Role Overview for SVP, Portfolio Operations with a PE Fund – Dallas, TX
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a premier, middle-market private equity fund in their search for a Senior Vice President (SVP) of Portfolio Operations. Based in Dallas, Texas, this is a critical leadership role designed for a seasoned operator and strategic thinker who can act as a catalyst for growth and operational excellence across a diverse portfolio of companies. Our client has a long-standing track record of successful investments and is known for its collaborative, hands-on approach to building market-leading businesses.
The SVP of Portfolio Operations will serve as a key member of the firm’s operations group, a dedicated team of experts who partner with portfolio company management to drive significant, measurable value creation. This is not a purely theoretical or advisory role; it requires a ‘roll-up-your-sleeves’ mentality and the ability to translate high-level strategy into tangible execution and results. You will be a trusted advisor to C-suite executives, a mentor to their teams, and a crucial link between the investment professionals and the operational realities of the businesses they own.
The ideal candidate will bring a powerful combination of top-tier consulting experience and in-house operational leadership, demonstrating a history of successfully implementing transformative initiatives that enhance profitability, drive growth, and optimize performance. You will be instrumental in developing and executing post-acquisition 100-day plans, identifying key levers for improvement, and managing complex projects from conception to completion. This role offers a unique opportunity to impact the trajectory of multiple companies and directly contribute to the fund’s overall investment returns (IRR) and success.
Key Responsibilities of SVP, Portfolio Operations with a PE Fund – Dallas, TX
The SVP of Portfolio Operations will be responsible for a wide range of activities aimed at maximizing the value of the fund’s investments. This includes, but is not limited to, the following:
Value Creation Strategy & Execution
Collaborate with investment teams and portfolio company leadership to develop and implement comprehensive value creation plans. This includes leading the initial 100-day planning process post-acquisition and establishing long-term strategic roadmaps.
Operational Excellence Initiatives
Identify, prioritize, and lead high-impact operational improvement projects. This may involve lean manufacturing implementation, supply chain optimization, strategic sourcing and procurement, salesforce effectiveness, pricing strategy, and back-office process re-engineering.
Financial Performance Enhancement
Partner with portfolio company CFOs and finance teams to improve financial planning and analysis (FP&A), budgeting, forecasting, working capital management, and the quality and timeliness of financial reporting.
Growth & Commercial Strategy
Support organic and inorganic growth initiatives. This includes assisting with go-to-market strategies, new product or service launches, market expansion, and the operational integration of add-on acquisitions.
Executive Leadership & Mentorship
Act as a strategic partner and coach to portfolio company CEOs, COOs, and other senior leaders. Provide guidance, share best practices, and help build high-performing management teams.
Performance Monitoring and Reporting
Develop, implement, and track key performance indicators (KPIs) across the portfolio. Prepare and deliver regular, insightful performance reviews and operational updates to the fund’s partners and investment committee.
Pre-Acquisition Due Diligence
Provide critical operational insight during the due diligence process for new investment opportunities. Assess operational risks, validate synergy assumptions, and identify potential areas for post-close value creation.
Best Practice Institutionalization
Develop and manage a toolkit of best practices, analytical tools, and standardized processes. Facilitate a community of practice among portfolio company executives to encourage knowledge sharing and continuous improvement across the portfolio.
Project Management
Oversee multiple complex projects simultaneously, ensuring they are completed on time, within budget, and deliver the expected results. Manage relationships with third-party consultants and advisors when necessary.
Requirements for the SVP, Portfolio Operations with a PE Fund – Dallas, TX
The successful candidate will be a results-oriented leader with a proven track record of driving operational change and creating value. We are seeking an individual with a unique blend of analytical rigor, strategic thinking, and hands-on implementation skills.
Professional Experience
A minimum of 12-15 years of progressive professional experience, ideally with a combination of:
- 3-5 years at a top-tier management consulting firm (e.g., McKinsey, Bain, BCG, AlixPartners, Alvarez & Marsal) with a focus on operations, performance improvement, or private equity services.
- Significant experience in a corporate leadership role (e.g., COO, VP of Operations, General Manager) with P&L responsibility within a relevant industry such as manufacturing, industrial services, or business services.
- Direct experience working within a private equity fund’s portfolio operations group is highly desirable.
Education
An MBA from a top-tier business school is strongly preferred. A Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business, Finance, or a related technical field is required.
Functional Expertise
Deep, hands-on expertise in several operational disciplines. The candidate must have a proven track record in private equity value creation through methods such as Lean/Six Sigma, supply chain management, strategic sourcing, sales and marketing effectiveness, and post-merger integration.
Analytical & Financial Acumen
Superior quantitative and analytical skills. Must be able to quickly diagnose business challenges, analyze complex data sets, and build financial models to support recommendations. Strong understanding of financial statements and the key drivers of enterprise value.
Leadership & Influence
Exceptional leadership presence and interpersonal skills. The ability to influence and drive change in a collaborative manner, often without direct authority. Proven experience in coaching and developing senior executives.
Communication Skills
Outstanding written and verbal communication skills. Must be capable of presenting complex ideas clearly and concisely to C-level executives and private equity partners.
Mindset & Attributes
A proactive, self-starting individual with a high sense of urgency and a strong bias for action. Must be comfortable with ambiguity and thrive in a fast-paced, results-driven environment. Unquestionable integrity and a team-player mentality are essential.
Location & Travel
The role is based in Dallas, TX. The candidate must be willing and able to travel extensively (estimated 50-70%) to portfolio company locations across North America.
This role is an exceptional opportunity for a world-class operational leader to join a highly respected private equity firm and make a substantial impact on a diverse and growing portfolio. You will be challenged, rewarded, and given a significant platform to drive meaningful change and create lasting value.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client offers a highly competitive and comprehensive compensation and benefits package designed to attract and retain top talent. This includes:
- Highly competitive base salary and a significant annual performance-based bonus.
- Meaningful participation in the fund’s carried interest plan, providing long-term wealth creation opportunities.
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance with premium coverage for employees and their families.
- A 401(k) retirement savings plan with a generous company match.
- Generous paid time off (PTO), sick leave, and paid company holidays.
- A professional development allowance to support continuous learning, conference attendance, and executive education.
- Executive wellness programs and other perks designed to support a healthy work-life balance.
How to Apply
JRG Partners has been exclusively retained to manage this critical search. We are seeking qualified candidates who are passionate about driving operational excellence and creating value in a private equity context. If you meet the requirements outlined above and are interested in exploring this exciting opportunity, we encourage you to apply.
To be considered, please submit your resume and a brief cover letter outlining your relevant experience and interest in the role. To learn more about our expertise in this sector and view other opportunities, please visit the page for our dedicated Private Equity practice team. We look forward to hearing from you.
