in January, to establish the new warehouse, support recruitment, setup, and be operationally ready ahead of the new financial year.

The Role

This is a significant leadership opportunity where your ability to lead with empathy, direction, and operational excellence will shape the success of a major distribution centre supporting approximately 50 retail stores across Southeast Queensland, plus two staging depots.

Starting ideally in January, you will have an immediate impact by establishing the new warehouse with the support of the team, supporting early recruitment, onboarding, and the setup of key operational processes to ensure the Distribution Centre is fully prepared for the new financial year.

You will oversee a large, multifaceted operation including warehouse logistics, inventory management, fleet operations, and the leadership of a 30+ person workforce comprising both paid team members and valued volunteers. Your role will ensure the smooth, safe, and efficient movement of both donated and new stock, supporting vital community services and retail operations.

More specifically, your key accountabilities include (full PD available):

Leadership & People Management

• Lead, develop, and inspire a team of 30+ staff and volunteers.
• Foster a positive, inclusive, mission-aligned workplace culture.
• Oversee workforce planning, training, and ongoing performance management.
• Support Team Leaders with daily task allocation, productivity targets, and continuous improvement.
• Conduct regular team meetings focused on KPIs and safety performance.
• Manage DC productivity while maintaining staff welfare and a safe working environment.
• Provide monthly operational data including stock holdings, team performance, and potential risks.

Logistics, Distribution & Inventory Operations

• Oversee receiving, sorting, storage, and dispatch of donated goods.
• Ensure accurate stock control for both purchased and donated goods.
• Implement process improvements to maximise warehouse throughput and efficiency.
• Maintain accurate inventory systems, including POs, transfers, stocktakes, and write-offs.
• Ensure the right stock reaches the right location at the right time.

Fleet & Route Management

• Manage scheduling, maintenance, and performance of the vehicle fleet.
• Optimise routing for fuel, cost, and time efficiency.
• Support emergency response logistics and community assistance deliveries.

Workplace Health & Safety

• Ensure strict compliance with WHS legislation and organisational policies.
• Maintain a clean, safe warehouse environment.
• Conduct training, risk assessments, and incident reporting.
• Foster a strong safety-first culture across all operations.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Communicate effectively with Retail Operations, regional managers, store managers, and senior leadership.
• Build positive relationships with suppliers, recycling partners, and logistics providers.
• Ensure operational alignment across all internal and external stakeholders.

Financial Management & Reporting

• Contribute to budgeting, forecasting, and strategic planning.
• Prepare reports on KPIs, DIFOT performance, productivity, and continuous improvement.
• Monitor income, expenditure, and resource utilisation.

The Ideal Candidate

We are seeking a highly capable and values-driven leader who brings:

• 5+ years' experience in senior logistics, warehouse, or distribution centre management.
• Proven experience leading large, diverse teams (staff + volunteers).
• Strong understanding of WHS legislation and best practice compliance.
• Proficiency in inventory/warehouse systems and operational planning.
• Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail.
• Strong stakeholder engagement and communication capabilities.
• Knowledge of fleet operations and route optimisation.
• A proactive, solutions-oriented leadership style aligned with mission-based work.
• A current Queensland Driver's Licence.
• Ability to obtain a National Police Check and Medical Check (covered by employer).

Desirable:

• Experience within the NFP or social enterprise sectors.
• Change Management experience.
• Forklift licence or logistics-related qualifications.
• Experience managing volunteer-based environments.

The Benefits:

• Up to $116k + Superannuation + Salary Sacrifice
• A significant leadership role in a highly impactful charitable organisation
• Work with dedicated staff and volunteers who genuinely care about their community
• A supportive, inclusive, and purpose-driven working environment
• Long-term job security with opportunities for professional development
• Full-time position (Monday to Friday)

If you are ready to lead with purpose and help shape operations ahead of the new financial year, commencing ideally in January, we encourage you to APPLY NOW.

At The Talent Playbook, we deeply value the time and effort you invest in your application. We promise to keep you updated with timely communication via phone or email throughout your recruitment process.