General Manager

Advantage Containers is looking for an experienced, hands-on General Manager to lead our Chicago operation.

We are an established leader in the shipping container industry, operating a container depot, selling containers, and operating one of the Midwest’s premier container modification shops. For more than 30 years, our team has built a strong reputation for quality, service and creative container solutions.

We’re looking for a proven leader who is passionate about people, operations and results, someone who can build on what is already working, develop a strong team and take ownership of the overall performance and profitability of the operation.

This is a hands-on leadership role. Our General Manager will be visible and engaged in the operation, know the team and understand the work while providing the leadership needed to take Advantage Containers to the next level.

What You’ll Own

Lead, Manage & Hold People Accountable

• Lead, develop and hold accountable the team across our Chicago operations.
• Recruit, hire, develop, reward and retain great employees.
• Set clear expectations, recognize strong performance and address issues directly and professionally.
• Build a positive, accountable workplace where people take pride in their work.

Own the Operation

• Oversee the day-to-day performance of our container modification and depot operations, while working closely with our container sales team—the three core areas of our Chicago business.
• Stay close to production, workflow, scheduling, equipment, quality and customer commitments.
• Identify and solve operational issues while continuously looking for ways to improve efficiency and performance.
• Maintain existing and build new strong relationships with key customers, vendors and suppliers.

Own the Results

• Take responsibility for the overall performance and profitability of the Chicago operation.
• Make sound business decisions that improve productivity, service and financial results.
• Understand and manage the key drivers of labor, material, equipment and operating costs.
• Use meaningful performance metrics to create accountability and drive results.

Own Safety, Quality & Customer Service

• Champion a safe workplace and hold the team accountable to established safety expectations.
• Ensure our work meets quality standards and customer expectations.
• Maintain an clean, organized, professional and productive shop, depot and yard.

What We’re Looking For

We’re more interested in proven leadership ability than a specific industry background or college degree.

• 5+ years of management and leadership experience, preferably in operations, manufacturing, construction, trucking, equipment rental, waste/recycling, logistics or a similar hands-on environment.
• Demonstrated ability to lead, manage and develop a strong team.
• Experience recruiting, hiring, developing and retaining employees.
• Experience managing an operation where productivity, quality, safety and customer service all matter.
• Strong business judgment and an understanding of how operating decisions affect profitability.
• Strong problem-solving, organizational and communication skills.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment and making decisions.
• Willingness to be hands-on and highly visible in the operation.

Container industry experience is not required. A college degree is not required.

Schedule & Benefits

• Full-time, on-site leadership position
• Monday through Friday
• Typical start time around 6:00 a.m.
• Approximately 50–55+ hours per week during busy periods
• Health insurance
• 401(k) with employer match
• Paid time off and paid holidays

Why Advantage Containers / TKI?

Advantage Containers is part of Tom Kraemer, Inc., a third-generation family-owned company that has been in business since 1938.

You’ll have the opportunity to lead an established Chicago operation with an experienced team, while having the resources and support of a growing organization behind you.

This is an opportunity for someone who wants more than a title. You’ll have the authority to make decisions, develop people and directly impact the success of the business.

If you’re a hands-on leader who enjoys building great teams, solving problems and delivering results, we want to hear from you.

Advantage Containers, LLC / Tom Kraemer, Inc. provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws.

Pay: $110,000.00 - $140,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Health insurance
• Paid time off

Work Location: In person