Role Overview for Chief Strategy Officer with a Leading Manufacturer – Grand Rapids, MI
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a premier, technology-driven manufacturing firm based in the vibrant industrial hub of Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our client is a market leader, renowned for its commitment to innovation, quality, and sustainable practices.
As they embark on their next chapter of ambitious growth and global expansion, they are seeking a visionary and results-oriented Chief Strategy Officer (CSO) to join their executive leadership team. This is a pivotal role for a strategic thinker who can shape the future of the organization, ensuring its long-term competitive advantage and profitability.
The Chief Strategy Officer will serve as the principal architect of the company’s corporate strategy, acting as a key advisor to the Chief Executive Officer and the Board of Directors. This executive will be responsible for spearheading the strategic planning process, identifying and evaluating new growth opportunities, and driving the execution of critical initiatives across the enterprise.
The ideal candidate will possess a profound understanding of the manufacturing landscape, coupled with exceptional analytical capabilities and a proven track record of translating complex market dynamics into actionable, value-creating strategies.
You will be at the forefront of navigating market disruptions, capitalizing on emerging technologies, and fostering a culture of forward-thinking innovation. This position demands a leader who can not only envision the future but also inspire and mobilize the entire organization to achieve it. You will be instrumental in defining our client’s trajectory for the next decade and beyond, making a tangible impact on their legacy and market position.
Key Responsibilities of Chief Strategy Officer with a Leading Manufacturer – Grand Rapids, MI
The CSO will have a broad and impactful mandate, with responsibilities spanning across the entire strategic lifecycle. Success in this role requires a blend of analytical rigor, creative problem-solving, and influential leadership.
Corporate Strategy Development & Execution
Lead the annual and long-range strategic planning process in collaboration with the executive team. Develop a comprehensive, cohesive corporate strategy that aligns with the company’s mission and financial objectives. Translate strategic priorities into a clear, actionable roadmap with defined initiatives, timelines, and measurable KPIs. Ensure rigorous monitoring of strategic execution and facilitate course corrections as needed.
Market Intelligence & Competitive Analysis
Establish and lead a robust market intelligence function. Continuously monitor and analyze industry trends, macroeconomic factors, technological advancements, and the competitive landscape. Provide the executive team and Board with insightful analysis and actionable recommendations to preempt market shifts and capitalize on emerging opportunities.
Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A) and Strategic Partnerships
Oversee the entire M&A lifecycle, from target identification and strategic rationale development to due diligence, negotiation, and integration planning. Identify and cultivate strategic partnerships, joint ventures, and alliances that accelerate growth, expand market access, or enhance technological capabilities.
Innovation and Business Development
Champion a culture of innovation across the organization. Identify and incubate new business models, product lines, and revenue streams. Evaluate and prioritize opportunities for organic growth, including market entry strategies, geographic expansion, and product portfolio diversification.
Digital Transformation & Technology Strategy
Partner with the CIO/CTO to align technology initiatives with the corporate strategy. Drive digital transformation efforts, leveraging data analytics, automation, and a deep understanding of modern manufacturing paradigms, including the principles of Industry 4.0 and digital transformation, to create a sustainable competitive advantage.
Performance Management & Analytics
Develop and implement a framework for measuring the performance of strategic initiatives. Utilize data-driven insights to assess progress, identify areas for improvement, and ensure accountability across all business units. Report on strategic performance to the CEO, executive team, and Board of Directors.
Stakeholder Communication & Leadership
Act as a key spokesperson for the company’s strategy. Clearly articulate the strategic vision, priorities, and progress to internal and external stakeholders, including employees, investors, and partners. Provide thought leadership and mentorship to develop strategic capabilities throughout the organization.
Strategic Risk Management
In collaboration with the CFO and Chief Risk Officer, identify potential strategic risks to the business. Develop proactive mitigation plans and contingency strategies to ensure the company’s resilience and long-term sustainability.
Requirements for the Chief Strategy Officer with a Leading Manufacturer – Grand Rapids, MI
We are seeking a seasoned executive with a distinguished career in strategic leadership, preferably within a complex, global manufacturing environment. The successful candidate will meet the following qualifications:
Educational Background
An MBA or other advanced degree in Business, Finance, Economics, or a related field from a top-tier institution is strongly preferred. A Bachelor’s degree in an analytical or technical discipline is required.
Executive Experience
A minimum of 15-20 years of progressive professional experience, with at least 7-10 years in a senior leadership role directly responsible for corporate strategy, corporate development, or strategic planning. Experience in management consulting followed by a senior role in a corporate environment is highly desirable.
Industry Expertise
Deep and demonstrable experience within the manufacturing sector is essential. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of supply chain dynamics, operational excellence, product lifecycle management, and the technological shifts impacting the industry.
M&A Track Record
Proven, hands-on experience leading multiple M&A transactions, from initial screening and valuation through to post-merger integration. Must possess strong financial modeling and negotiation skills.
Strategic Acumen
Exceptional ability to think critically and strategically, synthesizing complex information from various sources to develop a clear and compelling vision for the future. A track record of developing and successfully implementing growth strategies is a must.
Leadership & Influence
An inspirational and collaborative leader with outstanding communication and interpersonal skills. Proven ability to influence and align stakeholders at all levels, from the shop floor to the boardroom. Experience building and leading high-performing teams.
Analytical Prowess
Superior analytical and quantitative skills. Must be comfortable with financial analysis, market research, and data-driven decision-making. High proficiency in framing ambiguous problems and developing structured, logical approaches to solve them.
Global Mindset
Experience working in a global organization with an understanding of international markets, cultures, and business practices is highly advantageous.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top-tier talent by offering a highly competitive and comprehensive compensation and benefits package. This includes:
Executive Compensation
A highly competitive base salary complemented by a significant annual performance-based bonus and a long-term incentive plan (e.g., equity, stock options).
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
Premier medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your eligible dependents. Robust wellness programs, including an Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
Retirement Savings
A 401(k) retirement plan with a generous company match and potential for profit-sharing contributions.
Paid Time Off
An executive-level paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick leave, and numerous paid holidays.
Relocation Assistance
A comprehensive relocation package is available for the successful candidate and their family to facilitate a smooth transition to the Grand Rapids area.
Professional Development
A significant budget for ongoing executive education, professional memberships, industry conferences, and leadership development opportunities.
Work Environment
The opportunity to work with a dynamic, forward-thinking leadership team in a collaborative and innovative culture that values integrity, excellence, and respect.
How to Apply
This is a retained search being conducted exclusively by JRG Partners. To be considered for this career-defining opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and strategic accomplishments. All inquiries and applications will be handled with the utmost confidentiality.
JRG Partners is a leader in executive search for the industrial and manufacturing sectors. We connect exceptional leaders with transformative opportunities. To learn more about our expertise in this space, we invite you to visit our Industrial & Manufacturing practice area page. We look forward to reviewing your application and discussing how you can shape the future of this industry leader.
