COO role in PE-backed architectural firm, scaling to $100M, Dallas-based leadership opportunity.
THE PORTFOLIO COMPANY
The portfolio company specializes in commercial architectural railings, including glass and metal fabrication, design, and installation. Their operations are project-based, made-to-order, and built to custom specifications. The company has a strong presence in Texas but also takes on nationwide projects. With a focus on scaling, they aim to grow from $45M to $100M organically in preparation for a sale within the next three years.
THE PRIVATE EQUITY FIRM
The Private Equity firm is a private investment partnership dedicated to providing unique exit and recapitalization opportunities. Unlike traditional PE firms or strategic acquisition partners, they focus on liquidity solutions for founders, business owners, and families while maintaining strategic, highly engaged partnerships. Their approach ensures businesses are well-positioned for future success while aligning with long-term investment strategies.
THE CULTURE
The company has transitioned from a family-run business to a more professional structure while maintaining a great culture with a diverse employee base. Systems and processes are now highly refined. The existing CEO is set to retire after the sale, and the incoming COO will play a key role in scaling the business and ensuring a smooth transition.
VISION
What does success look like in this role?
· Scaling the business from $45M to $100M organically.
· Growing the team, including sales, project management, and installation crews.
· Maintaining first-class KPIs and ensuring high-level project delivery.
· Preparing the company for a successful sale and making it attractive to the next buyer.
· Developing and executing a national scale-up expansion strategy.
THE ROLE
The day-to-day role for this position will include the following tasks:
· Overseeing full P&L responsibilities and ensuring operational excellence.
· Driving vision and strategy while remaining execution-focused.
· Expanding the company’s national footprint and optimizing operations.
· Managing project-based manufacturing, engineering, fabrication, and installation work.
· Sourcing international materials efficiently.
· Leading and growing the organization’s teams in production, installation, and project management.
· Ensuring the company is well-positioned for sale and attractive to potential buyers.
KEY SELLING POINTS OF THE ROLE
· Opportunity to scale a company to $100M and beyond.
· Chance to take on a CEO role post-sale.
· Hands-on leadership role in a growing PE-backed business.
· Equity participation available for the right candidate (~1%).
KEY CHALLENGES FOR THE ROLE
· Replacing a long-standing operational leader in the company.
· Managing the transition period effectively.
· Structuring the team and operations for scale.
· Ensuring the business is well-prepared for the next owner.
YOUR BACKGROUND
The successful individual will be able to demonstrate experience in the following:
· Architectural glass, metal fabrication, and project-based installation.
· Scaling businesses from $40M to $100M or having strong scaling experience.
· Private equity-backed environments and preparing a company for a sale.
· International material sourcing and supply chain management.
· Balancing deep operational involvement with high-level strategic planning.
· Full P&L management and financial oversight.
YOUR CHARACTERISTICS
The successful individual will display the following characteristics:
· CEO-caliber individual capable of stepping into a COO role pre-sale.
· Strong operational leader with a strategic vision.
· Entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to scale a business effectively.
· Capable of drilling down into execution while maintaining a broad vision.
LOCATION
Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas
https://www.bestplaces.net/cost_of_living/metro/texas/dallas-fort_worth-arlington
COMPENSATION PACKAGE
Basic Salary: $250,000 - $300,000
Bonus Package: Yes, TBD
Equity: TBD
401k: TBD
Healthcare: TBD
Raw Selection is an executive search firm working exclusively with Private Equity firms and their portfolio companies across Europe & North America.
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