Senior Distribution Operations Manager - Cold Chain Logistics & California Berry Distribution Network Leadership

About arenaflex

Welcome to arenaflex, a global leader in the fresh produce industry with a legacy spanning over a century. We are passionate about growing and delivering the most delicious, premium berries to consumers worldwide. At arenaflex, we believe in the power of fresh, nutritious food to bring joy to families and communities across the globe. Our commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability has made us the trusted name in berries, and we continue to expand our operations to meet the growing demand for our exceptional products.

As we continue to grow, we are seeking a talented and experienced Senior Distribution Operations Manager to lead our California cooling and distribution network. This is a exceptional opportunity to join a dynamic team and make a significant impact on our operations while advancing your career in a thriving industry.

Position Overview

arenaflex is currently seeking a highly motivated and experienced professional to fill the role of Senior Distribution Operations Manager. In this critical position, you will be responsible for overseeing the receipt, cooling, and delivery of fresh berries across more than eighteen operational locations throughout California. You will lead a substantial team including both full-time and seasonal staff, creating operational workflows, developing and implementing best practices, and driving the adoption of cutting-edge equipment and technology solutions.

This senior leadership position requires someone who can balance strategic vision with hands-on operational excellence. You will manage distribution center relationships with third-party logistics providers (3PLs) and manufacturer-owned sites, ensuring the safe and efficient progression of our products from the field to the customer's table. Your leadership will be instrumental in exceeding grower and customer expectations while driving significant improvements in operational efficiency.

Key Responsibilities

As the Senior Distribution Operations Manager at arenaflex, you will be entrusted with a comprehensive set of responsibilities that are vital to our operational success:

• Network Leadership: Oversee all California cooling and distribution site operations to ensure a highly coordinated network that delivers exceptional results consistently.


• Strategic Planning: Develop and advocate comprehensive business cases to maintain, grow, and modernize the California distribution network for future cooling, storage, transportation, and processing needs.


• 3PL Management: Direct and manage third-party logistics providers, applying strategic negotiation techniques to maximize leverage control, navigate complex situations, and achieve optimal business outcomes.


• Team Leadership: Lead distribution center managers to ensure their teams understand expectations for achieving goals. Standardize and share best practices within Distribution Centers and across the California network.


• Labor Relations: Demonstrate working experience with labor unions and collective bargaining to maintain positive workforce relationships.


• Performance Analysis: Track, analyze, communicate, and improve key performance metrics that drive operational excellence.


• Business Reviews: Conduct daily, monthly, and quarterly business reviews with Distribution Center Managers, 3PLs, and growers to ensure alignment and continuous improvement.


• Issue Resolution: Promptly identify and address complex supply chain issues; effectively collect and evaluate data; provide alternative solutions that protect our operational integrity.


• Stakeholder Communication: Present weekly office reports at grower meetings to maintain strong relationships and transparency.


• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Lead cross-functional training with partners from production, supply chain, transportation, sales, and finance to optimize company objectives.


• Budget Management: Develop and manage the annual operating and capital cost budgets for your assigned areas of responsibility.


• Performance Management: Drive execution and management of work management and pay-for-performance programs across the seasonal workforce population.


• Continuous Improvement: Foster a culture of continuous improvement, client/service focus, and cost optimization throughout your areas of responsibility.


• Facility Maintenance: Work with distribution center directors to ensure effective and unplanned maintenance of all facilities.


• Compliance Management: Manage departmental activities for compliance with health regulations, company standards, and regulatory requirements.


• Organizational Values: Sustain, support, and promote the company Mission, Vision, and Values in all aspects of operations.


• Ethical Conduct: Follow company policies and practices while representing arenaflex in an ethical and professional manner in all interactions with employees, government agencies, growers, customers, and other stakeholders.


• Information Security: Ensure the confidentiality of all company proprietary information.

Technology and Innovation Initiatives

As part of your role, you will support the implementation of technology-related changes across the California organization, including:

• Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) deployment and optimization


• Automation and robotics integration


• Advanced cooling technologies


• Process management and practical technology implementation


• Continuous Process Improvement (CPI) methodology


• Functional Work Group Planning (FWGP) execution

Travel Requirements

Travel within the state of California will be required for this position, estimated at up to 30% of your time. This travel is essential for site visits, stakeholder meetings, and ensuring operational excellence across all locations.

