Pete Pappas & Sons, Inc. is a fourth-generation, family-owned grower, packer, shipper, and distributor of premium produce with more than 80 years of history. What began with a pushcart in 1901 has grown into a dynamic, vertically integrated operation serving retail and foodservice customers across the Mid-Atlantic. Today, we operate a 120,000-square-foot facility in Jessup, Maryland. We remain deeply committed to customer service, sustainability, and continuous improvement.
We are proud of our legacy—but even more excited about our future
Position Overview
The Vice President of Operations is a key executive leader responsible for overseeing all operational functions, including production, warehouse, transportation, and quality. This role partners closely with the President, ownership, and senior leadership to translate strategy into disciplined execution, ensuring operational excellence, scalability, and sustainable growth.
We are seeking a hands-on, disciplined leader with the ability to set high standards, drive accountability, and consistently follow through. The ideal candidate brings structure, process, and clarity to complex operations while developing strong leaders and teams.
Key Responsibilities
Operational Leadership & Execution
- Lead all operational functions with a strong focus on discipline, consistency, and measurable results
- Establish clear performance standards, KPIs, and operating rhythms to ensure goals are met
- Ensure effective resource planning, workflow optimization, and cross-functional alignment
Strategic Planning & Business Transformation
- Translate company vision into executable operational strategies and long-term plans
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives across supply chain efficiency, cost control, and service levels
- Champion change initiatives while maintaining operational stability and employee engagement
Financial & Data-Driven Management
- Oversee operational budgets, forecasts, and cost control initiatives
- Use data, analytics, and business intelligence to inform decisions and improve profitability
Talent Development & Culture
- Build, coach, and develop strong leaders across operations
- Lead hiring, training, performance management, and succession planning for operational teams
- Foster a culture of accountability, safety, collaboration, and disciplined execution
Compliance, Safety & Quality
- Ensure strict compliance with food safety, quality, regulatory, and industry requirements
- Promote a proactive safety culture across all operations
Qualifications & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree in Business Administration, Operations Management, or related field preferred
- Minimum of 10 years of progressive leadership experience in operations, production, or supply chain environments
- Proven ability to lead large teams and manage complex, fast-paced operations
- Strong strategic, analytical, and critical-thinking skills
- Exceptional communication and stakeholder leadership abilities
- Bilingual Spanish/English is a plus
The Ideal Candidate
- Demonstrates a disciplined mindset with a strong focus on execution and follow-through
- Comfortable setting high expectations and holding teams accountable
- Balances strategic thinking with hands-on operational leadership
- Thrives in a family-owned business environment with high standards and long-term vision
- Values teamwork, integrity, and continuous improvement
Working Conditions
- Office and refrigerated warehouse environments
- Occasional travel for conferences or training
- Ability to lift and move up to 50 lbs as needed