Role Overview for Operating Partner, Manufacturing with a Mid-Market PE Firm – Detroit, MI
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a premier, growth-oriented mid-market private equity firm in their search for a highly experienced and results-driven Manufacturing Operating Partner. This is a pivotal leadership role based in the industrial heartland of Detroit, MI, designed for a seasoned executive with a profound track record of driving operational excellence and transformative growth within manufacturing environments. Our client has a long history of successfully investing in and scaling industrial and manufacturing businesses, and this role is central to their value creation strategy.
The Operating Partner will serve as a critical resource, working alongside the firm’s investment professionals and the leadership teams of its portfolio companies. You will be the in-house expert on all things manufacturing, from the plant floor to the executive suite. Your primary mission will be to identify, develop, and implement strategic initiatives that enhance operational efficiency, drive profitability, and accelerate enterprise value across a diverse portfolio of manufacturing assets. This is not a theoretical or purely advisory role; it demands a hands-on, “roll-up-your-sleeves” approach. You will be deeply involved in pre-acquisition due diligence, post-acquisition integration and 100-day planning, and the long-term strategic execution of value creation plans.
The ideal candidate is a former CEO, COO, or President of a successful mid-market manufacturing company who possesses a deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities within the private equity landscape. You are a master of modern manufacturing principles, a charismatic leader who can influence change, and a strategic thinker who can translate broad objectives into tangible, measurable results. This position offers a unique opportunity to leverage your extensive operational expertise across multiple companies, shaping their future success and sharing in the financial rewards of that growth.
Key Responsibilities of Operating Partner, Manufacturing with a Mid-Market PE Firm – Detroit, MI
Operational Due Diligence
Collaborate with the investment team during the pre-acquisition phase to assess the operational health, capabilities, risks, and value creation potential of target companies. Provide critical insights on manufacturing processes, supply chain, capital needs, and management team capabilities.
Value Creation Strategy & Implementation
For new and existing portfolio companies, lead the development and execution of comprehensive value creation plans. This includes creating detailed 100-day plans post-acquisition and long-term strategic roadmaps focused on operational improvements.
Performance Improvement Leadership
Act as a hands-on catalyst for change within portfolio companies. Champion and implement initiatives focused on key areas such as plant optimization, supply chain management, strategic sourcing and procurement, quality control systems, and inventory management.
Lean & Continuous Improvement
Serve as the subject matter expert and evangelist for continuous improvement methodologies. Drive the adoption of principles from Lean Six Sigma, Theory of Constraints, and other world-class manufacturing systems to eliminate waste, improve quality, and increase throughput.
Executive Mentorship & Coaching
Work closely with portfolio company CEOs and their leadership teams. Act as a trusted advisor, mentor, and coach, helping them develop their skills, navigate challenges, and effectively execute on the value creation plan. In some cases, you may serve in an interim leadership capacity.
Capital Project Oversight
Provide expert guidance and oversight on major capital expenditure projects, including facility expansions, automation and robotics implementation, and new technology adoption, ensuring projects are completed on time, within budget, and deliver the expected ROI.
Governance & Reporting
Develop and implement key performance indicators (KPIs) and operational dashboards to monitor portfolio company performance. Provide regular, insightful reporting to the PE firm’s partners on progress, challenges, and opportunities.
Network & Resource Leverage
Utilize your extensive network of industry contacts, consultants, and suppliers to benefit the portfolio. Identify and introduce best-in-class resources to solve specific operational challenges.
Exit Preparedness
Play a key role in preparing portfolio companies for a successful exit by ensuring their operational infrastructure is robust, scalable, and attractive to potential buyers.
Requirements for the Operating Partner, Manufacturing with a Mid-Market PE Firm – Detroit, MI
Executive Leadership Experience
A minimum of 20 years of progressive experience in manufacturing operations, with at least 5-10 years in a top P&L leadership role (e.g., CEO, President, COO, or General Manager) for a company with revenues between $50 million and $500 million.
Private Equity Exposure
Demonstrable experience working within the private equity ecosystem is highly preferred. This could be as a prior Operating Partner, a C-level executive at a PE-backed company, or a consultant serving PE clients.
Deep Operational Expertise
Proven, hands-on mastery of modern manufacturing and continuous improvement methodologies. Expertise in Lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, supply chain optimization, and quality management systems is essential.
Financial Acumen
Strong command of financial statements and key business drivers. Must be able to connect operational improvements to financial outcomes (EBITDA growth, margin expansion, cash flow improvement).
Change Management Skills
A track record of successfully leading significant operational transformations and driving cultural change. Must possess exceptional influencing skills and the ability to build consensus and drive action without direct authority.
Strategic Mindset
Ability to think strategically about market trends, competitive positioning, and long-term growth while simultaneously managing the tactical details of implementation.
Communication & Interpersonal Skills
Superior communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills. Ability to effectively engage with stakeholders at all levels, from the shop floor to the board room.
Education
Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Business, or a related field is required. An MBA or other advanced degree is strongly preferred.
Location & Travel
Must be based in or willing to relocate to the greater Detroit, MI area. The role will require significant travel to portfolio company sites across North America.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client offers a compensation package designed to attract and retain a top-tier executive leader. This includes:
- A highly competitive base salary and significant annual performance-based bonus.
- A substantial long-term incentive plan, including the opportunity for carried interest in the fund, providing a direct share in the value you help create.
- Comprehensive executive benefits package, including premium health, dental, and vision insurance for you and your dependents.
- A robust 401(k) retirement plan with a generous company match.
- Executive-level professional development and networking opportunities.
- A full relocation package for qualified candidates.
- Generous paid time off, company holidays, and a flexible work environment that respects your experience and autonomy.
How to Apply
JRG Partners is the exclusive recruitment partner for this confidential search. If you are a transformative manufacturing leader ready to make a significant impact across a portfolio of dynamic companies, we encourage you to apply.
To be considered for this exceptional opportunity, please submit your resume and a compelling cover letter outlining your specific achievements in operational value creation. For more information about our expertise in this sector, please visit the JRG Partners’ Private Equity & Industrial Practice page. We look forward to reviewing your application and discussing how your background aligns with this exciting role.
