Role Overview for Operating Partner, Consumer with a Large Private Equity Fund – New York, NY
JRG Partners is proud to represent a premier, large-cap private equity fund in their search for a highly accomplished Operating Partner with deep expertise in the consumer sector. Based in their flagship New York office, this is a pivotal role for a seasoned executive who has a demonstrable track record of driving transformational growth and operational excellence.
The Operating Partner will act as a strategic force multiplier, working hand-in-hand with both the investment team and the leadership of portfolio companies to unlock and maximize value. This individual will be a key pillar of the firm’s value creation strategy, translating investment theses into tangible operational results.
The consumer landscape is undergoing unprecedented change, driven by evolving consumer behaviors, digital disruption, and supply chain complexities. Our client is a forward-thinking fund that seeks to not only navigate these challenges but to capitalize on them by partnering with best-in-class management teams. The Operating Partner will be at the forefront of this effort, bringing a potent combination of C-suite leadership experience, strategic foresight, and hands-on operational know-how.
This role is not about consulting from the sidelines; it is about rolling up your sleeves and embedding yourself within portfolio companies to effect real, sustainable change. You will serve as a trusted advisor, a mentor to CEOs, and a board-level strategist, responsible for driving initiatives that enhance revenue, improve profitability, and solidify market leadership. The ideal candidate is a former CEO, COO, or President from a leading consumer products, retail, or e-commerce business who is passionate about building great companies and thrives in a dynamic, results-oriented environment.
Key Responsibilities of Operating Partner, Consumer with a Large Private Equity Fund – New York, NY
The Operating Partner’s responsibilities are broad and deeply impactful, spanning the entire investment lifecycle from pre-acquisition diligence to successful exit. Success in this role requires a fluid ability to switch between high-level strategy and granular execution.
Investment Diligence & Thesis Development
Partner with the investment team during late-stage due diligence to provide deep operational and commercial insights. Assess the capabilities of target company management teams, evaluate operational infrastructure, identify key risks, and validate the potential for performance improvement and growth. Play a critical role in shaping the investment thesis and the value creation plan.
Post-Acquisition Strategy & 100-Day Plan
Lead the development and implementation of comprehensive 100-day plans for new portfolio companies. Work with management to prioritize key initiatives, establish critical KPIs, and build a roadmap for long-term success that aligns with the investment thesis.
Portfolio Company Leadership & Support
Act as a primary resource and mentor for portfolio company C-suite executives. Provide guidance on strategic planning, organizational design, talent development, and operational best practices. Foster a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and data-driven decision-making.
Operational Transformation Initiatives
Identify, scope, and lead high-impact operational improvement projects. This may include supply chain optimization, manufacturing efficiency, pricing strategy, go-to-market acceleration, digital transformation, marketing effectiveness, and post-merger integration for bolt-on acquisitions. The goal is to drive significant enterprise value through tangible performance enhancements.
Board-Level Governance
Serve on the Board of Directors for multiple portfolio companies, providing strategic oversight and ensuring alignment between the management team and the private equity firm’s objectives. Prepare and present regular performance reviews to the fund’s investment committee.
Growth & Commercial Excellence
Collaborate with management teams to identify and execute on organic and inorganic growth opportunities. This includes new product development, market expansion, channel strategy, and identifying potential acquisition targets that are synergistic with the existing portfolio.
Talent & Human Capital
Assist portfolio companies in recruiting, developing, and retaining top-tier executive talent. Help build high-performing teams capable of executing against aggressive growth plans.
Exit Strategy & Preparation
As a portfolio company matures, work with the investment team and management to prepare the business for a successful exit, whether through a strategic sale, secondary buyout, or IPO. Ensure the company’s story, financials, and operations are optimized to command maximum value.
Requirements for the Operating Partner, Consumer with a Large Private Equity Fund – New York, NY
We are seeking a candidate with a rare blend of executive leadership, operational expertise, and financial acumen. The qualifications for this demanding role are rigorous and reflect the high-impact nature of the position.
Executive Experience
A minimum of 20 years of professional experience, including a significant tenure as a C-level executive (CEO, COO, President) within a reputable consumer-facing business (e.g., consumer packaged goods, retail, e-commerce, direct-to-consumer).
Proven Track Record
Demonstrable history of leading successful business transformations, turnarounds, or periods of hyper-growth. Must be able to provide specific examples of driving significant improvements in revenue, EBITDA, and operational efficiency.
Private Equity Exposure
Prior experience working in or with a private equity-backed company is strongly preferred. The candidate must understand the pace, rigor, and value creation mindset inherent in a PE environment.
Functional Depth
Deep, hands-on expertise in several key operational areas such as supply chain management, sales and marketing, digital strategy, manufacturing, or M&A integration.
Financial Acumen
Strong command of financial statements and key business metrics. Must be able to dissect a P&L and balance sheet to identify drivers of performance and opportunities for improvement. While not an investor role, a solid understanding of investment principles is essential.
Leadership & Influence
Exceptional leadership and interpersonal skills. The ability to build credibility and influence C-suite executives and board members is paramount. Must be a collaborative partner who can lead through influence rather than direct authority.
Strategic & Analytical Mindset
Superior analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to quickly assess complex situations, synthesize information, and develop clear, actionable plans.
Education
An MBA or other advanced degree from a top-tier institution is highly preferred.
Location & Travel
Must be based in or willing to relocate to the New York metropolitan area. Significant travel to portfolio company locations is expected.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client offers a highly competitive and compelling compensation and benefits package designed to attract and retain top-tier talent. This reflects the seniority and impact of the Operating Partner role.
Competitive Base Salary
A substantial base salary commensurate with executive-level experience.
Performance-Based Bonus
A significant annual bonus tied to both firm and individual performance metrics.
Carried Interest
The opportunity for meaningful wealth creation through participation in the fund’s carried interest, directly aligning your success with the success of the investments.
Comprehensive Health Coverage
Premium medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your dependents.
Retirement Savings
A robust 401(k) plan with a generous company match.
Executive Wellness
Programs and resources dedicated to supporting the health and well-being of senior leaders.
Generous Paid Time Off
A flexible and generous vacation, holiday, and personal day policy.
Professional Development
A budget for continuing education, industry conferences, and networking events to ensure you remain at the forefront of industry trends.
Relocation Assistance
A comprehensive relocation package is available for exceptional candidates.
How to Apply
This is a retained search managed exclusively by JRG Partners. If you are a visionary operational leader with the experience and drive to excel in this challenging and rewarding role, we encourage you to apply. Please submit your confidential resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and accomplishments. Due to the high volume of interest, only candidates who meet the specified criteria will be contacted. To learn more about our dedicated executive search capabilities in this sector, please visit JRG Partners’ Private Equity practice. We look forward to reviewing your application and discussing this exceptional opportunity.
