Richard Oleary

About Richard Oleary

At Lane Automotive, I’m leading the reinvention of distribution logistics through automation, data-driven process improvements, and omni-channel integration. Our recent implementation of a goods-to-person robotics system has dramatically improved efficiency, reduced labor strain, and optimized storage — setting a new standard for our operations.Prior to this, I held senior distribution leadership roles at Phillips Pet Food & Supplies, Sherwin-Williams, and MSC Industrial Supply. Across these organizations, I’ve driven large-scale initiatives to optimize private fleet usage, streamline operations across multiple facilities, and align distribution strategy with business growth goals — all while improving service levels and reducing costs.What drives me is leading high-impact, cross-functional teams that solve real problems. I’m passionate about building sustainable, scalable systems that empower people, improve safety, and deliver meaningful bottom-line results. Let’s connect if you\'re passionate about the future of fulfillment, logistics, or building next-generation teams.

Experience

1. Director of Distribution Operations and Continuous Improvement

   Lane Automotive

   Jun 2022 — Present · Watervliet, MI, US

   Led a successful turnaround of Distribution Operations with end-to-end oversight across retail and wholesale channels, including transportation, returns, warranty, and private brand packaging.Implemented and integrated a goods-to-person robotics system (Exotec), boosting storage capacity and streamlining pick/pack operations. Drove key performance initiatives, reducing labor hours by 11.6% YoY in 2024 through forecasting tools, activity-based metrics, and frontline leadership engagement.Developed and mentored leadership bench, including potential successor. Partnered with HR to cut annualized turnover from 135%(2022) to a projected 45%(2024) by instilling a culture of servant leadership and accountability.Installed a safety values program that lowered OSHA recordables to a TRR of 1.36, empowering a safety committee and engaging team members in proactive audits and improvements.

Education

• University of Nevada, Reno

  Bachelors, Business administration-Finance, Economics Minor

Skills

• Cross-Functional Team Leadership
• Lean Operations
• Budget Process
• Cross Functional Team Building
• Inventory Management
• Inventory Control
• Continuous Improvement
• Dashboard Metrics
• Lean Tools
• Capital Budgeting
• Strategy
• Sales Management
• Project Management
• Business Planning
• Operations Management
• Process Improvement
• Team Building
• Management
• Leadership
• Sales Operations
• Customer Service
• Microsoft Office
• Sales