NextGen Operations Program (NGOP) – Operations Leadership Development

Job Description

2027 NextGen Operations Program| Bolingbrook, IL | Women of the Vine & Spirits

The Tone:
This is an early career development program at Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits, located in Bolingbrook, IL. Southern Glazer’s is North America’s largest total beverage distributor, a family-owned business deeply rooted in the industry since 1933, and is focused on building the future of beverage distribution. This role is crucial as it’s designed to cultivate the next generation of operational leaders, equipping them with hands-on experience in core functions like logistics, warehousing, and distribution, thereby establishing a strong foundation for long-term management careers within the company’s national network.

The TL;DR
• Role: Early Career
• Type: Full-time
• Location: In-person Bolingbrook, IL
• Pay: $80000 yearly
• Mission: Develop future operational leaders by providing hands-on experience in logistics, warehousing, and distribution to prepare for management roles.

What You’ll Actually Do
• Rotate: Rotate across core operational functions including Outbound, Inbound, Logistics, and Inventory Control, taking on leadership assignments and projects within each area.
• Lead Projects: Lead and manage operational improvement projects, utilizing data and analytics to achieve measurable results and enhance overall warehouse efficiency and safety.
• Support Operations: Provide direct support to supervisors in day-to-day operations, actively working alongside frontline teams and motivating employees to achieve departmental goals.
• Analyze Processes: Systematically analyze existing processes and operational data to identify critical opportunities for improving efficiency, enhancing safety protocols, and boosting employee engagement.
• Present Findings: Present findings, insights, and strategic recommendations, including the Capstone Project, directly to senior leaders and Southern Glazer’s executives.

The Must-Haves
• Background: Associate Degree or Bachelor’s Degree, required for December 2026 or May 2027 graduates. Preferred fields of study include Business Administration/Management, Supply Chain/Logistics, Operations Management, or Industrial Engineering.
• Experience: Must be a graduating senior or up to two years post-graduation. Prior internship or work experience in logistics, supply chain, or warehousing is preferred. Demonstrated leadership experience through sports, student organizations, community involvement, military service, or past employment is also required.
• Skills: Strong leadership potential with the ability to connect with and motivate diverse teams. Excellent communication skills, coupled with robust problem-solving and decision-making abilities. Comfort and proficiency in working with data, analytics, and various technologies relevant to operations.
• Bonus: Willingness to relocate after program completion or travel as business needs require. Adaptability and resilience to succeed in a warehouse environment. Availability for overnight work during the 3-month outbound rotation. Must be 21 years old or older at the start of the program.