Automated Distribution Centre Manager

ArkNexus is launching a greenfield, fully automated distribution centre powered by a shuttle-based ASRS with high pallet density and tightly controlled system logic. This is not a traditional, labour-heavy DC leadership role. Success requires strong systems thinking, technical credibility and real-time decision making within a highly constrained automated environment. You will join during commissioning, shaping operational readiness before taking full ownership of a 24×7 automated site. About the role: Joining pre–go-live, the DC Manager will support commissioning, testing, and the development of operational processes before taking full ownership of a high-reliability, 24/7 operation. This role is suited to leaders who can build structure and discipline from first principles within a complex, technology-led environment. Working closely with OEMs and technical partners, you will ensure system performance across mechanical, process and control layers. You will also lead a small, high-performing team while holding full accountability for safety, service, cost and overall site performance (P&L). Key responsibilities - Support commissioning, start-up and transition into steady-state operations, including user acceptance testing, defect identification and operational readiness activities. - Hold full accountability for site performance across safety, service, throughput, uptime, cost and financial outcomes, including budgets, forecasts and EBIT. - Own end-to-end flow across inbound, storage, shuffling and outbound operations within the constraints of the automated system. - Build capability and accountability across a small 24×7 operations team, with particular focus on flow control, escalation and SOP adherence. - Maintain a strong on-floor presence, identifying exceptions, congestion, bottlenecks and emerging risks before they escalate. - Act as the primary customer-facing operational leader for service delivery, escalations and expectation management. - Act as the primary operational interface with OEMs, automation vendors, WMS/WCS teams, IT support and maintenance partners. - Drive continuous improvement through disciplined operation, reduction of exceptions, root cause analysis and system optimisation. About you: Must-have: - Experience in an automated DC, ASRS or advanced manufacturing environment - Strong understanding of WMS/WCS-driven operations - Proven ability to manage end-to-end flow and real-time decision making - Technical understanding of automation systems and ability to troubleshoot across mechanical, system and process issues - Experience in high-risk or automated safety environments - Capability to lead a small team in a 24×7 operation - Demonstrated ownership of site performance and financial outcomes (P&L) - Strong problem-solving capability (Lean, CI, root cause analysis)Highly desirable: - Experience in greenfield start-up, commissioning or major transformation - Background in ASRS, flow control or automation-heavy operations - Proven ability to stabilise and optimise operations post go-live - Relevant tertiary qualification in Supply Chain, Engineering, Logistics, Manufacturing or a related field (desirable). - Formal training in Lean, Six Sigma or CI methodologies (desirable). - Current forklift licence and/or high‑risk work exposure (advantageous).