Role Overview for EVP, Commercial Operations with an Industrial Equipment Co. – Milwaukee, WI
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a premier, market-leading industrial equipment company in their search for an Executive Vice President (EVP) of Commercial Operations. Based in the vibrant industrial hub of Milwaukee, WI, this is a career-defining opportunity for a visionary and results-driven leader to shape the future of a well-established and innovative organization.
As a pivotal member of the executive leadership team, the EVP of Commercial Operations will report directly to the Chief Executive Officer and will be entrusted with the ultimate responsibility for the company’s entire commercial strategy and its successful execution. This role is the central engine for revenue generation, customer engagement, and market expansion.
The ideal candidate is a strategic architect with a deep understanding of complex B2B sales cycles, brand positioning, and world-class customer service within the heavy equipment or manufacturing sectors. You will be responsible for orchestrating the synergy between the sales, marketing, business development, and customer service departments, transforming them into a unified, high-performance commercial powerhouse. Your leadership will directly impact the company’s bottom line, drive sustainable growth, and solidify its position as an industry leader.
This executive will not only manage current operations but will also be a forward-thinking leader, identifying and capitalizing on emerging market trends, technological advancements, and new business opportunities. You will foster a culture of excellence, accountability, and continuous improvement, mentoring a large team of dedicated professionals and developing the next generation of commercial leaders within the organization. This is more than a job; it is a chance to leave a lasting legacy on a respected company and the industry it serves.
Key Responsibilities of EVP, Commercial Operations with an Industrial Equipment Co. – Milwaukee, WI
Strategic Commercial Leadership
Develop, articulate, and execute a comprehensive, long-range commercial strategy that aligns with the company’s overall business objectives. This includes market segmentation, competitive analysis, channel strategy, and product positioning to drive aggressive and sustainable revenue growth.
P&L Management and Financial Acumen
Assume full P&L responsibility for the entire commercial division. You will be tasked with developing annual budgets, revenue forecasts, and managing expenses to achieve profitability targets. Your financial stewardship will be critical to ensuring the commercial engine runs efficiently and effectively.
Sales Organization Leadership
Lead, mentor, and inspire a national or global sales organization. This includes overseeing sales operations, key account management, and channel partner relationships. You will be responsible for setting ambitious sales targets, defining sales processes, and implementing performance metrics to build a culture of success and accountability.
Marketing and Brand Strategy
Direct the overarching marketing strategy to enhance brand equity, generate qualified leads, and support sales efforts. This involves overseeing all aspects of marketing, including digital marketing, product marketing, corporate communications, public relations, and trade show presence, ensuring a consistent and powerful brand message.
Customer Experience and Service Excellence
Champion a customer-centric culture throughout the organization. Oversee the customer service and after-sales support functions to ensure an exceptional customer experience, fostering loyalty, driving repeat business, and creating brand advocates.
Business Development and Market Expansion
Identify, evaluate, and pursue new market opportunities, strategic partnerships, and potential acquisitions. Analyze market trends and competitor activities to proactively position the company for future growth, both domestically and internationally.
Team Development and Mentorship
Recruit, train, and develop a high-performing commercial leadership team. Foster a collaborative and empowering work environment that attracts and retains top talent. Provide ongoing coaching and mentorship to cultivate skills and build a robust succession pipeline.
Executive Collaboration
Serve as a key member of the senior executive team, collaborating closely with the CEO, COO, CFO, and other leaders on strategic planning, operational efficiency, and corporate governance. Provide insightful reports and presentations on commercial performance to the executive team and the Board of Directors.
Technology and Process Optimization
Drive the adoption and optimization of commercial technologies, including CRM systems (like Salesforce), marketing automation platforms, and data analytics tools. Leverage data-driven insights to refine strategies, improve decision-making, and increase operational efficiency.
Channel and Distribution Management
Develop and manage a multi-tiered channel strategy, including direct sales, distributors, and strategic partners. Nurture strong relationships with key partners to ensure alignment and maximize market penetration and sales effectiveness.
Requirements for the EVP, Commercial Operations with an Industrial Equipment Co. – Milwaukee, WI
Educational Background
A Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Engineering, or a related field is required. An MBA or other advanced degree is highly preferred, providing a strong foundation in strategic management and financial principles.
Executive Leadership Experience
A minimum of 15-20 years of progressive leadership experience, with at least 7-10 years in a senior commercial leadership role (e.g., VP of Sales & Marketing, Chief Commercial Officer) managing large, multi-disciplinary teams.
Industry Expertise
Demonstrable experience within the industrial equipment, heavy machinery, manufacturing, or a closely related B2B industry is essential. The candidate must understand the nuances of long sales cycles, capital equipment purchasing, and distributor networks. A deep understanding of the trends shaping the global industrial equipment market is critical.
Proven Track Record of Growth
A quantifiable history of developing and executing strategies that resulted in significant revenue growth, increased market share, and enhanced profitability. Must be able to speak to specific achievements and metrics.
Financial and Operational Acumen
Extensive experience with P&L management, budgeting, forecasting, and strategic financial planning. Must possess a strong analytical mindset and be adept at using data to drive commercial decisions.
Inspirational Leadership
Exceptional leadership and team-building skills with the ability to motivate, mentor, and lead a diverse team of professionals. A proven ability to foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and high performance.
Communication and Interpersonal Skills
Superior communication, presentation, and negotiation skills. The ability to articulate a clear and compelling vision to employees, customers, partners, and the Board of Directors is paramount.
Strategic and Innovative Thinker
Must be a visionary leader who can anticipate future market trends and position the company to capitalize on them. A creative problem-solver who is not afraid to challenge the status quo.
Location and Travel
The ability to work from the corporate headquarters in Milwaukee, WI is required. The role will also require a willingness to travel domestically and internationally (approximately 25-40%) to meet with clients, partners, and regional teams.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client offers a highly competitive and comprehensive executive compensation and benefits package designed to attract and retain a leader of this caliber. 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 and Wellness
Premium health, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your eligible dependents, featuring low deductibles and a broad network of providers. Includes access to wellness programs and health savings accounts (HSA).
Retirement Savings
A robust 401(k) retirement plan with a generous company match to help you secure your financial future.
Paid Time Off
An executive-level paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick leave, and numerous paid holidays, promoting a healthy work-life balance.
Relocation Assistance
A comprehensive, executive-level relocation package is available for the successful candidate and their family.
Professional Development
A commitment to your ongoing professional growth with support for executive coaching, industry conferences, and continuing education.
Additional Perks
Includes a company car allowance, life insurance, short-term and long-term disability insurance, and other executive-level perquisites.
How to Apply
This is an exclusive search being conducted by JRG Partners. To be considered for this pivotal leadership role, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and qualifications. We encourage you to apply promptly as we are actively reviewing candidates. JRG Partners is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.
To apply and learn more about our specialized recruitment services in this sector, please visit our practice area page: Learn more about our expertise in the industrial sector and apply today.
