Sales Director

Sales DirectorWisconsin-based | Travel as needed, approximately 25%At Rapids Paper + Packaging, a Little Rapids Corporation Company, we're redefining what's possible in packaging. Our ECOVA™ platform is a recyclable, paper-based alternative to traditional plastic films—engineered to deliver performance, scalability, and sustainability without compromise.As regulatory pressures rise and brands accelerate efforts to eliminate plastics in packaging, ECOVA is positioned at the forefront of change.We are seeking a Sales Director to lead the growth and market adoption of this innovative platform. The ideal candidate will thrive in building markets, creating customer demand, and commercializing innovative packaging solutions.Why This Role is DifferentThis is not traditional packaging sales.You will:Lead growth of a category-defining conversion from plastic to paper-based packagingPartner with customers to replace conventional plastic packaging at scaleNavigate technical, operational, and sustainability-driven buying decisionsDrive longer-cycle, high-impact solution adoptionWhat You'll DoDrive Market Adoption & Revenue GrowthIdentify, develop, and win new opportunities for ECOVA™ across target marketsBuild and manage a robust pipeline focused on conversion from plastic to paper-based packagingExpand strategic accounts through new applications, products, and solutionsLead Solution-Based SellingPartner with customers to evaluate feasibility, performance, and conversion pathwaysSupport trial, qualification, and commercialization effortsPosition ECOVA against evolving regulatory and sustainability requirementsBuild Strategic RelationshipsEstablish trusted relationships with key customers, partners, and stakeholdersLead negotiations, pricing strategy, and contract developmentRepresent Rapids at industry events, trade shows, and customer engagementsLead & Develop a Sales TeamBuild and shape a high-performing commercial team while establishing the processes and customer focus needed to scale growthAlign team priorities with strategic market opportunitiesDrive accountability and performanceShape Strategy with Market InsightMonitor market trends, customer behavior, and competitive activityTranslate insights into actionable growth strategies and forecastsMaintain visibility into key opportunities and risks across the portfolioCollaborate Across the BusinessPartner cross-functionally with operations, R&D, and marketing to deliver solutionsAlign sales strategies with manufacturing capabilities and innovation pipelinesSupport continuous improvement and evolution of the sales processWhat You Bring5+ years of sales leadership experience, including team managementExperience in flexible packaging, paper, film, or adjacent manufacturing industriesProven track record of driving growth and winning new businessStrong background in consultative or solution-based sellingExperience navigating complex sales cycles with technical stakeholdersExposure to sustainability-driven products, packaging innovation, or material conversion strongly preferredKey StrengthsStrategic Thinking – Sees beyond individual deals to shape long-term growthBusiness Acumen – Understands financial drivers and market dynamicsInfluence & Negotiation – Drives outcomes while building lasting partnershipsProblem Solving – Navigates complexity and removes barriers to adoptionCommunication – Clearly articulates value across technical and business audiencesLeadership – Develops talent and drives team performanceWhy Join Rapids Paper + Packaging?Be part of a family-owned company with deep expertise in paper, printing, and packagingWork on a platform designed to replace plastics in packaging with recyclable alternativesHelp customers meet sustainability goals and evolving regulatory demandsPlay a visible role in shaping the future of packaging innovationApply TodayIf you're a strategic sales leader who thrives on driving change, building markets, and delivering growth—we'd love to connect.