Sr Manager Network Impvmt & Automation

Job title: Sr Manager Network Impvmt & Automation

About the Role This role leads the strategy, implementation, and optimization of automation technologies across Mattel's North American distribution center operations. It is responsible for identifying, evaluating, and deploying automation solutions that improve safety, productivity, quality, capacity, and service levels while supporting long-term supply chain growth.

What You'll Do

• Develop and maintain a 2 to 5-year distribution center automation roadmap aligned with business objectives and DC Directors' operational needs; prepare business cases, ROI analyses, and capital investment proposals.
• Identify opportunities to improve operational performance through automation and digital technologies; evaluate emerging solutions including robotics, autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS), goods-to-person technologies, and AI-enabled warehouse solutions.
• Lead automation projects from concept through design, implementation, commissioning, and stabilization; manage budgets, timelines, resources, risks, and vendor relationships; coordinate cross-functional teams; establish collaborative project control and executive reporting processes.
• Partner with IT and Engineering to integrate automation with Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Warehouse Execution Systems (WES), Warehouse Control Systems (WCS), ERP, and transportation systems; monitor system performance and drive corrective actions; develop and track KPIs related to throughput, uptime, labor productivity, quality, and service levels.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives using Lean, Six Sigma, and data-driven methodologies; improve operational efficiency, inventory accuracy, order fulfillment performance, and workplace safety; support network capacity planning and future distribution center design initiatives; standardize automation processes across all Mattel NA DC facilities.
• Manage relationships with automation vendors, system integrators, consultants, and equipment suppliers; support RFP processes and vendor evaluations; collaborate with Procurement on contract negotiations and performance reviews; communicate project status, risks, and results to senior leadership and executive stakeholders.
• Build, develop, and lead a high-performing NI automation engineering team; coach team members and foster a culture of innovation, accountability, and continuous learning; support organizational change management efforts related to new technologies and operating models.

What We're Looking For

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Supply Chain, Operations Management, Industrial Engineering, or related field.
• 8–12+ years of experience in supply chain, warehouse operations, automation, engineering, or logistics.
• 5+ years of leadership experience managing complex automation projects and cross-functional teams.
• Preferred: Master’s degree or MBA; PMP certification; Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt.
• Experience with multi-site distribution networks and large-scale capital projects.
• Experience implementing warehouse automation technologies such as ASRS, sortation systems, robotics, conveyors, AMRs, and automated packaging solutions.
• Strong understanding of WMS, WCS, and WES platforms; proven project and vendor management experience.

Nice to Have

• Master’s degree or MBA
• PMP certification
• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary range: USD 136,000 to 170,000 per year. Mattel offers competitive total pay programs, comprehensive benefits, and resources to help empower a culture where every employee can reach their full potential.