Director of Operations

For over 80 years, Ernest has been committed to the success of our extended family, our customers, our employees, and the packaging industry itself. When you work with Ernest, you’ll enjoy the advantages of learning proven methods of success, a proactive approach, and having fun while earning what you’re worth with a lot of really awesome people. Position Title: Director of Operations Location: San Luis Obispo, CA Employment Type: Full-Time, 100% onsite Pay range: 90 - 120k base + bonus Director of Operations The Director of Operations is responsible for leading all activities related to the daily operations and growth of the division. This role provides clear direction, strong leadership, and consistent motivation to ensure operational excellence across the business. Through effective collaboration with customers, vendors, and employees, the Director of Operations fulfills our commitment to profitability while strengthening the relationships that drive long term success. This position serves as the central point of alignment within a dynamic operation, harnessing the strength of our people and processes to deliver meaningful results for our customers and the company. At Ernest, when one person moves ahead, we all move forward. This role plays a critical part in creating that momentum. Expectations, Qualifications, and Goals Uphold the company’s core values in every interaction with customers, vendors, employees, and the sales force. Direct the day to day operations of the division. Manage, supervise, train, motivate, and maintain full accountability for office, warehouse, customer service, purchasing, accounting, and inventory functions and departments. Equip, support, and hold departmental leaders accountable for adopting company and divisional initiatives and change efforts. Assume personal accountability for balancing customer demand with company policies and supplier requirements. Manage, support, train, and cultivate the development and success of inside staff. Maintain strong employee morale and a positive working environment. Maximize division profitability by implementing programs that improve service performance and inventory management efficiency. Ensure all delivery commitments are met in the most efficient manner while maintaining the lowest internal cost structure possible. Authorize time worked and time lost in accordance with company policies for inside staff. Observe and instruct employees on safety and security procedures. Define responsibilities of assigned staff positions to achieve business objectives. Provide regular performance feedback and conduct annual reviews. Develop and maintain an annual business plan that includes programs focused on improving profitability. Coordinate projects and implement and sustain cost saving measures. Review daily reports, support the Sales Manager with account and salesperson analysis, and lead the resolution of operational issues. Monitor inventory levels and maintain healthy turn rates. Consistently strive to exceed company goals related to gross profit production, gross profit percentage, and overall profitability. Requirements 3 to 5 years of experience managing a business operation, with direct responsibility for day to day performance, team leadership, and operational outcomes. Demonstrated experience leading cross functional teams, ideally including customer service, purchasing, and warehouse or distribution center environments. Proven ability to motivate teams, drive accountability, and align operational execution with company objectives. Strong working knowledge of ERP systems with the ability to navigate, analyze, and leverage data to drive operational decisions. SAP experience is preferred but not required. Experience balancing customer expectations with operational policies and supplier partnerships. Lean Six Sigma certification or training is a plus. Strong organizational, analytical, and decision making skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment. A four year degree is preferred. Relevant operational leadership experience will also be strongly considered. Why Ernest At Ernest, your betterment is powered by our connected culture. When you move ahead, we all move forward. We believe strong operations start with strong relationships. You will have the opportunity to lead, develop people, and drive meaningful results in an environment that values accountability, growth, and ownership. If you are looking to make a real impact while being part of a team that supports and challenges you, Ernest is the place to do it. Want to see what makes us Ernest? Hit play on our latest videos: Newest Company Video with Keanu Reeves! Watch us make a cardboard skateboard with Tony Hawk! Ernest is a nationwide company, but did you know that our humble roots started in a Los Angeles garage? Brothers Ernie and Charles Wilson founded the company in 1946 with a dedication to customized service. Even after decades of delivering great packaging to our customers, that commitment has never changed. We always find the best solution to fit our customers’ needs, even if we have to invent it!