Essential Qualifications

To be considered for this role, candidates must meet the following requirements:

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Industrial Engineering, Business Management, or equivalent experience


• Experience: Minimum of 10+ years of progressive experience in Warehousing, Distribution, Logistics, and Inventory Systems


• 3PL Expertise: Familiarity with third-party logistics management and vendor relationships


• Management Experience: Extensive work management experience with demonstrated ability to lead and develop teams


• Team Leadership: Experience in managing a team of business professionals


• Language Skills: Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred


• Communication: Excellent public speaking and presentation abilities


• Change Management: Demonstrated ability to drive change and continuous improvement initiatives


• Interpersonal Skills: Strong relational skills with the ability to communicate effectively at all organizational levels


• Technical Acumen: Experience with process management and practical implementation of required technology


• Analytical Skills: Analytical ability to develop and monitor measurable goals and key performance indicators


• Transportation: Valid California driver's license and eligibility for use of a company vehicle

Preferred Capabilities and Leadership Skills

We are looking for candidates who demonstrate the following competencies:

• Valid California driver's license with eligibility for coverage under the company-sponsored vehicle insurance program


• A valid passport with the ability to travel internationally without restrictions


• Strategic Mindset: Looks toward the future and develops plans to achieve long-term goals


• Innovation Driver: Finds, advocates, and implements innovations - both large and small


• Planning and Adaptation: Establishes priorities and desired outcomes, creating actionable plans to achieve them


• Results-Oriented: Pursues objectives with passion, creativity, and the drive to achieve desired outcomes


• Collaborative Approach: Works effectively with diverse stakeholders, both internally and externally, seeking mutually beneficial solutions


• Employee Engagement: Creates an inspiring work environment and empowers others to succeed


• Development Focus: Actively seeks opportunities to develop self and others


• Resilience: Handles difficult issues promptly with optimism and transparency

Career Growth and Development Opportunities

At arenaflex, we are committed to the professional development of our team members. This position offers exceptional opportunities for career advancement within our global organization. As a senior leader, you will:

• Gain exposure to cutting-edge cold chain and logistics technologies


• Develop expertise in supply chain optimization and operational excellence


• Build relationships with industry-leading growers and distribution partners


• Enhance your leadership capabilities through managing large, diverse teams


• Contribute to strategic initiatives that shape the future of our operations


• Access ongoing training and development programs

Work Environment and Culture

arenaflex fosters a culture of care, collaboration, and excellence. We value humility, passion, and reliability as guiding principles in everything we do. Our teams are dedicated to delighting consumers worldwide with the highest quality berries, grown through traditional breeding methods - meaning no GMOs. From farm to table, we focus on delivering a premium berry experience through our extensive network of supply chain partners.

You will join a team of dedicated professionals who share your commitment to operational excellence and continuous improvement. Our inclusive environment encourages innovation, open communication, and personal growth. We believe that when our team members succeed, our company succeeds.

Compensation and Benefits

arenaflex is committed to providing competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package. The salary range for this position is $35-40 per year, with the final offer dependent on experience, skills, education, work location, and other relevant factors.

arenaflex is dedicated to a culture of care and offers an attractive benefits package that includes:

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage


• Life insurance and disability coverage for positions working over 30 hours per week


• 401(k) with employer match


• Benefit sharing participation


• Paid sick time


• Paid vacation


• Paid personal and family care leave


• Free Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

More detailed information regarding the benefits package will be shared during the application process.

Join Our Team

If you are a results-driven professional with extensive experience in distribution operations, cold chain management, and team leadership, we invite you to consider this exciting opportunity at arenaflex. This is your chance to make a meaningful impact on our operations while advancing your career in a dynamic and growing industry.

At arenaflex, we are passionate about what we do, and we are looking for individuals who share our commitment to excellence, innovation, and customer satisfaction. If you are ready to take the next step in your career and contribute to our mission of delivering exceptionally delicious berries to consumers around the world, we encourage you to apply today.

We look forward to receiving your application and learning how your skills and experience can contribute to the continued success of arenaflex. Join us in our journey to bring the best berries in the world to tables everywhere!