Director of Operations – Wholesale Fuel & Lubricants
Position Summary
Our Client, a family-owned petroleum provider and headquartered in Northern MS, is seeking a dynamic Director of Operations to lead our operational excellence across fuels, lubricants, product delivery. As a key executive, you will oversee the end-to-end operations of our bulk plants and wholesale distribution network serving Mississippi, Tennessee, Arkansas, Alabama & Missouri. This role is pivotal in driving efficiency, ensuring regulatory compliance, and supporting our commitment to reliable, customer-focused solutions for agricultural, industrial, fleet, and consumer clients. The ideal candidate is a strategic leader with a proven track record in the energy sector, passionate about fostering a high-performance team in a hometown, community-driven environment.
Key Responsibilities:
Develop and implement operational strategies to optimize supply chain, logistics, and distribution for bulk oil, diesel, and lubricants across our multiple bulk plants and beyond.
Oversee daily operations, including fleet management, inventory control, and vendor relationships to minimize downtime and maximize cost savings.
Lead a team of dispatch specialists, drivers, and technicians, promoting a culture of safety, accountability, and exceptional customer service.
Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations (e.g., EPA, DOT, OSHA) for petroleum handling, and hazardous materials transport.
Analyze operational data to identify efficiencies, reduce waste, and support business growth, including expansion of wholesale accounts and propane services for agriculture and industrial clients.
Collaborate with sales, finance, and executive leadership to align operations with company goals, budgeting, and forecasting.
Manage risk and emergency response protocols, including fuel delivery to job sites and 24/7 support for critical clients.
Drive continuous improvement initiatives, such as adopting new technologies for route optimization and inventory tracking.
Qualifications
Education: Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Engineering, or a related field; Master's degree or MBA preferred.
Experience: Minimum of 7 years in operations leadership, with at least 5 years in the oil & gas, petroleum distribution, or energy sector.
Proven leadership in multi-site operations, including logistics, fleet management, and retail fuel/convenience store environments.
Experience with bulk fuel delivery, or agricultural/industrial client support is highly desirable.
Skills and Competencies:
Strong leadership and team-building abilities, with a focus on employee development and a positive, collaborative work ethic.
Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills; proficiency in operational software (e.g., ERP systems, inventory management tools).
In-depth knowledge of safety regulations, supply chain logistics, and cost-control strategies in the petroleum industry.
Superior communication and interpersonal skills for stakeholder engagement, from field teams to executive partners.
Adaptability in a fast-paced, rural-to-regional environment; valid driver's license and willingness to travel (up to 50% within area of operation).
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite; experience with data analytics tools a plus.
Working Conditions and Physical Requirements
Primarily office-based with regular field visits to bulk plants and delivery sites.
What We Offer
Our Client values its people as our greatest asset. We provide competitive compensation base salary commensurate with experience, plus performance bonuses, comprehensive benefits including health insurance, 401(k) matching, paid vacation, car allowance and opportunities for professional growth in a stable, family-oriented company.
#LI-BK1
