VP of Operational Excellence – Buyout Portfolio

Are you an operations leader with a proven track record of transforming processes and driving performance improvements across manufacturing environments? We are seeking a Vice President of Operational Excellence to join a high-growth buyout portfolio company in Port St. Lucie, FL. This is a unique opportunity to lead enterprise-wide operational strategies, instill a culture of continuous improvement, and play a critical role in scaling a thriving organization backed by private equity.

Drive Transformation and Operational Impact in a PE-Backed Environment

A dynamic buyout portfolio company located in Port St. Lucie, FL is looking for a Vice President of Operational Excellence to lead and implement strategic initiatives that improve efficiency, productivity, and profitability. The ideal candidate will bring deep experience in Lean, Six Sigma, and change management across multi-site operations. If you excel in data-driven decision-making and have a passion for empowering teams through structured process improvements, this is your chance to be a cornerstone of growth in a performance-focused environment.

Key Responsibilities of the Vice President of Operational Excellence – Buyout Portfolio

Enterprise-Wide Operational Strategy:
Develop and lead the implementation of a comprehensive operational excellence roadmap across the organization. Align strategic objectives with performance metrics to drive continuous improvement and long-term value creation.

Lean & Six Sigma Implementation:
Champion Lean, Six Sigma, and other process improvement methodologies to optimize productivity, reduce waste, and enhance quality across all business functions. Build a structured problem-solving culture across teams and departments.

Manufacturing & Supply Chain Optimization:
Identify and eliminate bottlenecks in manufacturing and supply chain processes. Improve plant performance, OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness), and throughput while reducing lead times and operational costs.

Performance Management & KPI Development:
Establish, track, and report on operational KPIs across departments. Use data analytics and dashboards to monitor performance, identify trends, and recommend actionable insights for process improvements.

Cross-Functional Leadership & Change Management:
Lead cross-functional teams through change initiatives that align with company goals. Engage plant managers, department heads, and frontline teams in achieving a culture of accountability, agility, and operational discipline.

Cost Reduction & Margin Improvement:
Identify opportunities for cost reduction and margin enhancement through improved procurement, vendor management, and workflow redesign. Implement scalable solutions that support both top-line growth and bottom-line performance.

Team Development & Talent Enablement:
Build, mentor, and manage high-performing operational teams. Promote talent development through structured training, coaching, and succession planning to sustain a high-impact culture.

Technology & Systems Integration:
Drive the adoption of modern technologies, automation tools, and digital systems that enhance visibility, control, and efficiency in core operations. Lead ERP optimization or implementation projects as needed.

Private Equity Partnership & Value Creation:
Collaborate closely with the PE sponsor and executive leadership to identify value-creation levers and support post-investment transformation. Provide transparent reporting, progress updates, and strategic input to board-level stakeholders.

Compliance & Risk Mitigation:
Ensure operational practices align with safety, regulatory, and environmental compliance standards. Lead risk assessments, develop contingency plans, and maintain business continuity readiness.

What the Client is Looking for in You

As the Vice President of Operational Excellence, the client seeks a transformative operations leader with a strong foundation in process improvement, strategic execution, and organizational change management. You should be a results-driven executive who thrives in dynamic, fast-paced environments and is passionate about building scalable systems, empowering teams, and driving sustainable operational performance.

Expertise in Operational Excellence and Lean Transformation
The client is looking for a hands-on leader with deep expertise in Lean, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methodologies. You should have a proven track record of designing and implementing enterprise-wide operational strategies that deliver measurable results in manufacturing, supply chain, or industrial environments.

Strategic Execution in a PE-Backed Environment
You must be able to execute strategic operational plans with precision and urgency, particularly in a private equity-backed setting. Experience working with PE sponsors, delivering on value-creation plans, and supporting growth through disciplined execution is highly desirable.

Data-Driven Decision Maker
The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical and problem-solving skills. You should be able to harness operational data and KPIs to identify inefficiencies, uncover opportunities, and drive decision-making that leads to enhanced performance, cost savings, and profitability.

Strong Leadership & Team Development
The client is seeking a leader who can build, lead, and develop high-performing operational teams. You must demonstrate the ability to mentor managers, foster collaboration across departments, and instill a continuous improvement mindset throughout the organization.

Manufacturing and Supply Chain Savvy
Hands-on experience optimizing manufacturing operations, plant performance, and supply chain logistics is essential. You should be capable of enhancing throughput, improving quality standards, reducing costs, and managing vendor and supplier relationships effectively.

Process-Oriented with a Growth Mindset
This role requires someone with both a tactical and strategic mindset—someone who can roll up their sleeves to solve immediate operational issues while also building systems that support long-term scalability and efficiency.

Excellent Communication and Stakeholder Alignment
You should be able to communicate complex operational challenges and solutions clearly and persuasively to internal stakeholders, executive leadership, and private equity partners. Experience presenting results and progress reports to boards or investment committees is a significant plus.

Commitment to Compliance, Safety, and Risk Mitigation
The client values a leader who places a high priority on safety, compliance, and risk management. You should have a strong understanding of regulatory frameworks, workplace safety standards, and quality assurance practices to ensure smooth, ethical, and compliant operations.

