Req ID 81111 | Ostrov, Czech Republic, ZF Aftermarket Ostrov s.r.o.
About the Role
We are looking for an experienced people leader to take charge as Head of our new Distribution Center in Ostrov – a key project for ZF Aftermarket and a future benchmark for logistics across Europe.
The center is currently in its ramp-up phase:
In July 2025, the first warehouse operators joined for testing. The go-live is planned for October 2025. The current hall covers 55,000 m²; construction of a second, 45,000 m² facility will begin in 2026.
As the Head of DC, you will be responsible not only for Logistics Operations, but also for a broad portfolio of critical areas, including Quality Assurance, EHS, Facility & Maintenance, and others.
You’ll oversee both the launch of the first hall and the development of the second – from ground works to full operations. This is a unique opportunity to shape the culture, structure, and long-term direction of a high-impact logistics hub.
What can you look forward to as Head of Distribution Center (m/f/d)?
Full responsibility for the ramp-up and long-term development of a flagship, best-in-class distribution center. Leadership across a broad set of functional areas. Opportunity to build and inspire a cross-functional team from the ground up – shaping a shared culture of ownership, motivation, and continuous improvement. Active role in the design, construction, and strategic launch of the second facility (45,000 m²), set to begin in 2026. Day-to-day cooperation with experienced local teams (operations, HR, support), who are highly engaged. Implementation and continuous optimization of performance frameworks (KPI) to drive excellence and proactively respond to deviations – supported by central analytics teams. Chance to set the tone and vision for how the site operates – mindset and team spirit. Close collaboration with ZF’s central logistics, IT, and automation teams to drive innovation, and smart logistics solutions. A visible and strategic leadership role within ZF Aftermarket – with the opportunity to position Ostrov as a model site for the European DC network.
Your Profile:
Proven experience in leading large-scale warehouse or distribution center operations with strong knowledge of LEAN/Six Sigma, ideally with oversight of multiple domains beyond operations (e.g. Quality, EHS, Maintenance). Strong people leadership skills – you build high-performing teams, shape culture, and know how to inspire and motivate others. Experience managing cross-functional teams. Skilled in building engagement and continuous improvement mindset across diverse teams. Strong project and change management capabilities, preferably with exposure to greenfield or major transformation projects. Deep understanding of logistics KPIs, process optimization, modern warehouse technologies, and adept at identifying and addressing business risks and issues. Fluent in Czech and English; German is a plus. Willingness to be present on-site in Ostrov and to travel as needed.
Why to choose ZF in Ostrov?
You will lead one of the most important logistics projects in ZF Aftermarket. Freedom to shape the culture, processes, and structure of a flagship site. Access to modern systems, automation and smart logistics technologies. Chance to be part of a dedicated team that sees this project as their personal mission. Performance and annual bonuses, anniversary rewards. Competitive compensation and benefits, including company car. 5 weeks of holiday, flexible working hours. Language courses and external training. Subsidized lunches and regular monthly cafeteria allowance.
Be part of our ZF team as Head of Distribution Center, region Karlovy Vary (m/f/d) and apply now!
Contact
Kristýna Fořtová
+420 373 736 376