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# Operating Partner, Industrial Services with a PE Group – Chicago, IL


Role Overview for Operating Partner, Industrial Services with a PE Group – Chicago, IL
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a premier, middle-market private equity firm in their search for a distinguished Operating Partner specializing in the Industrial Services sector. Based in Chicago, IL, this is a pivotal role designed for a seasoned executive who has a profound track record of building, leading, and transforming businesses. The Operating Partner will act as a strategic force multiplier, working hand-in-hand with the firm’s investment professionals and the leadership teams of its portfolio companies to unlock and maximize value. This is not a traditional corporate role; it is a dynamic, hands-on position that requires a unique blend of strategic foresight, operational grit, and executive leadership. You will be instrumental in every phase of the investment lifecycle, from pre-acquisition due diligence and thesis development to post-acquisition transformation and successful exit. The ideal candidate is a former C-suite leader (CEO, COO, or President) from the Industrial Services space who possesses a deep understanding of the sector’s nuances and a passion for driving operational excellence and sustainable growth. You will serve as a mentor, a strategist, a problem-solver, and a key member of the board, directly influencing the trajectory and success of multiple enterprises.
Key Responsibilities of Operating Partner, Industrial Services with a PE Group – Chicago, IL
The Operating Partner will be a critical asset to the firm, deploying their expertise across a diverse portfolio of industrial services companies. Responsibilities are broad and require a highly adaptable and results-oriented mindset:
Investment Diligence & Thesis Validation
Collaborate closely with the deal team during the due diligence process for new platform acquisitions. Lead the operational diligence stream, assessing a target company’s operational capabilities, identifying key risks, and quantifying opportunities for improvement and growth. Help validate the investment thesis and build the initial value creation plan.
Post-Acquisition Strategy & 100-Day Plan Execution
Upon acquisition, take a lead role in developing and implementing a comprehensive 100-day plan. Work with portfolio company management to establish strategic priorities, define key performance indicators (KPIs), and launch critical initiatives focused on immediate performance enhancement and long-term value creation.
Operational Excellence & Transformation
Champion and lead the implementation of best-in-class operational practices. This includes driving initiatives in areas such as lean manufacturing, supply chain optimization, procurement, pricing strategies, sales force effectiveness, and service delivery efficiency. You will be the catalyst for instilling a culture of continuous improvement across the portfolio.
Executive Leadership & Mentorship
Act as a trusted advisor and mentor to portfolio company CEOs and their senior leadership teams. Provide guidance on strategic planning, organizational design, talent development, and navigating complex business challenges. Help build high-performing management teams capable of executing the value creation plan.
Board-Level Governance & Oversight
Serve as an active member on the Board of Directors for multiple portfolio companies. Provide strategic oversight, hold management accountable for performance against budget and strategic goals, and ensure alignment between the management team and the private equity firm’s objectives.
Growth Initiatives & M&A Integration
Identify and support strategic growth opportunities, both organic and inorganic. This includes developing strategies for market expansion, new service offerings, and customer acquisition. Play a key role in identifying, evaluating, and integrating strategic add-on acquisitions to accelerate growth and enhance market position.
Performance Monitoring & Reporting
Establish robust performance management systems to track progress against the value creation plan. Regularly report on operational and financial performance to the PE firm’s general partners, providing clear insights and actionable recommendations.
Requirements for the Operating Partner, Industrial Services with a PE Group – Chicago, IL
We are seeking a candidate with a rare combination of deep industry expertise, operational leadership, and financial acumen. The qualifications for this role are rigorous, reflecting its significance and impact:
Executive Leadership Experience
A minimum of 15-20 years of progressive leadership experience, culminating in a C-suite role (CEO, COO, President) with full P&L responsibility for a significant business or enterprise within the Industrial Services sector. Relevant sub-sectors include, but are not limited to, facility services, route-based services, equipment rental, specialty distribution, environmental services, and industrial maintenance.
Proven Value Creation Track Record
Demonstrable experience in leading successful business transformations. Candidates must provide specific, quantifiable examples of how they have driven substantial improvements in revenue, EBITDA, and operational efficiency. A proven track record of driving significant operational improvements and value creation is paramount.
Private Equity Environment Acumen
Prior experience working in a private equity-backed company as a senior executive is highly preferred. The ideal candidate understands the pace, metrics, and governance structures inherent in a PE-owned environment. Direct experience as an Operating Partner is a significant plus.
Mergers & Acquisitions Expertise
Hands-on experience with M&A, including target identification, operational due diligence, and, most critically, post-merger integration. Must have successfully integrated acquired businesses, achieving planned synergies and fostering a unified corporate culture.
Operational Toolkit
Deep expertise in modern operational improvement methodologies such as Lean, Six Sigma, Total Quality Management (TQM), and supply chain management. Ability to diagnose operational bottlenecks and implement effective, lasting solutions.
Financial & Strategic Acumen
Strong financial literacy with the ability to dissect financial statements, understand complex investment models, and translate strategic objectives into financial outcomes. Must be a strategic thinker who can see the big picture while remaining grounded in the details of execution.
Leadership & Communication Skills
Exceptional leadership presence and gravitas. The ability to influence and build consensus with a wide range of stakeholders, from shop-floor employees to board members and investment professionals. Impeccable written and verbal communication skills are essential.
Education
An undergraduate degree in business, engineering, or a related field is required. An MBA from a top-tier institution is strongly preferred.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client offers a compensation and benefits package designed to attract and retain world-class talent. This package reflects the seniority and impact of the Operating Partner role and includes:

A highly competitive base salary and significant annual performance-based bonus.
A substantial opportunity for long-term wealth creation through carried interest in the fund, directly aligning your success with the firm’s performance.
Comprehensive executive health, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your family.
A robust 401(k) retirement savings plan with a generous company match.
Generous paid time off (PTO), paid holidays, and flexible scheduling to support work-life balance.
An expense account for travel and other business-related expenditures.
The opportunity to work alongside a highly intelligent and driven team of investment professionals and executives.
A unique platform to shape the future of multiple companies and leave a lasting legacy in the industrial services industry.

How to Apply
This is a unique opportunity to leverage your extensive operational and leadership experience in a high-impact, entrepreneurial setting. If you are a results-driven executive with a passion for building great businesses, we encourage you to apply. JRG Partners is managing this exclusive search. To express your interest in this transformative leadership opportunity, please visit our Private Equity Executive Search practice area page and submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience. We look forward to learning more about your accomplishments.
JRG Partners and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. 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.