FAQs About the Role – Vice President of Operational Excellence

1. What are the key responsibilities of the VP of Operational Excellence in this role?
As the Vice President of Operational Excellence, you will be responsible for driving strategic process improvements across all facets of the organization. Key responsibilities include implementing Lean and Six Sigma methodologies, enhancing supply chain and manufacturing efficiency, leading change management initiatives, and supporting enterprise-wide operational transformation. You’ll also collaborate with executive leadership and private equity stakeholders to deliver measurable results aligned with the company’s value-creation plan.

2. What qualifications and experience are required for this position?
The ideal candidate should have 10+ years of experience in operational leadership roles, preferably in industrial, manufacturing, or supply chain-intensive environments. Prior experience implementing continuous improvement programs and working within a private equity-backed organization is highly preferred. A background in Lean, Six Sigma (Black Belt or Master Black Belt certification is a plus), and proven success in leading cross-functional teams is essential. An engineering, operations, or business degree is required; an advanced degree (MBA or equivalent) is advantageous.

3. What leadership qualities are essential for this role?
The client seeks a hands-on, data-driven leader with a passion for process excellence. You should be adept at leading transformational change, mentoring operational teams, and aligning people, processes, and systems for maximum impact. Strong communication, analytical thinking, and the ability to influence across all levels of the organization are vital.

4. What challenges can I expect in this role?
You’ll face challenges typical of a PE-backed transformation environment: aggressive timelines, performance improvement pressures, cultural alignment, and integration of new processes across decentralized operations. The ability to quickly assess the current state, identify bottlenecks, and execute on high-impact initiatives will be crucial to success.

5. What is the expected impact of the VP of Operational Excellence on the company’s performance?
This role is instrumental in delivering operational efficiency, cost reduction, and scalability. Your success will directly impact EBITDA improvement, customer satisfaction, and operational agility. You will also play a central role in preparing the business for future growth and potential exit events.

6. What is the company’s culture and work environment like?
The company operates in a high-performance, results-oriented culture shaped by private equity ownership. It values accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement. You’ll work closely with executive leadership and plant-level teams in a fast-paced, hands-on environment that rewards strategic thinking and execution.

What Remuneration Can You Expect from This Job?

As the Vice President of Operational Excellence in Port St. Lucie, FL, you can expect a robust and competitive compensation package tailored to attract accomplished leaders in operations and continuous improvement. This package reflects both the strategic importance of the role and the expectations of performance in a private equity-backed environment.

1. Base Salary

The base salary for a VP of Operational Excellence in a buyout portfolio company typically ranges between $180,000 and $250,000 per year, depending on the candidate’s experience, the company’s size and complexity, and alignment with private equity value-creation goals.

2. Performance-Based Bonuses

Annual bonuses are a key component of compensation and are directly tied to key performance indicators (KPIs), such as EBITDA improvement, operational efficiency gains, supply chain optimization, and cost savings. Bonus opportunities often range from 25% to 50% of the base salary and may increase based on exceptional results.

3. Equity Participation

As part of a private equity-backed portfolio company, you may be eligible for an equity stake or profit-sharing arrangement, such as stock options or participation in the company’s carried interest or management incentive plan (MIP). This can significantly enhance long-term wealth potential, especially if the company executes a successful exit (e.g., IPO or sale).

4. Long-Term Incentive Plans (LTIPs)

LTIPs are designed to reward sustained performance over a 3–5 year period. These can include deferred bonuses, milestone-based incentives, or additional equity grants that vest over time, providing meaningful financial upside based on operational and strategic value delivery.

5. Benefits & Executive Perks

You can expect a full suite of executive benefits, including:

Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
401(k) plan with company match
Life and disability insurance
Paid time off and holidays
Professional development allowances
Business travel and relocation support (if applicable)

6. Signing Bonuses & Relocation Assistance

To attract top-tier operational leaders, some companies may offer signing bonuses or relocation packages. These one-time incentives typically range from $10,000 to $50,000, based on candidate seniority and market demand.

Total Compensation Potential

When considering base salary, bonus potential, and equity or incentive participation, total annual compensation for this role can range between $250,000 and $500,000+, especially when factoring in successful execution of operational improvements and value-creation targets.

How to Apply

If you are a results-oriented operational leader with a track record of driving process improvement, lean manufacturing, and value creation within complex organizations, we encourage you to apply for the Vice President of Operational Excellence role based in Port St. Lucie, FL. This is a unique opportunity to join a high-impact buyout portfolio company and lead enterprise-wide initiatives that directly influence growth, scalability, and profitability.

To apply, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your experience in lean transformations, Six Sigma, cross-functional leadership, cost optimization, and operational turnaround. Be sure to highlight examples of successful KPI improvements, organizational efficiency gains, and your ability to drive cultural change within fast-paced manufacturing or distribution environments.

This role represents a career-defining opportunity to play a key role in transforming a business backed by a leading private equity sponsor. Apply today to take the next step in your executive journey as VP of Operational Excellence in Port St. Lucie, FL.

For more information or to explore similar operational leadership opportunities, visit our Private Equity Portfolio Executive Jobs page.

Job Category: Buyout Portfolio

Job Type: Full Time

Job Location: Port St. Lucie

VP of Operational Excellence – Port St. Lucie, FL | Buyout Portfolio