Chief Operating Officer with an Industrial Equipment Co. – Milwaukee, WI

Role Overview for Chief Operating Officer with an Industrial Equipment Co. – Milwaukee, WI

JRG Partners, a premier executive search firm, is proud to partner with a leading and highly respected industrial equipment company based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Our client has a rich history of innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction, positioning them as a dominant force in their market. We are seeking a transformative and results-driven Chief Operating Officer (COO) to join their executive leadership team. This is a pivotal role for a strategic leader who will be instrumental in scaling operations, driving efficiency, and shaping the future trajectory of the company.

The Chief Operating Officer will serve as the right hand to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), responsible for the day-to-day management and operational integrity of the entire organization. You will be tasked with translating the company’s strategic vision into actionable operational plans, ensuring that all departments, from manufacturing and supply chain to customer service and quality assurance, are aligned and performing at their peak. This role requires a unique blend of strategic foresight, financial acumen, and hands-on operational expertise. The ideal candidate is a visionary leader with a proven track record of optimizing complex operations within the industrial manufacturing sector. You will be expected to foster a culture of continuous improvement, accountability, and collaboration, mentoring a high-performing team to achieve ambitious business objectives. This is a career-defining opportunity to make a significant impact on a thriving organization, drive substantial growth, and cement its legacy as an industry leader for years to come.

Your leadership will directly influence the company’s profitability, market position, and long-term sustainability. You will oversee the implementation of advanced technologies, streamline processes to reduce costs and enhance quality, and ensure the entire operational infrastructure is robust, scalable, and prepared for future challenges and opportunities. Success in this role means not just managing the present but actively building the future of the company’s operational capabilities.

Key Responsibilities of Chief Operating Officer with an Industrial Equipment Co. – Milwaukee, WI

Strategic Leadership and Execution

Collaborate directly with the CEO and the executive team to develop and implement the company’s long-term strategic plan. Translate high-level strategy into tangible operational goals, initiatives, and key performance indicators (KPIs) across all departments. Ensure operational activities and resource allocation are consistently aligned with the company’s mission and strategic priorities.

Operational Excellence and Process Improvement

Direct and oversee all daily operations, including manufacturing, production planning, supply chain management, logistics, procurement, and quality control. Champion a culture of continuous improvement by implementing methodologies such as Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and Total Quality Management to drive efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance product quality.

Financial Management and P&L Oversight

Assume full P&L responsibility for the company’s operations. Develop and manage annual operating budgets, capital expenditure plans, and financial forecasts. Rigorously analyze operational and financial data to identify trends, opportunities for cost reduction, and areas for investment to improve profitability and achieve financial targets.

Team Leadership and Talent Development

Lead, mentor, and develop a high-caliber operational leadership team. Foster a positive, inclusive, and performance-driven culture that encourages innovation, accountability, and professional growth. Implement effective performance management systems and succession planning to build a robust talent pipeline.

Supply Chain and Manufacturing Optimization

Spearhead the optimization of the end-to-end supply chain. Enhance supplier relationships, negotiate key contracts, and improve inventory management systems to ensure material availability while minimizing carrying costs. Oversee manufacturing processes to maximize productivity, ensure on-time delivery, and maintain the highest safety standards.

Technology and Systems Integration

Drive the evaluation and implementation of new technologies, including automation, robotics, and advanced ERP systems, to modernize operations and create a competitive advantage. Ensure seamless integration of systems and processes to improve data visibility, decision-making, and overall operational agility.

Quality Assurance and Customer Satisfaction

Uphold the company’s commitment to excellence by overseeing a stringent quality assurance program. Ensure all products consistently meet or exceed industry standards and customer expectations. Work closely with sales and customer service teams to address feedback and continuously improve the customer experience.

Risk Management and Regulatory Compliance

Develop and implement comprehensive risk management policies and procedures. Ensure all operations adhere to local, state, and federal regulations, as well as industry-specific environmental, health, and safety (EHS) standards. Proactively identify and mitigate operational risks to protect the company’s assets and reputation.

Requirements for the Chief Operating Officer with an Industrial Equipment Co. – Milwaukee, WI

Educational Background

A Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business Administration, Operations Management, or a related field is required. An MBA or other advanced degree is strongly preferred.

Executive Experience

A minimum of 15 years of progressive leadership experience in an operational capacity, with at least 5-7 years in a senior executive role (e.g., COO, VP of Operations, General Manager) with full P&L responsibility.

