Role Overview for President, Industrial Automation with a Global Manufacturer – Chicago, IL
JRG Partners has been exclusively retained to identify a transformative and visionary President for the Industrial Automation division of a premier global manufacturing powerhouse. Based in the strategic hub of Chicago, IL, this executive leadership role is a career-defining opportunity to helm a multi-billion-dollar division at the forefront of technological innovation. The successful candidate will assume full P&L responsibility and strategic ownership, driving the division’s growth, profitability, and market leadership across the globe.
Our client is a world-renowned leader in engineering and manufacturing, celebrated for its commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability. The Industrial Automation division is a critical engine for the company’s future, developing and deploying cutting-edge solutions in robotics, control systems, IoT, and smart factory technologies. This position is not merely about managing an existing business; it is about architecting its future. You will be tasked with navigating the complexities of a rapidly evolving industry, capitalizing on the digital transformation sweeping through manufacturing, and cementing the company’s status as the undisputed leader in the space.
As President, you will be the ultimate authority for the division’s global strategy, operations, commercial activities, and technological roadmap. You will lead a vast, international team of talented professionals, fostering a culture of excellence, collaboration, and relentless innovation. This role requires a unique blend of strategic foresight, operational acumen, financial discipline, and inspirational leadership. You will report directly to the corporate CEO and serve as a key member of the global executive leadership team, shaping the direction of the entire enterprise. This is a chance to leave an indelible mark on a global industry leader and redefine the future of manufacturing.
Key Responsibilities of President, Industrial Automation with a Global Manufacturer – Chicago, IL
The President of Industrial Automation will have a broad and impactful scope of responsibilities, encompassing every facet of the division’s performance and strategic direction. Success in this role will be measured by sustainable growth, profitability, market share expansion, and technological leadership.
Strategic Vision & Execution
Develop, articulate, and execute a comprehensive long-term strategic plan for the division that aligns with corporate objectives. Identify and capitalize on emerging market trends, technological advancements, and M&A opportunities to drive sustainable growth and competitive advantage.
Full P&L Ownership
Assume complete accountability for the division’s financial performance, including revenue growth, cost management, operational efficiency, and overall profitability. Oversee budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting, ensuring the division meets and exceeds its financial targets.
Global Operations Leadership
Direct and optimize a complex global network of manufacturing plants, supply chains, and distribution channels. Implement best-in-class operational excellence methodologies (e.g., Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma) to enhance quality, reduce costs, and improve delivery performance.
Commercial & Market Dominance
Lead the global sales, marketing, and business development functions to expand market share in key regions and verticals. Cultivate and maintain executive-level relationships with strategic customers, partners, and industry influencers. Drive the development and execution of aggressive go-to-market strategies.
Technology & Innovation Roadmap
Champion a culture of innovation by overseeing the R&D and product development pipelines. Ensure the division remains at the cutting edge by investing in next-generation technologies and integrating Industry 4.0 principles into both product offerings and internal operations.
Organizational Leadership & Talent Development
Build, mentor, and lead a high-performing global senior leadership team. Foster a dynamic, inclusive, and results-oriented culture that attracts, retains, and develops top-tier talent. Champion employee engagement and professional development initiatives across the division.
Corporate Governance & Stakeholder Management
Serve as the primary representative for the Industrial Automation division to the CEO, Board of Directors, investors, and other key stakeholders. Provide transparent and insightful reporting on divisional performance, strategy, and market dynamics. Ensure full compliance with all legal, regulatory, and ethical standards.
Requirements for the President, Industrial Automation with a Global Manufacturer – Chicago, IL
This is a senior executive position requiring a proven leader with a distinguished track record of success in a comparable industrial technology environment. The ideal candidate will possess a powerful combination of strategic intellect, operational expertise, and inspirational leadership qualities.
Educational Background
A Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business Administration, or a related technical field is required. An MBA or other advanced degree is strongly preferred.
Executive Experience
A minimum of 20 years of progressive professional experience, with at least 7-10 years in a senior executive leadership role (e.g., President, General Manager, Divisional CEO) with full P&L responsibility for a global business unit of significant scale (ideally $1B+ in revenue).
Industry Expertise
Deep and extensive experience within the industrial automation, robotics, process control, advanced manufacturing, or a closely related technology-driven B2B sector is mandatory. Must possess a strong understanding of the competitive landscape, key market drivers, and technological trends.
Demonstrated Performance
A quantifiable track record of driving significant top-line growth, margin expansion, and market share gains. Proven experience in successfully leading business transformations, integrations of acquisitions, and global market expansions.
Global Leadership Acumen
Extensive experience managing large, geographically dispersed, and culturally diverse teams. A global mindset with a history of successfully operating in international markets across North America, Europe, and Asia.
Strategic & Financial Skills
Exceptional strategic thinking and planning abilities, coupled with robust financial acumen. Expertise in financial modeling, M&A evaluation, and complex contract negotiation.
Personal Attributes
Unquestionable integrity, a commanding executive presence, and outstanding communication and influencing skills. A visionary leader who is decisive, resilient, and capable of inspiring confidence and followership at all levels of the organization.
Travel
Willingness and ability to undertake significant global travel (approximately 30-40%) to engage with customers, teams, and operations worldwide.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to rewarding its executive leadership with a compensation and benefits package that is commensurate with the importance of the role and is designed to attract and retain the very best talent in the industry.
Executive Compensation
A highly competitive base salary, a substantial annual performance-based bonus, and a compelling long-term incentive plan (e.g., stock options, performance shares) that provides significant wealth-creation opportunities.
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
Premier, low-cost medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your eligible dependents. Access to executive wellness programs, health advocacy services, and mental health resources.
Retirement & Financial Security
A robust 401(k) retirement plan with a generous company match, a deferred compensation program, and access to personalized financial and estate planning services.
Relocation Support
A comprehensive, white-glove relocation package will be provided to the successful candidate and their family to facilitate a seamless transition to the vibrant Chicago metropolitan area.
Work-Life Integration
A generous paid time off (PTO) policy, company-paid holidays, and a supportive environment that respects the need for balance between a demanding career and personal life.
Executive Perquisites
Includes a monthly car allowance, club memberships, and other benefits befitting a senior executive role within a global enterprise.
How to Apply
This is a confidential, retained search conducted by JRG Partners. To express your interest in this exceptional leadership opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and suitability for the role. All inquiries and applications will be handled with the utmost discretion and confidentiality.
JRG Partners is a leader in executive recruitment, connecting visionary leaders with world-class organizations. To learn more about our expertise in this sector, please visit the homepage for the JRG Partners’ Industrial & Manufacturing executive search practice. We look forward to reviewing your application and discussing this pivotal role in greater detail with qualified candidates.
