Chief Executive Officer / CEO

January 10, 2025

Location :

Chicago

Salary :

Sector:

Expiry Date:

April 10, 2025

Job Ref.:

577

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Alex Rawlings

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THE PORTFOLIO COMPANY

The company is a distinguished national commercial interior design and architecture firm. It prides itself on a diverse and dynamic team that embraces collaboration and innovation, deeply understanding the various markets it serves. Their core values include curiosity, passion, critical thinking, and integrity, which guide their approach to delivering spaces that not only meet aesthetic and functional requirements but also aim to improve the world.


THE PRIVATE EQUITY FIRM

The Private Equity firm focuses on lower to middle-market manufacturing, industrial, and distribution sectors. Managing 11 portfolio companies, they stand out with rigorous deal sourcing, disciplined investment criteria, and a strong focus on operational excellence and equity value creation through key metrics and growth initiatives.


THE CULTURE

The company culture is characterized by a dynamic blend of creativity and practical problem-solving, driven by acquisitions. The team is known for being problem solvers who are committed to building strong relationships with customers, delivering projects on time, and operating with speed. While partnering closely with clients, the design-oriented businesses showcase significant creativity yet seek to enhance their commercial savvy.



VISION

What does success look like in this role?

  • Aim for exit within 2-3 years
  • Quickly establish and execute brand strategy
  • Emphasize continuous improvement focus
  • Reduce BTI and investor firm's internal barriers
  • Target a 7x revenue multiple Talent Engagement Pack
  • Provide vision and improve execution as CEO
  • Integrate acquired companies fully
  • Optimize supply chain for cost, quality, and speed
  • Expand into higher margin markets (senior and student living, office, residential)
  • Enhance salesperson productivity
  • Raise design gross profit per headcount to $200k
  • Merge cultures, systems, and retain talent post-acquisition
  • Improve design function for higher margins and attract new talent


THE ROLE

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

  • Prioritize executing the current strategy
  • Focus on action over planning
  • Implement strategies for improvement and branding
  • Improve internal collaboration and investor relations
  • Hit financial growth and efficiency targets


KEY SELLING POINTS OF THE ROLE

  • The opportunity to lead a business through a 2-year exit process.
  • Backing by a reputable Private Equity firm.
  • Strong market potential for growth through M&A and organic expansion.
  • An underutilized yet highly experienced and engaged board of directors.
  • An existing strong team, including a highly competent CFO.


KEY CHALLENGES FOR THE ROLE

  • Supply chain inefficiencies due to external factors.
  • Integrating the various acquired businesses under a unified brand.
  • Shifting to an outbound sales model.
  • Expanding into more profitable markets, such as senior living, student living, and residential.
  • Addressing talent acquisition needs, particularly in design and sales.
  • Achieving the desired EBITDA growth and revenue targets.


YOUR BACKGROUND

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

  • CEO/COO/President experience with a history of creating value.
  • Managing and improving supply chains and productivity.
  • Strong private equity exit experience.
  • Experience with banks and lenders.
  • Capability to build and lead a high-performing team.
  • Expertise in services-based businesses (e.g., Pest Control, HVAC, etc.).
  • Experience in hospitality or interior design (preferred, not essential).
  • Proven M&A and integration experience.
  • Connections with major hotel chains (preferred).


YOUR CHARACTERISTICS

The successful individual will display the following characteristics:

  • An entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, results-oriented environment.
  • Strong communication skills, both with the PE firm and within the company.
  • A hands-on approach to execution and strategy implementation.


LOCATION

Georgia - https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/country_result.jsp?country=Georgia


COMPENSATION PACKAGE

  • Minimum Base Salary: $300,000
  • Maximum Base Salary: $350,000
  • Bonus Package: 50% to 100%
  • 401k: Available
  • Equity: Yes, details to be confirmed
  • Healthcare: Included



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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