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# VP, Operational Excellence with a PE-backed Services Co. – Indianapolis, IN



Role Overview for VP, Operational Excellence with a PE-backed Services Co. – Indianapolis, IN
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a high-growth, private equity-backed services company in their search for a transformative VP, Operational Excellence. This is a newly created, mission-critical executive leadership position based in Indianapolis, IN. The successful candidate will be a key member of the senior leadership team, reporting directly to the Chief Operating Officer. You will be the primary architect and driver of a culture of continuous improvement, responsible for developing and executing a comprehensive operational excellence strategy that enhances quality, reduces costs, and drives significant enterprise value.
In this dynamic, fast-paced environment, the VP of Operational Excellence will not just be a strategist but also a hands-on leader, working across all business functions to identify inefficiencies and implement scalable solutions. Your work will directly impact the company’s profitability, customer satisfaction, and readiness for future growth, both organic and through acquisition.
This role requires a visionary leader with a proven track record of implementing lean methodologies and driving change within a services-oriented business. You will be instrumental in creating a robust operational platform that can support the company’s aggressive growth targets and ultimately contribute to a successful exit for our private equity partners. This is a unique opportunity to make a lasting impact on a thriving organization and shape its operational future.
The ideal candidate is a data-driven, results-oriented professional with deep expertise in process optimization, change management, and performance metrics. You must be comfortable navigating the unique demands of a private equity environment, which includes a focus on rapid value creation, rigorous KPI reporting, and a high-accountability culture. You will serve as a coach and mentor, building operational excellence capabilities throughout the organization and championing a mindset of continuous improvement at every level. If you are a strategic thinker with a passion for operational rigor and a desire to build something truly exceptional, we encourage you to apply.
Key Responsibilities of VP, Operational Excellence with a PE-backed Services Co. – Indianapolis, IN
Strategic Leadership & Vision
Develop and deploy a comprehensive, multi-year operational excellence roadmap aligned with the company’s strategic goals and the private equity sponsor’s value creation plan. Champion this vision across the organization, securing buy-in from the executive team to frontline employees.
Process Improvement & Re-engineering
Lead initiatives to analyze, redesign, and optimize core business processes across the enterprise. Utilize methodologies such as Lean, Six Sigma, Value Stream Mapping, and Kaizen events to eliminate waste, improve workflow, and enhance service delivery. Implement proven operational excellence principles to create a sustainable competitive advantage.
Performance Management & KPI Development
Establish, monitor, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) and operational metrics. Develop dashboards and reporting mechanisms to provide the leadership team and PE sponsors with clear visibility into operational performance, highlighting trends, risks, and opportunities.
Change Management
Act as the primary change agent for the organization. Develop and execute effective change management strategies to ensure the successful adoption of new processes, technologies, and cultural norms. Proactively address resistance and build momentum for continuous improvement initiatives.
Technology & Automation Integration
Evaluate and recommend new technologies and automation solutions to improve efficiency, accuracy, and scalability. Partner with the IT department to lead the implementation of systems that support operational excellence goals, such as CRM, ERP, or specialized workflow management tools.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Work closely with leaders in Operations, Finance, Sales, HR, and IT to ensure that operational improvements are integrated seamlessly across the business. Foster a collaborative environment where departments work together to solve complex operational challenges.
Talent Development & Coaching
Build a high-performing operational excellence team and foster these capabilities throughout the organization. Mentor and coach employees at all levels on the principles and tools of continuous improvement, creating a sustainable internal competency.
Cost Optimization
Identify and execute on opportunities for significant cost reduction without sacrificing quality or customer satisfaction. Conduct detailed financial analysis to build business cases for improvement projects and track their financial impact.
Scalability for Growth
Develop and implement standardized processes and systems that can support rapid organic growth and the successful integration of future acquisitions. Play a key role in the due diligence and post-merger integration process from an operational perspective.
Quality Assurance
Implement robust quality assurance programs and control systems to ensure the highest standards of service delivery. Establish feedback loops to continuously incorporate customer insights into process improvements.
Requirements for the VP, Operational Excellence with a PE-backed Services Co. – Indianapolis, IN
Educational Background
Bachelor’s degree in Business, Engineering, Operations Management, or a related field is required. An MBA or other advanced degree is highly preferred.
Professional Experience
A minimum of 12-15 years of progressive experience in operations management, with at least 5-7 years in a senior leadership role specifically focused on operational excellence, continuous improvement, or business transformation.
Industry Expertise
Demonstrable experience within a services-based industry (e.g., business services, professional services, tech-enabled services, logistics) is essential.
Private Equity Exposure
Prior experience working in a private equity-backed portfolio company is strongly preferred. Candidates must understand the pace, reporting rigor, and value-creation focus inherent in a PE environment.
Methodology Mastery
Formal certification and deep expertise in Lean and/or Six Sigma (Master Black Belt or Black Belt) are required. Proven ability to apply these methodologies to drive tangible business results.
Leadership & Influence
Exceptional leadership skills with the ability to inspire and motivate teams. A proven track record of influencing stakeholders at all levels, from the board of directors to frontline staff, without direct authority.
Analytical & Data-Driven
Strong quantitative and analytical skills. Expertise in using data to identify problems, analyze root causes, and measure the impact of improvement initiatives. Proficient with data analysis tools and process mapping software.
Financial Acumen
Solid understanding of financial statements (P&L, Balance Sheet) and the ability to build compelling business cases, calculate ROI, and track the financial benefits of projects.
Communication Skills
Superior verbal, written, and presentation skills. Ability to articulate complex concepts clearly and concisely to a variety of audiences.
Project Management
Strong project management skills, with experience leading large-scale, cross-functional transformation projects from conception to completion. PMP certification is a plus.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client offers a highly competitive and comprehensive compensation package designed to attract and retain top-tier executive talent. This includes:
Competitive Executive Salary
A compelling base salary commensurate with experience.
Performance-Based Bonus
A significant annual bonus potential tied to individual and company performance metrics.
Equity Participation
A meaningful equity stake in the company, providing the opportunity to share in the value created through a successful exit.
Comprehensive Health Coverage
Premium medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your eligible dependents.
Retirement Savings
A 401(k) plan with a generous company matching contribution.
Generous Paid Time Off
A flexible and generous paid time off (PTO) policy, in addition to paid company holidays.
Professional Development
A budget for continued learning, executive coaching, and participation in industry conferences.
Relocation Assistance
A comprehensive relocation package is available for the right candidate.
How to Apply
JRG Partners is exclusively managing this confidential search. To be considered for this pivotal leadership opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and accomplishments. We are seeking a leader who can not only meet the requirements but also align with a culture of high performance and integrity.
Interested candidates should apply directly through our portal. To learn more about our expertise in placing top executives within high-growth, investor-backed companies, please visit the JRG Partners’ Private Equity Practice page. We look forward to reviewing your application.
Our client is an Equal Opportunity Employer. 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.