Industry Expertise

Demonstrable experience within the industrial equipment, heavy machinery, automotive, or a related complex manufacturing industry is essential. Must have a deep understanding of the unique challenges and dynamics of this sector.

Operational Acumen

Extensive, hands-on experience in managing all facets of a manufacturing operation, including supply chain, logistics, production, quality, and engineering. Proven expertise in implementing and sustaining operational excellence initiatives. A deep understanding of Lean manufacturing principles is a critical requirement for this role.

Strategic Vision

Proven ability to think strategically, anticipate future trends and consequences, and create inclusive and competitive operational plans. Experience scaling a business for significant growth.

Financial Proficiency

Strong financial literacy with extensive experience in budgeting, forecasting, capital planning, and financial analysis. Must have a track record of successfully managing a large and complex P&L.

Leadership Skills

Exceptional leadership and people management skills. A proven ability to inspire, motivate, and develop large, multi-disciplinary teams. Must be an effective communicator, capable of articulating a clear vision and building consensus at all levels of the organization.

Technical Skills

Proficiency with modern ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle), manufacturing execution systems (MES), and data analytics tools. Must be technologically savvy and forward-thinking regarding the adoption of new operational technologies.

Benefits & Perks Offered

Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top-tier talent and offers a highly competitive and comprehensive compensation and benefits package, which includes:

Executive Compensation

A lucrative base salary complemented by a significant performance-based annual bonus and a long-term incentive plan (equity/phantom stock).

Comprehensive Health and Wellness

Premium medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your dependents, along with a robust wellness program.

Retirement Savings

A 401(k) plan with a generous company match to help you plan for your future.

Paid Time Off

A generous paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick days, and paid company holidays.

Relocation Assistance

A comprehensive relocation package is available for the right candidate and their family to move to the vibrant Milwaukee area.

Professional Development

A strong commitment to your continued growth, with support for executive coaching, industry conferences, and further education.

Additional Perks

Company vehicle allowance, life insurance, disability coverage, and other executive-level benefits.

How to Apply

JRG Partners is exclusively managing this confidential search. To be considered for this exceptional Chief Operating Officer opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and qualifications. We are looking for leaders who are ready to take on a challenge and drive meaningful change. If you are a strategic operational executive with a passion for excellence and a track record of success in the industrial equipment sector, we encourage you to apply.

For more information or to submit your application, please visit the careers section on our website or apply directly through our portal. You can learn more about our expertise in this sector by visiting JRG Partners’ Industrial & Manufacturing Executive Search practice. All inquiries and applications will be handled with the strictest confidence. Our client is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Job Category: Executive Management

Job Type: Full Time

Job Location: Milwaukee, WI

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Jeremy Gleason

Chief Operating Officer with an Industrial Equipment Co. – Milwaukee, WI

Chief Operating Officer With An Industrial Equipment Co. Milwaukee WI

Role Overview for Chief Operating Officer with an Industrial Equipment Co. – Milwaukee, WI

JRG Partners is proud to partner with a premier industrial equipment company in their search for a dynamic and visionary Chief Operating Officer (COO). Based in the industrial heartland of Milwaukee, WI, this is a career-defining opportunity to join a well-established and forward-thinking organization at a pivotal moment of growth. As the COO, you will be the operational cornerstone of the executive team, reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO). You will be entrusted with the company’s entire operational apparatus, translating the CEO’s strategic vision into tangible, efficient, and profitable execution.

This role is not merely about managing day-to-day activities; it is about transformative leadership. You will be the architect of operational excellence, responsible for optimizing processes, scaling capabilities, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement and accountability across all departments. The ideal candidate is a seasoned operational leader with a deep understanding of the industrial equipment or heavy manufacturing sector.

You possess a rare blend of strategic foresight, financial acumen, and hands-on operational expertise. You are a leader who inspires, a manager who empowers, and a strategist who executes with precision. In this critical position, you will have a direct and lasting impact on the company’s trajectory, ensuring its legacy of quality and innovation continues for years to come while driving it towards new heights of market leadership and financial success.

Success in this role will be measured by your ability to enhance operational efficiency, improve profitability, manage complex supply chains, and lead a high-performing team dedicated to safety, quality, and customer satisfaction. You will be a key voice in the C-suite, shaping the company’s future and ensuring that its operational capabilities are a primary competitive advantage in a demanding global marketplace.

