Michael Pyell
Keller
Summary
Senior operations leader with 20+ years of experience leading high-volume distribution, fulfillment, and retail operations. Proven ability to scale site operations, optimize throughput, and deliver strong performance across safety, quality, productivity, and service KPIs. Experienced in building leadership teams, driving continuous improvement, and aligning cross-functional partners to execute growth strategies in fast-paced environments.
Overview
21
21
years of professional experience
Work History
Assistant General Manager – Distribution Center
Michaels Stores, Inc.
01.2024 - 01.2026
- Directed end-to-end distribution center operations across inbound, inventory control, and outbound fulfillment
- Improved throughput and operational efficiency through process discipline, workflow standardization, and labor optimization
- Led multi-department teams, fostering accountability for safety, quality, and productivity KPIs
- Supported capacity planning and staffing strategies to meet fluctuating demand and service targets
- Partnered with IT, HR, and senior leadership to implement process and system enhancements
- Built leadership capability and strengthened bench through coaching, development, and performance management
Regional Loss Prevention Manager – Distribution Centers
Michaels Stores, Inc.
01.2020 - 01.2024
- Led operational risk, shrink reduction, and compliance strategy across multiple distribution centers, ensuring alignment with organizational standards
- Conducted audits and implemented process improvements to enhance inventory accuracy and strengthen operational integrity across distribution centers
- Partnered with DC leadership to implement scalable process controls without impacting throughput or service
- Developed training programs that fostered accountability, increased safety awareness, and reinforced execution discipline among team members
District Manager (Retail Stores)
Michaels Stores, Inc.
01.2015 - 01.2020
- Managed multi-site retail operations with full P&L accountability, driving profitability and operational efficiency
- Drove operational execution, staffing, and customer experience improvements across district
- Translated company strategy into execution plans across multiple locations, enhancing performance and consistency across teams
- Developed leadership pipelines, strengthening bench strength and increasing internal promotions
Store Manager
Michaels Stores, Inc.
01.2005 - 01.2015
- Led high-volume retail operations with consistent delivery of sales and operational metrics
- Developed high-performing teams with strong retention and engagement
- Ensured execution of operational standards, inventory control, and customer service
Education
Piedmont Community College
Charlottesville, VASkills
- End-to-end site operations
- Throughput and capacity optimization
- Workflow and process improvement
- KPI management
- Labor planning and workforce scaling
- Continuous improvement initiatives
- Inventory accuracy and flow
- Cross-functional leadership
- Team collaboration and building
- P&L accountability
- Leadership development
- Strategic planning
Key Alignment To Collectors Role
- End-to-End Operations Ownership: Direct experience managing full DC flow from inbound to outbound aligns with their need to own operations 'pre-arrival through shipping' (Indeed)
- Scaling Operations: Experience in labor planning, workflow design, and process improvement supports their goal of scaling volume significantly (Indeed)
- KPI Leadership: Strong track record managing safety, productivity, and service metrics matches their core performance expectations (Indeed)
- Multi-Department Leadership: Led large teams through managers across multiple functions—direct match to their org structure
- Continuous Improvement Mindset: Proven ability to implement standardized processes and improve throughput aligns with CPI focus
Timeline
Assistant General Manager – Distribution Center
Michaels Stores, Inc.
01.2024 - 01.2026
Regional Loss Prevention Manager – Distribution Centers
Michaels Stores, Inc.
01.2020 - 01.2024
District Manager (Retail Stores)
Michaels Stores, Inc.
01.2015 - 01.2020
Store Manager
Michaels Stores, Inc.
01.2005 - 01.2015
Piedmont Community College