Josh Valdez
Spring
Summary
Dynamic Operations Manager with a strong focus on logistics excellence and continuous improvement. Expertise in managing complex supply chain operations, including inventory accuracy and workflow optimization. Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams and implement strategic initiatives that drive measurable results and enhance operational reliability.
Overview
17
17
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Sr. Operations Manager
LAKE
Remote - Savannah
12.2024 - 05.2026
- Led end-to-end transition to third-party logistics provider, overseeing RFP issuance and go-live execution.
- Directed daily distribution operations to ensure alignment with business strategy and SLA adherence.
- Monitored daily operations, identified improvement areas, and developed solutions that optimized workflow efficiency.
- Designed and implemented inventory control frameworks, establishing slotting strategy and enhancing inventory accuracy through KPIs.
- Oversaw facilities management for owned and leased sites, coordinated vendor activities, and standardized preventive maintenance to ensure operational reliability.
US Logistics/3PL Manager
Air Up Inc.
Remote - Munich
01.2022 - 12.2024
- Directed U.S. supply chain operations, managing international imports, 3PL warehousing, and outbound DTC/B2B distribution.
- Led cross-functional teams to improve operational efficiency and foster collaboration.
- Implemented process improvements to streamline workflows and minimize delays.
AMR Operations Manager/3PL Manager
CMS Distribution
Remote - Denver
04.2020 - 01.2022
- Directed US warehousing and distribution operations for high-volume retail partners, enhancing service delivery and efficiency.
- Led strategic initiatives for 3PL facilities in CA and TX, analyzing KPIs and driving process improvements.
- Managed stock movements from purchase order creation to final returns, ensuring seamless operations as sole contact for US division.
- Oversaw US operations recognized as 2021 CE Distributor of the Year.
- Negotiated contracts with vendors, securing optimal pricing and terms to support operational goals.
- Executed warehouse M&A expansion project, establishing a company-owned distribution point.
- Organized data to forecast performance trends and mitigate operational risks.
- Achieved 30% sales growth through key account management in 2021.
Founder
Tight Lines Inc.
Colorado Front Range
02.2019 - 08.2020
- Founded full-service residential and commercial painting business.
- Led sales team in developing daily strategies to meet financial goals.
- Directed financial activities, achieving daily sales targets through effective budgeting and forecasting.
- Generated leads by building strategic relationships and executing targeted cold calling campaigns.
- Oversaw project management for customer painting projects, ensuring timely completion.
- Implemented internal CRM system to track relationships and sales metrics.
- Hired and supervised full-time employees and subcontractors to enhance operational efficiency.
- Managed customer service and resolved conflicts, maintaining high levels of customer satisfaction and loyalty.
Director of Facilities and Operations
Birko Corporation
Henderson
01.2016 - 02.2019
- Internally promoted to Operations & Plant Manager from Logistics and Transportation Manager.
- Direct responsibility for service and supply chain operations, including manufacturing production, safe storage, distribution, plant maintenance, and service team leadership of 40 FT employees.
- Developed and managed $35M departmental budget, ensuring accountability for full P/L responsibility.
- Managed production operations, including staff scheduling, safety program initiative and compliance, demand planning, and regulatory compliance.
- Created and championed the company's strategic initiative for the Operations Department.
- Project management for capital expansion upgrades to the plant.
- Selected and managed 3PL providers to align with company growth and availability plans; expanded company-owned fleet to support increased sales and enhance customer service.
Transportation and Logistics Manager
Birko Corporation
Henderson
07.2014 - 01.2016
- Oversaw domestic hazmat supply chain and distribution operations, ensuring compliance and safety standards.
- Managed all fleet operations company-owned (tractor/trailer), including hiring drivers, capacity planning, scheduling, HOS compliance, and customer service follow-through.
- Full P&L management of $15M departmental budget.
- Coordinated supplemental LTL, FTL, and small parcel shipping services to align with demand fluctuations.
- Strategically selected and managed 3PL partners on a daily basis.
- Executed freight RFQ process and negotiated vendor contracts to optimize service delivery.
- Implemented vendor scorecard and QBR initiative to drive continuous improvement.
- Departmental KPI setting/tracking.
- Supervised 15 employees in daily operations.
Director of Warehouse and Distribution
Sea to Summit
Boulder
01.2009 - 07.2014
- Managed all inbound, fulfillment, and inventory for the global distributor of the year for 5 years.
- Oversaw daily operations of 20 full-time and seasonal warehouse employees to ensure efficiency.
- Established and tracked daily, weekly, and monthly KPIs to monitor progress and drive continuous improvement.
- Implemented a new WMS solution from RFQ to implementation to address company needs.
- Managed asset purchasing and inventory to support growing business needs.
- Small parcel, LTL freight management including contract negotiations.
Education
BS - Political Sciences
University of Colorado at Boulder
Skills
- Ecommerce management
- 3PL management
- Warehouse optimization
- SOP implementation
- Project management
- Strategic planning
- Continuous improvement
- Analytical skills
- Dynamic problem solving
- Team leadership
- Team management
- Staff training and development
Certification
- ISO 9001 quality management principles
- HAZMAT-related certifications including 49 CFR, RCRA, and HAZWOPER
- APICS CPIM certification
Hobbies and Interests
Fly fishing guide in Colorado's Front Range
Timeline
Sr. Operations Manager
LAKE
12.2024 - 05.2026
US Logistics/3PL Manager
Air Up Inc.
01.2022 - 12.2024
AMR Operations Manager/3PL Manager
CMS Distribution
04.2020 - 01.2022
Founder
Tight Lines Inc.
02.2019 - 08.2020
Director of Facilities and Operations
Birko Corporation
01.2016 - 02.2019
Transportation and Logistics Manager
Birko Corporation
07.2014 - 01.2016
Director of Warehouse and Distribution
Sea to Summit
01.2009 - 07.2014
BS - Political Sciences
University of Colorado at Boulder