Training Manager - Distribution Division

About the Role

The Training Manager is responsible for developing, delivering, and managing comprehensive learning programs within the distribution center. This role ensures frontline associates and leaders are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and behaviors needed to drive operational excellence, safety, and productivity. The position oversees instructional design, LMS administration, facilitation, and leadership development while partnering closely with operations leadership.

You’ll Make a Difference By

Distribution Center Training & Operational Integration

• Partnering with Operations, Safety, and HR to identify training needs aligned with business goals
• Developing and maintaining training programs for core DC functions (receiving, picking, packing, shipping, inventory control)
• Ensuring training aligns with SOPs, WMS processes, and safety standards
• Supporting onboarding programs to accelerate time-to-productivity for new hires
• Maintaining strong presence on the warehouse floor to ensure training effectiveness and relevance

Performance Tracking & Reporting

• Partnering with Distribution Analytics team and Operations to measure training effectiveness through KPIs (productivity, error rates, safety incidents, retention), providing regular reports to leadership
• Using data to refine programs and improve outcomes

Instructional Design & Content Development

• Designing and developing end-to-end training programs using instructional design methodologies (e.g., ADDIE, SAM)
• Creating blended learning solutions including instructor-led training (ILT), eLearning, job aids, and on-the-job training materials
• Translating operational processes into clear, engaging, and effective learning content
• Continuously evaluating and updating training materials based on process changes and feedback

Learning Management System (LMS) Administration

• Administering and managing the organization’s LMS, including course assignments, tracking, and reporting
• Building and maintaining learning paths, certifications, and compliance training programs
• Monitoring training completion, audit readiness, and regulatory compliance
• Generating and analyzing reports to measure training effectiveness and identify gaps
• Partnering with HR and IT to optimize LMS functionality and user experience

Training Facilitation & Delivery

• Facilitating training sessions for hourly associates, leads, and supervisors in both classroom and on-the-floor environments
• Creating a learning journey for positions for a regular cadence throughout the year and career progression
• Leading new hire orientation and onboarding programs
• Delivering training on safety, systems (WMS/RF), and operational processes
• Coaching and supporting supervisors in reinforcing training on the floor
• Ensuring training delivery is engaging, practical, and aligned with adult learning principles

Leadership Development

• Designing and implementing leadership development programs for frontline leaders and supervisors
• Delivering training for core leadership skills such as coaching, communication, performance management, and accountability
• Supporting the development of internal talent pipelines for future leadership roles
• Partnering with site leadership to identify and develop high-potential employees
• Providing ongoing coaching and guidance to leaders to reinforce learning application
• Assisting with other responsibilities based on business needs.

About You

Required Experience

• 5+ years of experience in training, learning & development, or related field
• 2–3+ years of experience in a distribution center, warehouse, or manufacturing environment
• Proven experience in instructional design, facilitation, and LMS administration

Technical Skills

• Experience with LMS platforms (e.g., Workday Learning, Cornerstone, SuccessFactors, Docebo)
• Familiarity with WMS systems and warehouse technologies (RF scanners, etc.)
• Experience with eLearning development tools (e.g., Articulate, Captivate) preferred
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially Excel for reporting and analysis

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Human Resources, Education, or related field (or equivalent experience)

Key Competencies

• Strong understanding of distribution center operations and workflows
• Ability to translate complex processes into effective training modes
• Excellent facilitation and communication skills
• Data-driven mindset with the ability to measure training impact
• Strong stakeholder management and collaboration skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience launching training programs in a new or rapidly growing distribution center
• Knowledge of Lean principles (5S, Kaizen, continuous improvement)
• Professional certifications (ATD, CPTD, or similar)
• Experience building leadership development programs for frontline leaders
• Bilingual (English and Spanish) is a plus

About Ariat

Ariat is an innovative, outdoor global brand with roots in equestrian performance. We develop high-quality footwear and apparel for people who ride, work, and play outdoors, and care about performance, quality, comfort, and style.

Ariat’s holistic benefits package for full-time team members includes (but is not limited to):

• Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance options
• Expanded wellness and mental health benefits
• Paid time off (PTO), paid holidays, and paid volunteer days
• 401(k) with company match
• Bonus incentive plans
• Team member discount on Ariat merchandise

Note: Availability of benefits may be subject to location & employment type and may have certain eligibility requirements. Ariat reserves the right to alter these benefits in whole or in part at any time without advance notice.

Ariat will consider qualified applicants, including those with criminal histories, in a manner consistent with state and local laws. Ariat is an Equal Opportunity Employer and considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, orientation, national origin, age, disability, genetics or any other basis protected under federal, state, or local law. Ariat is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to candidates with disabilities. If you need an accommodation during the application process, email human.resources@ariat.com.

Please see our Employment Candidate Privacy Policy at www.ariat.com/careers to learn more about how we collect, use, retain and disclose Personal Information.

Please note that Ariat does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters or employment agencies. In the absence of a signed Agreement, Ariat will not consider or agree to payment of any referral compensation or recruiter/agency placement fee. In the event a recruiter or agency submits a resume or candidate without a previously signed Agreement, Ariat explicitly reserves the right to pursue and hire those candidate(s) without any financial obligation to the recruiter or agency. Any unsolicited resumes, including those submitted directly to hiring managers, are deemed to be the property of Ariat.