Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
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MAKAILA HICKS

Allentown,PA

Summary

Forward-thinking, multidimensional Operational Leader, utilizing hands-on Project Management experience and research background to enhance production efficiency. Implements technology, systems, performance metrics, equipment, and facilities to improve performance and drive quality improvement initiatives. Owns a unique balance of technology insight and sharp business acumen. Effectively liaises with all segments, including cross-functional partners and stakeholders. Results-oriented strategic thinker and decisive decision-maker with top-tier oral, written, presentation, and problem-solving skills.

Experienced with overseeing multiple business locations to ensure seamless operations and high standards. Utilizes strategic planning and resource management to optimize performance. Track record of improving team productivity and customer satisfaction through effective leadership and problem-solving abilities.

Overview

15
15
years of professional experience

Work History

Operations Manager

Nike
Bethlehem, PA
05.2022 - Current
  • Oversaw daily operations for over 200 GXO leaders and 100 Employgig, driving efficiency, workflow improvements, and safety compliance.
  • Served as workstream lead for ConnECt capital projects, ensuring alignment on goals and timelines.
  • Implemented inventory management systems and led initiatives like shipping sorter installation and Packsize machines, increasing CPH and reducing costs by $0.94 per carton.
  • Established facility small teams and conducted daily performance evaluations, raising UPH to 97 and supporting ongoing training for Athletes.
  • Collaborated with vendors and supply chain partners (GXO, EmployGig, CBRE, Infosys, WHQ) to optimize inventory and delivery.
  • Utilized analytics to monitor metrics, identify bottlenecks, standardize processes across RSCs, and achieve a network-best wave closure time of 97%.

AREA MANAGER – COACH

NIKE
11.2020 - 05.2022
  • Direct, mentor, and influence the production and output of 20 – 60 employees, to achieve production of 80% or better.
  • Effectively manage departmental budget, reduced 200K in Q2 of 2020.
  • Employ conflict resolution strategies, partnering with HR to counsel employees and remedy issues and problems.
  • Contributed to the Slotting and Picking Optimization Kaizen. Focused on the Flow Workshop
  • Initiated impactful cost reductions within cross-functional teams, prompting process improvements and equipment changes.
  • Mapped processes to identify root cause of outstanding tasks and open waves via lean strategies, partnering with other AMs across various shifts to find the underlying cause.

OPERATIONS SPECIALIST, FLOW ANALYST POINT GUARD

NIKE
Memphis, TN
01.2015 - 01.2019
  • Managed operations in a 3-million-square-foot state-of-the-art facility.
  • Directed daily workflow for teams ranging from 7 to over 100 hourly employees.
  • Developed and implemented strategic plans to optimize processing, staffing, and routing.
  • Led comprehensive team training on distribution center systems and processes.
  • Drove cost reductions and process improvements across cross-functional teams.
  • Mentored peers to uphold quality standards, foster Nike's culture, and ensure a positive, efficient, and safe work environment

MATERIAL HANDLER – ATHLETE

NIKE
Memphis, TN
08.2011 - 08.2013
  • Delivered contagious excellence within this 3 million Square Foot Facility.
  • Worked with Nike Supply Chain experts to guarantee the accurate, on-time delivery of 900 million footwear, apparel, and equipment units.
  • Performed general warehouse duties within Selection, Replenishment, Sorters, Vas, Panda, Hospital, Shipping, and Routing Order.
  • Processed orders for shipment, which involved selection, packing, checking, and restocking.
  • Administered computer data inquiries and VAS processing of customers' orders.

ASSISTANT MERCHANDISING MANAGER

MACY'S
Memphis, TN
08.2010 - 08.2013
  • Drove sales, productivity, and profitability by ensuring best practices and strong merchandising/sales partnerships, while leading training and development of support teams.
  • Managed all aspects of inbound/outbound merchandising logistics, including dock security, merchandise processing, supply deliveries, and recycling operations.
  • Processed 56% of Softline and 54% of Hardline inventory on peak days; oversaw physical inventory and shortage prevention efforts.
  • Coached and developed a team of 15 support members, fostering exemplary customer service and high team morale.
  • Improved forecast accuracy and staffing by leveraging data analysis, ensuring proper inventory levels and driving supply chain initiatives.

Education

Bachelor of Science - Business Management

University of Memphis
Memphis, TN
12.2025

Bachelor of Arts - Communication

University of Arkansas At Pine Bluff
Pine Bluff, AR
01.2003

Skills

  • Operations Management & Analysis
  • Departmental Budgetary Oversight
  • Data Analysis
  • Team Leadership
  • Strategic Planning
  • Project Management
  • Change Management
  • Process Redesign & Improvement
  • Performance Management
  • Relationship building and management
  • Team development
  • Goals and performance
  • Process improvement
  • Controlling costs
  • Customer relationship management
  • Order management

Timeline

Operations Manager

Nike
05.2022 - Current

AREA MANAGER – COACH

NIKE
11.2020 - 05.2022

OPERATIONS SPECIALIST, FLOW ANALYST POINT GUARD

NIKE
01.2015 - 01.2019

MATERIAL HANDLER – ATHLETE

NIKE
08.2011 - 08.2013

ASSISTANT MERCHANDISING MANAGER

MACY'S
08.2010 - 08.2013

Bachelor of Science - Business Management

University of Memphis

Bachelor of Arts - Communication

University of Arkansas At Pine Bluff