Director of Operations

Director of Operations Job Description

Company Overview:

United Bags, Inc. is a 5th generation owned business, proudly serving since 1890 with a long-standing history as a leader in industrial bag and bulk packaging solutions. Over the decades, United Bags expanded its product range and market influence, becoming a trusted supplier across various industries. Today, United Bags is one of North America's largest bulk packaging distributors. The company offers a wide array of products, including FIBCs (bulk bags), woven polypropylene bags, paper bags, and custom packaging solutions. United Bags operates globally, with four U.S. distribution centers and the largest sales team in its industry. It emphasizes sustainability and community involvement through recycling initiatives and local engagement.

In addition to our headquarters in St. Louis, Missouri, we also operate locations in Louisiana, Michigan, and Texas.

Position Overview:

The Director of Operations will be directly responsible for managing a team of 30 consisting of sales assistants, 4 warehouse locations, and other operational staff. This role is ideal for a visionary yet hands-on leader who thrives in complex industrial environments and is passionate about long-term growth, performance excellence, and continuous improvement.

The Director of Operations will work closely with the executive leadership to ensure United Bags remain agile, efficient and customer focused. The role requires a strong balance of strategic planning and operational execution with an emphasis on measurable outcomes and cross-department leadership.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership:

• Develop and execute growth strategies aligned with United Bags' long-term goals in bulk packaging distribution.

• Identify market trends and new product opportunities (e.g., FIBCs, woven polypropylene bags).

• Drive innovation in sustainability and modern packaging technologies.

• Improve and document SOP's throughout the organization

Warehouse & Distribution Oversight:

• Oversee warehouse operations to ensure efficient order fulfillment and inventory control.

• Optimize logistics and shipping performance across all distribution centers.

• Ensure warehouse safety compliance and equipment upkeep.

• Ensure adherence to OSHA, ISO, SQF standards.

Cross-functional Team Leadership

• Lead and mentor department heads across sales, operations, customer service, and compliance.

• Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement.

• Provide regular performance updates and insights into company ownership/executive leadership.

• Analyze key performance indicators (KPIs) and adjust strategies as needed.

• Drive cost-efficiency initiatives in procurement, logistics, and labor.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in business administration or equivalent fields

• Minimum 5 years of progressive leadership experience in industrial manufacturing or packaging, with at least 5 years in a senior management role.

• Deep knowledge of manufacturing operations, supply chain logistics, quality control systems, and ERP platforms.

• Demonstrated success in P&L ownership, operational scaling, and cross-functional team management.

• Proven track record of leading cultural transformation, driving profitability, and executing strategic change in a mid-size to large enterprise.

• Superior interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to inspire and influence at all levels.

• Knowledge of relevant compliance areas such as OSHA, ISO certifications, and environmental regulations is highly desirable.

Additional Requirements:

• This role is based on-site at United Bags' headquarters and primary distribution center in St. Louis.

• Moderate travel required (up to 25%) to meet with vendors, customers, and partners.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary with performance bonus.

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.

• Paid time off, holiday pay.

• 401k and Profit sharing.

How to Apply:

Please submit your resume to jobs@unitedbags.com We look forward to having you join our industrial bag manufacturing team.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, and qualified applicants or employees will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, mental or physical disability, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other category protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.

Current Openings for Director of Operations Jobs at United Bags Inc.