Role Overview for Chief Executive Officer – Family-Owned Distribution Company (Succession) | Boca Raton, FL
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a distinguished, multi-generational family-owned distribution company in their search for a successor Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Based in the vibrant community of Boca Raton, Florida, our client has built an impeccable reputation over several decades for its commitment to quality, customer service, and integrity. This is a rare and compelling opportunity for a visionary executive to step into a leadership role designed for a seamless succession, honoring a rich legacy while steering the company towards a new era of growth, innovation, and market leadership.
The incoming CEO will be a strategic leader, a cultural steward, and a business architect. You will work closely with the current ownership and leadership team during a transitional period to deeply understand the company’s history, values, operations, and key relationships. Your primary mandate will be to build upon a strong foundation, driving strategic initiatives that enhance operational efficiency, expand market share, and ensure long-term, sustainable profitability. This role is ideal for a seasoned executive with a profound respect for the unique dynamics of a family-owned enterprise, coupled with the modern business acumen required to navigate a competitive landscape. You will be empowered to refine the company’s vision, inspire a dedicated team, and solidify its position as a leader in the distribution industry for generations to come. This is more than a job; it is an opportunity to become an integral part of a family’s legacy and a community’s success story.
Key Responsibilities of Chief Executive Officer – Family-Owned Distribution Company (Succession) | Boca Raton, FL
The Chief Executive Officer will assume full responsibility for the company’s strategic direction, operational execution, and financial performance. You will be accountable to the Board of Directors and family stakeholders, providing transparent leadership and driving results across all facets of the organization.
Strategic Vision & Leadership:
- In collaboration with the Board and family ownership, develop, articulate, and execute a comprehensive long-term strategic plan that drives profitable growth and enhances enterprise value.
- Continuously assess the competitive landscape, market trends, and technological advancements to identify and capitalize on new opportunities for expansion and innovation.
- Champion a culture of excellence, accountability, and continuous improvement throughout the organization, ensuring strategic goals are effectively communicated and executed at all levels.
- Serve as the primary public representative of the company, fostering positive relationships with clients, suppliers, industry partners, and the local community.
Financial & P&L Management:
- Assume full P&L responsibility, directing all financial operations to maximize revenue and profitability while managing costs and operational risks.
- Lead the annual budgeting, financial forecasting, and capital allocation processes to support strategic objectives and ensure the company’s long-term financial health.
- Provide insightful financial analysis and reporting to the Board, offering clear visibility into performance, trends, and strategic investment decisions.
- Ensure the implementation of robust financial controls and governance practices to maintain fiscal integrity and compliance.
Operational Excellence & Supply Chain Optimization:
- Oversee all aspects of the company’s distribution and supply chain operations, including procurement, inventory management, warehousing, logistics, and fulfillment.
- Drive initiatives to optimize operational efficiency, reduce costs, improve service levels, and enhance scalability through process improvements and technology adoption.
- Champion a safety-first culture across all facilities and operations, ensuring compliance with all regulatory standards.
Business Development & Stakeholder Relations:
- Lead the company’s business development, sales, and marketing efforts to expand the customer base, deepen existing relationships, and enter new markets.
- Act as the principal liaison to the family ownership, fostering open communication, trust, and alignment on key strategic and governance matters. Successfully navigating the complexities of family business succession is a critical component of this role.
- Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with key customers, suppliers, and strategic partners to drive mutual growth and success.
Team Leadership & Culture Development:
- Attract, retain, and develop a high-performing senior leadership team, providing mentorship, guidance, and professional growth opportunities.
- Preserve and enhance the company’s unique, family-oriented culture while instilling a mindset of performance, innovation, and accountability.
- Champion employee engagement and foster a collaborative, inclusive, and positive work environment that makes the company an employer of choice.
Requirements for the Chief Executive Officer – Family-Owned Distribution Company (Succession) | Boca Raton, FL
The ideal candidate is a proven executive with a blend of strategic foresight, operational expertise, and exceptional interpersonal skills. You possess a deep understanding of the distribution industry and a genuine appreciation for the values that underpin a successful family-owned business.
Executive Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive leadership experience, with at least 5-7 years in a President, COO, GM, or CEO role with full P&L responsibility for an organization of significant scale (ideally $75M+ in annual revenue).
Industry Expertise
Demonstrable experience within the distribution, wholesale, logistics, or a closely related industry is required. Familiarity with sectors such as industrial goods, consumer packaged goods (CPG), or building materials is highly advantageous.
Educational Background
A Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Supply Chain Management, or a related field is required. An MBA or other advanced degree is strongly preferred.
Family Business Acumen
Prior experience working in or closely with a family-owned or privately-held business is highly desirable. Must possess the emotional intelligence and diplomacy to navigate family dynamics and stakeholder interests effectively.
Proven Track Record
A documented history of driving revenue growth, improving profitability, and leading successful strategic initiatives. Experience with M&A, technology implementation, or significant operational turnarounds is a plus.
Leadership Qualities
An inspirational and servant-leader mindset. Must be an exceptional communicator, a consensus-builder, and a decisive leader who can motivate teams and foster a culture of trust and respect.
Financial Acumen
Strong command of financial statements, budgeting, capital management, and key performance indicators (KPIs).
Location
Willingness to be based full-time in the Boca Raton, FL area and become an active member of the local business community.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining a world-class leader and offers a comprehensive and highly competitive compensation and benefits package, including:
Executive Compensation
A competitive base salary complemented by a significant performance-based annual bonus program.
Long-Term Incentive Plan
A meaningful long-term incentive plan (e.g., equity, phantom stock, or similar) designed to reward the creation of sustainable, long-term value.
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
Premium medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your dependents.
Retirement Savings
A robust 401(k) plan with a generous company matching contribution.
Paid Time Off
Generous paid time off (PTO), sick leave, and paid company holidays to support work-life balance.
Relocation Assistance
A comprehensive relocation package is available for the selected candidate and their family.
Professional Development
Support for ongoing executive education, industry conferences, and professional memberships.
Legacy Opportunity
The unique and professionally fulfilling opportunity to lead a respected company into its next chapter and make a lasting impact.
How to Apply
This is a confidential, retained search conducted by JRG Partners. If you are a visionary leader with the experience and character to guide a successful family business to new heights, we invite you to apply. To be considered for this exceptional opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your qualifications and interest in the role.
JRG Partners is a leader in identifying and placing top executive talent in the supply chain and logistics sectors. To learn more about our expertise in this area, please visit our CEO & President Executive Search practice page. We look forward to reviewing your application. All inquiries and applications will be handled with the strictest confidence.
