JRG Partners, a premier executive search firm, has been exclusively retained to lead the search for a dynamic and results-driven Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for a high-growth, private equity-backed industrial manufacturing company. This is a unique opportunity for a transformative leader to take the helm of a well-established business and drive it to its next level of growth, profitability, and market leadership, culminating in a successful exit for its private equity sponsors.
The ideal candidate is a seasoned executive with a proven track record of value creation within the manufacturing sector, preferably under private equity ownership. You are a strategic visionary with a hands-on, operational mindset, capable of inspiring a high-performance culture and executing on an aggressive growth plan that includes both organic initiatives and strategic acquisitions.
Role Overview for CEO – PE-Backed Industrial Manufacturer
As the CEO, you will be granted full P&L responsibility and strategic control of the organization. Reporting directly to the Board of Directors, you will be the primary architect of the company’s future. Your mission will be to partner with the private equity sponsor to refine and execute a multi-faceted growth strategy focused on operational excellence, commercial expansion, and strategic M&A. You will be the face of the company to its employees, customers, suppliers, and investors, embodying a culture of accountability, innovation, and relentless improvement. This role requires a leader who can balance long-term strategic planning with the day-to-day tactical execution needed to meet ambitious quarterly and annual targets. Success in this position is defined by the ability to significantly increase EBITDA, enhance enterprise value, and ultimately deliver a premium return for all stakeholders upon exit.
Key Responsibilities of CEO – PE-Backed Industrial Manufacturer
Strategic Leadership and Execution
In collaboration with the Board and PE sponsor, develop and execute a comprehensive strategic value creation plan that aligns with the investment thesis. Translate strategy into actionable goals for performance and growth, ensuring clear communication and buy-in across the organization.
P&L Management and Financial Performance
Assume full responsibility for the company’s financial health and performance. Drive top-line revenue growth while rigorously managing costs to expand margins and accelerate EBITDA growth. Implement and monitor robust KPIs and financial controls to ensure predictable and profitable results.
Operational Excellence and Continuous Improvement
Champion a culture of operational excellence throughout the manufacturing facilities. Drive initiatives in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and supply chain optimization to improve efficiency, quality, safety, and productivity. Leverage technology and automation (Industry 4.0) to create a sustainable competitive advantage.
Commercial and Sales Leadership
Lead the company’s commercial strategy to drive organic growth. Oversee the sales, marketing, and business development functions to expand market share, penetrate new verticals, and strengthen key customer relationships. Foster a customer-centric culture that prioritizes service and innovation.
Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A) Strategy
Actively identify, evaluate, and execute strategic bolt-on acquisitions that align with the company’s growth objectives. Lead the due diligence process and oversee the successful integration of acquired businesses to realize synergies and accelerate value creation.
Team Building and Talent Management
Recruit, develop, and retain a world-class senior leadership team. Foster a dynamic, accountable, and collaborative corporate culture. Implement effective talent management and succession planning processes to build a deep bench of future leaders.
Board and Investor Relations
Serve as the primary point of contact with the Board of Directors and the private equity sponsor. Provide regular, transparent, and insightful reporting on company performance, strategic initiatives, and market dynamics. Build a strong, trust-based partnership with investors.
Capital Allocation and Investment
Make disciplined and strategic decisions regarding capital expenditures, working capital management, and other investments. Ensure all capital is deployed to generate the highest possible return and support the long-term growth strategy.
Requirements for the CEO – PE-Backed Industrial Manufacturer
Executive Leadership Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive leadership experience, with a proven track record as a CEO, President, or General Manager holding full P&L responsibility for a business of significant scale (e.g., $50M – $500M+ in revenue) within the industrial manufacturing sector.
Private Equity Experience
Prior experience leading a PE-backed portfolio company is strongly preferred. Must possess a deep understanding of the PE value creation playbook, including the pace, metrics, and reporting requirements inherent in such an environment.
Demonstrated Growth and Value Creation
Quantifiable success in driving significant top-line and bottom-line (EBITDA) growth. Must be able to articulate specific strategies and actions taken to create substantial shareholder value in previous roles.
M&A Expertise
Hands-on experience in the full lifecycle of M&A, including target identification, due diligence, negotiation, and post-merger integration.
Operational and Commercial Acumen
Deep expertise in modern manufacturing methodologies and supply chain management combined with a strong commercial instinct and experience leading sales and marketing functions.
Financial Sophistication
A strong command of financial statements, cash flow management, and key performance metrics. Must be highly analytical and data-driven in decision-making.
Inspirational Leadership Style
Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills. A ‘player-coach’ mentality with the ability to be both a strategic thinker and a hands-on operator. The presence to inspire confidence and build consensus among all stakeholders.
Education
A Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Engineering, or a related field is required. An MBA or other advanced degree is highly desirable.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client offers a highly competitive and compelling compensation package designed to attract and retain a top-tier executive. The package includes:
- A competitive and attractive base salary.
- A significant annual performance-based bonus tied to clear financial and strategic objectives.
- A substantial Long-Term Incentive Plan (LTIP) / equity ownership stake, providing the opportunity for a life-changing capital event upon a successful exit.
- Comprehensive executive benefits package, including premium health, dental, and vision insurance for you and your family.
- A robust 401(k) retirement plan with a generous company match.
- Executive-level perquisites, which may include a car allowance, club memberships, and financial planning services.
- Full relocation assistance will be provided for the successful candidate and their family, if required.
How to Apply
This retained search is being exclusively managed by the JRG Partners’ Private Equity executive search team. We are committed to a confidential, transparent, and respectful recruitment process.
If you are a proven leader with the experience and drive to lead this company through its next phase of transformational growth, we encourage you to submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and interest in the role. All inquiries and applications will be held in the strictest confidence. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
