Operating Partner

February 20, 2025

Location :

Chicago

Salary :

0

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Andrew Thomson

Vice President

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The role involves leading portfolio companies, driving growth, executing M&A, and enhancing operations.

THE PRIVATE EQUITY FIRM

The firm is a private equity group focused on middle-market companies in North America, typically investing in industrial, manufacturing, and business service sectors. They specialize in partnering with management teams to support growth and operational improvements, aiming for long-term value creation through strategic initiatives and financial expertise. The group takes a proactive approach in enhancing portfolio companies' market positions and operational efficiencies to achieve sustainable growth and profitability.


THE CULTURE

The firm’s portfolio companies have varied cultures but operate under a structured entrepreneurial system. They emphasize professionalization, strategic goal-setting, and disciplined execution. Many portfolio companies require leadership transformation to transition from founder-led operations to scalable, structured businesses.


VISION

What does success look like in this role?

·        Taking responsibility for multiple portfolio companies independently.

·        Successfully integrating add-on acquisitions and executing a buy-and-build strategy.

·        Leading value creation initiatives and driving operational efficiencies.

·        Supporting portfolio company leadership through strategic and financial transitions.


THE ROLE

The day-to-day role for this position will include the following tasks:

·        Handling operational challenges across portfolio companies.

·        Providing leadership development and mentorship to company executives.

·        Overseeing M&A integration and executing growth strategies.

·        Driving financial and operational improvements across businesses


KEY SELLING POINTS OF THE ROLE

·        Direct exposure to a top-tier private equity firm.

·        Significant equity upside with seven-figure performance-based incentives.

·        Opportunity to lead transformation across multiple businesses.

 

KEY CHALLENGES FOR THE ROLE

·        Managing varied personalities and cultures across different portfolio companies.

·        Gaining trust and authority with experienced founders and leadership teams.

·        Balancing short-term execution with long-term value creation.


YOUR BACKGROUND

The successful individual will be able to demonstrate experience in the following:

·        Existing operating partner in private equity with hands-on leadership.

·        Experience in business services, distribution, logistics, manufacturing, industrial automation, and related industries.

·        Managed portfolio companies with revenues of $25M - $250M and held full P&L responsibility.

·        Strong M&A and integration experience, particularly in buy-and-build strategies.

·        Led business transformation, professionalization, and operational scaling.

·        Proven ability to execute quickly and actively manage operations, not just advise.

·        ERP, AI, and digital transformation to enhance decision-making and performance. (preferred)

·        E-commerce and digital marketing experience is a plus. (preferred)

·        Supply chain and logistics optimization for global operations. (preferred)

·        Leadership development to transition founder-led businesses into scalable structures. (preferred)

·        Add-on integration expertise, ensuring smooth transitions and minimizing disruption. (preferred)


YOUR CHARACTERISTICS

The successful individual will display the following characteristics:

  • Gravitas – ability to command immediate respect from portfolio company leadership.
  • Strong personality – must be able to directly engage with CEOs and drive execution.
  • Strategic thinker – able to identify and implement scalable growth strategies.
  • Open-minded – comfortable adapting to varied business cultures and leadership styles.


LOCATION

Illinois

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COMPENSATION PACKAGE

  • Total Compensation: $500,000 all-in cash
  • Equity: Seven-figure performance-based equity package
  • Other Benefits: To be confirmed

 

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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