Key Responsibilities of Chief Operating Officer with an Industrial Equipment Co. – Milwaukee, WI

Strategic Execution

Collaborate with the CEO and executive team to develop and implement the company’s strategic plan, ensuring that operational goals and initiatives are aligned with long-term business objectives.

Operational Leadership

Direct and oversee all daily operations of the company, including manufacturing, production planning, supply chain management, procurement, logistics, quality assurance, and customer service.

Process Optimization

Champion a culture of continuous improvement by implementing lean manufacturing principles, Six Sigma methodologies, and other best practices to enhance productivity, reduce costs, and improve quality.

Financial Management

Develop and manage the annual operating budget, ensuring all departments operate within financial targets. Drive P&L responsibility for all operational units, focusing on margin improvement and cost control.

Performance Metrics

Establish, monitor, and analyze key performance indicators (KPIs) for all operational functions. Utilize data-driven insights to make informed decisions, identify areas for improvement, and report on performance to the CEO and Board of Directors.

Supply Chain Mastery

Oversee the end-to-end supply chain, from raw material sourcing to final product delivery. Develop and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers and vendors to ensure reliability, quality, and cost-effectiveness.

Team Development & Leadership

Lead, mentor, and develop a high-caliber operational management team. Foster a collaborative, results-oriented, and accountable work environment that attracts and retains top talent.

Capital Projects & Expansion

Oversee the planning and execution of capital expenditure projects, including facility expansions, new equipment acquisition, and technology upgrades to support business growth.

Quality & Safety Compliance

Uphold the highest standards of product quality and workplace safety. Ensure all operations comply with local, state, and federal regulations, as well as industry-specific standards (e.g., ISO).

Technology & Innovation

Drive the adoption of new technologies, including ERP systems, automation, and data analytics tools, to streamline operations and create a competitive advantage.

Customer Focus

Work closely with the sales and marketing teams to ensure that operational capabilities can meet and exceed customer expectations for product quality, on-time delivery, and service.

Risk Management

Identify and mitigate operational risks, including supply chain disruptions, production bottlenecks, and regulatory changes, to ensure business continuity.

Requirements for the Chief Operating Officer with an Industrial Equipment Co. – Milwaukee, WI

We are seeking a candidate who not only meets the technical requirements of the role but also embodies the leadership qualities necessary to inspire a large and diverse organization. The following qualifications are essential:

Executive Experience

A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in operations management, with at least 5 years in a senior executive leadership role (e.g., COO, VP of Operations, General Manager) with full P&L responsibility.

Industry Expertise

Demonstrable experience within the industrial equipment, heavy machinery, automotive, or a related complex manufacturing environment is mandatory.

Educational Background

A Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business Administration, Operations Management, or a related field is required. An MBA or other advanced degree is highly preferred.

Proven Track Record

A documented history of successfully leading operational transformations, driving significant improvements in efficiency, cost, quality, and safety.

Financial Acumen

Strong command of financial statements, budgeting, forecasting, and capital allocation. Experience managing multi-million dollar budgets is essential.

Leadership Skills

Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills with the ability to influence and build consensus at all levels of the organization, from the shop floor to the boardroom.

Strategic Thinking

Ability to think strategically and holistically, while also being able to dive into the details and drive tactical execution.

Technical Proficiency

Solid working knowledge of modern manufacturing technologies, ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle), and data analysis tools.

Location

Must be willing to be based full-time at the company headquarters in Milwaukee, WI. Relocation assistance is available for the right candidate.

Benefits & Perks Offered

Our client offers a compensation and benefits package that is commensurate with the executive level of this role and designed to attract and retain the highest caliber of talent. The comprehensive package includes:

Highly competitive base salary
Lucrative annual performance-based executive bonus plan
Significant long-term incentive plan (Equity/Stock Options)
Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance plans
Robust 401(k) retirement plan with a generous company match
Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) and company holidays
Executive-level professional development and coaching opportunities
Relocation assistance package for qualifying candidates
The opportunity to make a significant impact on a growing and respected industry leader

How to Apply

JRG Partners is exclusively managing the search for this pivotal Chief Operating Officer position. If you are a visionary operational leader with the experience and drive to lead this organization into its next chapter of success, we encourage you to apply.

To be considered for this opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and leadership philosophy. All applications will be treated with the strictest confidence. For more information about our expertise in this sector, please visit the JRG Partners’ Industrial & Manufacturing practice page.

Our client is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Job Category: Executive

Job Type: Full Time

Job Location: Milwaukee, WI