Role Overview for Operating Partner, Industrials with a PE Group – Phoenix, AZ
JRG Partners is proud to represent a premier, middle-market Private Equity firm in their search for a distinguished Operating Partner specializing in the Industrials sector. Based in the vibrant business hub of Phoenix, Arizona, this is a pivotal leadership role designed for a seasoned executive with a profound track record of driving operational transformation and substantial value creation. Our client has a long history of successful investments and a collaborative culture that empowers its portfolio companies to achieve market leadership. They focus on acquiring and growing businesses across various industrial sub-sectors, including specialty manufacturing, value-added distribution, and industrial services.
As the Operating Partner, you will be a critical member of the firm’s value creation team. You will not be a distant consultant; you will be a hands-on, strategic leader who partners directly with the C-suite of portfolio companies to unlock their full potential. This role requires a unique blend of deep operational expertise, strategic foresight, financial acumen, and exceptional leadership skills. You will serve as a mentor, a strategist, and a catalyst for change, working shoulder-to-shoulder with management teams to implement best practices, drive growth initiatives, and ultimately maximize returns for investors. Your success will be measured by the tangible improvements in performance, profitability, and enterprise value across the portfolio. This is a rare opportunity to leverage your extensive industry experience within a dynamic and entrepreneurial private equity environment, making a direct and lasting impact on a diverse set of companies.
Key Responsibilities of Operating Partner, Industrials with a PE Group – Phoenix, AZ
The Operating Partner will engage across the full investment lifecycle, from pre-acquisition diligence to post-acquisition value creation and successful exit. Your responsibilities will be broad and impactful, demanding both strategic thinking and tactical execution.
Pre-Acquisition Diligence
Collaborate closely with the deal team to conduct comprehensive operational due diligence on potential investment opportunities. Assess the target company’s operational capabilities, identify areas for improvement, quantify potential synergies, and validate the investment thesis from an operational perspective.
Value Creation Plan (VCP) Development
Lead the development of detailed 100-day plans and long-term strategic VCPs for newly acquired portfolio companies. These plans will serve as the roadmap for post-close transformation and growth.
Hands-On Portfolio Company Engagement
Act as a trusted advisor and partner to portfolio company leadership. This may involve taking on a board seat, leading specific high-impact projects, or serving in an interim executive capacity (e.g., Interim COO) when necessary to drive critical initiatives.
Operational Excellence Implementation
Champion and implement world-class operational methodologies such as Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other continuous improvement frameworks. Drive enhancements across the entire value chain, including supply chain optimization, strategic sourcing, procurement, inventory management, and logistics.
Commercial and Growth Strategy
Partner with management teams to refine and execute commercial strategies. This includes optimizing pricing strategies, enhancing sales force effectiveness, entering new markets, and launching new products or services to accelerate top-line growth.
Financial Performance and KPI Management
Establish robust key performance indicators (KPIs) and reporting dashboards to monitor operational and financial performance. Work with finance teams to improve budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow management processes.
Talent and Leadership Development
Mentor and coach senior executives within the portfolio. Assist in identifying talent gaps and recruiting top-tier leaders to build high-performing management teams capable of scaling the business.
Capital Projects and Footprint Optimization
Oversee major capital expenditure projects, including facility expansions, new equipment purchases, and technology implementations. Analyze and optimize the company’s manufacturing and distribution footprint.
Exit Preparedness
Play a key role in preparing portfolio companies for a successful exit. This involves ensuring that operational improvements are sustainable, financial reporting is pristine, and the company is positioned optimally to attract buyers or public market investors.
Requirements for the Operating Partner, Industrials with a PE Group – Phoenix, AZ
We are seeking a candidate with a distinguished career and a proven ability to lead and transform industrial businesses. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities within the sector.
Executive Leadership Experience
A minimum of 20 years of progressive experience, including at least 5-10 years in a C-suite role with full P&L responsibility (e.g., CEO, President, COO, or General Manager) within an industrial manufacturing, distribution, or services company.
Private Equity Exposure
Direct experience working within a private equity-backed company is highly preferred. The ideal candidate understands the pace, rigor, and value-creation mindset inherent in a PE environment.
Operational Transformation Expertise
Demonstrated, quantifiable success in leading operational transformations. Deep expertise in Lean, Six Sigma, supply chain management, strategic sourcing, and other continuous improvement methodologies is essential.
Sector Knowledge
Extensive experience and a strong network within the industrials sector. Familiarity with sub-sectors such as aerospace & defense, automotive, building products, specialty chemicals, or industrial technology is a significant plus.
Financial Acumen
Strong financial literacy is required. Must be comfortable analyzing financial statements, building business cases for investments, and understanding the key levers that drive enterprise value. Experience with M&A integration is highly desirable.
Leadership and Influence
Exceptional leadership and interpersonal skills. The ability to build credibility and influence change across all levels of an organization, from the shop floor to the boardroom, is paramount. Must be an effective coach and mentor.
Strategic and Analytical Mindset
A highly analytical and data-driven approach to problem-solving, combined with the ability to think strategically about market trends, competitive positioning, and long-term growth.
Education
An undergraduate degree in Engineering, Business, Finance, or a related field is required. An MBA or other advanced degree is strongly preferred.
Location
Willingness to be based in Phoenix, AZ, and travel regularly to portfolio company sites as needed.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client understands that attracting a leader of this caliber requires a compelling and highly competitive compensation and benefits package. The firm is committed to rewarding performance and aligning incentives for long-term success.
Competitive Compensation
A highly competitive base salary and significant annual performance-based bonus structure tied to both firm and portfolio company performance.
Carried Interest
A substantial opportunity for wealth creation through participation in the firm’s carried interest plan, providing a direct stake in the success of the investments.
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
Premium medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your dependents, along with robust wellness programs.
Retirement Savings
A generous 401(k) plan with a significant company match to support your long-term financial goals.
Executive Development
A dedicated budget for professional development, including executive coaching, industry conferences, and continuing education.
Relocation Support
A comprehensive relocation package is available for the successful candidate and their family.
Generous Paid Time Off
A flexible and generous paid time off policy to ensure a healthy work-life balance.
How to Apply
This is a retained search managed exclusively by JRG Partners. If you are a transformative leader with the experience and drive to excel in this challenging and rewarding role, we encourage you to apply. To be considered, please submit your confidential resume and a compelling cover letter detailing your specific achievements in operational turnarounds and value creation within the industrials sector.
JRG Partners is a leader in connecting exceptional executive talent with premier opportunities in the private equity space. To learn more about our specialized focus and successful placements, we invite you to explore our JRG Partners’ Private Equity Executive Search practice page. We look forward to reviewing your application and discussing this unique opportunity with you.
