Vice President of Retail Propane Operations

Our Story

Most people like to be a member of a family and a part of the team. Here at JS West that is exactly what you’ll experience. JS West & Companies is all about family. We’re family owned and operated and have been for more than a century. Our whole philosophy of business embraces the bonds, trust and loyalty found in the family unit and extends to our family of employees, customers and community.

We have an exciting and inviting opportunity for a Vice President of Retail Propane Operations to be based in our Corporate Office. The Vice President of Retail Propane Operations is a senior executive responsible for overseeing all aspects of propane operations. This role involves strategic leadership, operational management, and regulatory compliance to ensure the safe, efficient, and profitable delivery of propane services to residential, commercial, and industrial customers. The VP drives operational excellence, manages a team of directors and managers, and collaborates with other departments to align propane operations with company goals and industry standards

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Develop and implement operational strategies for propane distribution, storage, and delivery across our divisions, aligning with corporate objectives.

2. Identify growth opportunities in the propane market, including new customer segments or geographic expansion.

3. Monitor industry trends, competitive landscape, and emerging technologies to maintain a leadership position in the west coast propane sector.

4. Manage storage facilities, bulk plants, and distribution networks to meet demand while optimizing costs.

5. Ensure timely maintenance of equipment, vehicles, and infrastructure to uphold operational standards.

6. Ensure compliance with federal propane safety standards (e.g., NFPA 58; CARB); West coast regulations; and California-specific regulations, such as those from the California Energy Commission, Cal/OSHA, and the Department of Transportation.

7. Lead incident response planning and coordinate with regulatory agencies during audits or investigations

Management Responsibilities:

1. Lead and mentor a team of operational managers, supervisors, drivers, and support staff across multiple locations.

2. Set performance goals, provide training, and foster a culture of safety, accountability, and customer focus.

3. Collaborate with HR to recruit and retain skilled personnel, including licensed drivers and technicians.

4. Develop and manage the propane operations budget, controlling costs related to fuel, labor, and equipment while meeting revenue targets.

5. Analyze financial performance metrics (e.g., delivery efficiency, cost per gallon) and implement cost-saving initiatives.

6. Work with the finance team to forecast demand and plan capital expenditure for operational growth.

7. Ensure high levels of customer satisfaction by maintaining reliable delivery schedules and responsive service.

8. Build relationships with key clients, suppliers, and local government entities to support business objectives.

9. Represent the company in industry associations or community events.

Additional Responsibilities:

1. Explore opportunities to integrate low-emission technologies or renewable propane solutions to align with west coast environmental goals (e.g., reducing greenhouse gas emissions).

2. Evaluate and adopt innovative tools, such as route optimization software or tank monitoring systems, to enhance operational efficiency.

Qualifications:

1. Education: Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Operations Management, Engineering, or a related field. A Master’s degree (e.g., MBA) is preferred.

2. Experience: Minimum of 10-15 years of progressive experience in operations management, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role. Experience in the propane, energy, or logistics industry is desirable

3. Familiarity with regulatory environment, including energy and transportation laws.

4. Proficiency in financial analysis, budgeting, and performance metrics.

5. Exceptional leadership and team-building abilities.

6. Strategic thinking with a focus on operational efficiency and growth.

7. Excellent communication and negotiation skills.

8. Problem-solving and decision-making under pressure.

9. Valid driver’s license; willingness to travel within the state as needed.

10. Hazmat endorsement preferred.

11. Commercial license preferred.

Working Conditions:

1. Primarily office-based with frequent visits to operational sites (e.g., bulk plants, delivery hubs) across western states.

2. May require occasional evening or weekend work to address operational emergencies or meet deadlines.

3. Exposure to outdoor environments and propane-related facilities, requiring adherence to safety protocols

Our company offers excellent benefits including Medical, Dental, Vision, Long Term Disability, Life Insurance, ESOP, 401(k), Vacation, Sick Leave, and Holidays.

Pay: $240,000 - $245,000/year

If you are ready to lead with passion and make a significant impact within a family-oriented company, we invite you to apply for the Vice President of Operations position at JS West today!

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $240,000.00 - $245,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Schedule:

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8 hour shift

Education:

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Bachelor's (Required)

Experience:

Ability to Relocate:

Work Location: In person