Manager, Distribution and Delivery Operations - BookOps

Overview BookOps is the shared library services collaboration of New York Public Library (NYPL) and Brooklyn Public Library (BPL). BookOps coordinates the selection, acquisition, cataloging, processing, sorting and distribution of library materials for its member libraries. The Manager of Distribution and Delivery Operations maintains a safe, efficient, and reliable delivery system for NYPL, BPL, and Columbia University locations. Key responsibilities include ensuring the timely movement of books and materials, developing strategies to optimize operational efficiencies, and maintaining adequate staffing levels. This role also involves designing, implementing, and adjusting daily route and truck assignments while organizing warehouse space and planning layouts to maximize storage capacity. This role will include direct supervision of distribution operations for the pickup and delivery of materials from ReCAP to NYPL and Columbia University Research Centers. Some expectations for this role are that within: 1 month , this person will: Periodically accompany MVOs to assess the effectiveness of current routes Engage with direct reports to comprehend their strengths and weaknesses 3 months , this person will: Implement route alterations in order to create new efficiencies Contribute to overall team morale Attend network meetings to become familiar with our colleagues at the branches 6 months and beyond , this person will: Will incorporate special projects and assignments such as delivery to ReCAP and the movement of branch collections Conduct branch visits to better understand their needs and gather information that can help us improve the service we provide Responsibilities Oversee nightly logistics, truck routing, and distribution efficiency, including the specialized ReCAP delivery service for NYPL and Columbia University Train, mentor, supervise, and evaluate Motor Vehicle Operators—managing schedules, attendance, and professional growth to ensure high team performance Ensure evening staff have necessary administrative assistance (e-time, Bridge courses) and essential equipment/supplies for seamless nightly operations Performance Monitoring by conducting periodic route ride-a-longs and utilizing GPS tracking software to monitor driver performance, vehicle efficiency, and service quality Enforce strict security protocols to safeguard library materials and manage emergency response procedures for fleet accidents or service disruptions Oversee evening loading dock and warehouse operations, including discards consolidation and the strategic staging of outbound and special project shipments Serve as the primary point of contact for distribution requests via ServiceNow while collaborating with BookOps leadership, branch staff, and ReCAP partners on special projects Performs additional duties as required Required Education, Experience & Skills Required Education & Certifications Bachelor’s degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience Valid NYS driver’s license Required Experience 3-5 years of management/supervisory experience 5-7 years of related experience Required Skills Demonstrated experience in complex distribution, including route planning, truck loading, and fleet management Strong leadership skills, specifically in the areas of performance management, motivation, and team building Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to communicate clearly, and maintain organized, concise reports in a high-volume environment High degree of reliability, flexibility, and attention to detail, supported by proficiency in Microsoft Office and Google Workspace Basic mechanical knowledge of vehicles, with the ability to perform minor repairs and conduct visual safety inspections Proven track record of managing logistics and distribution workflows, with experience in large-scale library environments Managerial/Supervisory Responsibilities Supervises, trains, and evaluates a team of 11 Motor Vehicle Operators in a unionized environment More... Core Values All team members are expected and encouraged to embody the NYPL Core Values: Be Helpful to patrons and colleagues Be Resourceful in solving problems Be Curious in all aspects of your work Be Welcoming and Inclusive Work Environment Office setting, warehouse, and outdoors May require travel within NYC Physical Duties Sitting and/or standing may be required for long periods Bending, stooping, and/or reaching may be required Lifting up to 50 lbs. required Operates Manual and Electric Pallet Jacks Pre-Placement Physical Required? Yes Union/Non Union Non-Union FLSA Status Exempt Schedule 3pm-11pm - Sunday through Thursday 35 hours per week Some work outside of normal business hours as determined by business needs This job description represents the types and levels of responsibilities that will be required of the position and shall not be construed as a declaration of all of the specific duties and responsibilities for the role. Job duties may change if Library priorities change. Employees may be directed to perform job-related tasks other than those specifically presented in this description as needed. The New York Public Library Salary Statement At the Library, we believe that pay transparency and pay equity are important to ensuring we source the best candidates and keep the best employees. When making a determination as to the appropriate salary for a candidate, we consider a variety of factors such, including, but not limited to, the position requirements, the skills, prior experience, and educational background required or preferred for the job, the scope and impact of the role within the organization, internal peer equity, and the candidate's specific training, experience, education level, and skills. No single factor is conclusive; the Library reserves the right to consider any and all relevant factors and make a decision consistent with its policies. Union Salaries are determined by collective bargaining agreement(s).