THE PORTFOLIO COMPANY

The portfolio company is a leading provider of interior design and construction solutions, delivering over 200 projects annually. With a headcount of approximately 80, the business offers a comprehensive suite of services, including interior design, procurement, financing, project management, logistics and installation, and architectural design. The company primarily serves mid-market clients in hospitality, senior living, student housing, and multifamily markets across the United States.

Originally established in 1979, the business is currently undergoing a turnaround with ambitions to grow EBITDA from $1.5M to $4M. Despite recent challenges—including non-compliance with bank covenants, cash flow constraints, and integration issues—the company is targeting an exit in 2027 with financial goals of $100M revenue and $10M EBITDA. The leadership team has seen significant recent improvements, with a strong focus on culture, communication, and strategic execution.
 

THE PRIVATE EQUITY FIRM

The Private Equity firm, based in Michigan, specializes in lower to middle-market investments within manufacturing, industrial, business services, and distribution sectors. Since its founding in 2010, it has completed over 35 acquisitions. The firm has a track record of market-leading returns and emphasizes hands-on operational involvement and partnership with portfolio company executives. The Managing Partner brings an operator’s mindset to private equity, supporting leadership teams in driving value and executing strategic growth plans.
 

THE CULTURE

The company has transitioned from a legacy model to a future-focused organization, marked by an increasingly positive and transparent culture. A structured and intentional leadership team is now in place, with a focus on celebrating achievements, reducing turnover, and aligning the business for sustainable growth. The CEO, a former CHRO and current board member, brings a people-first, results-driven approach. The environment values resilience, servant leadership, and strategic thinking.
 

VISION

What does success look like in this role?

• Build a high-impact, quality Finance team.

• Contribute as a key member of the Executive team and collaborate closely with the Board.

• Establish accurate revenue and cash flow forecasts.

• Drive EBITDA growth and produce timely financial reports.

• Lead the acquisition and integration of at least four businesses in related sectors.

• Shift focus toward high-growth verticals including senior living and student housing.

• Outsource warehousing and project installation to improve efficiency.

• Achieve $100M in revenue and $10M EBITDA by the 2027 exit.

THE ROLE

The CFO will be responsible for:

• Deliver timely and accurate financial statements, optimize NetSuite usage, and enforce strong financial controls.

• Align financial strategy with company goals, provide decision-making insights, and develop strategic models.

• Lead cost control, analyze profitability, and oversee financial performance.

• Conduct due diligence and integrate new acquisitions.

• Consolidate and strengthen the finance team, ensuring alignment with P&L and business goals.

• Oversee IT, insurance, risk management, and office operations.

• Work with the CEO and Board to drive strategic initiatives and maintain alignment with the Private Equity firm.

KEY SELLING POINTS OF THE ROLE

• Backed by a highly experienced Private Equity sponsor.

• Opportunity to build a high-performance finance function.

• Involvement in a fast-paced acquisition strategy and strategic growth planning.

KEY CHALLENGES FOR THE ROLE

• Leading through a high-pressure turnaround and preparing for exit in 2027.

• Managing expensive debt and bank covenant compliance.

• Integrating multiple business units and consolidating financials.

• Implementing and optimizing NetSuite across the organization.

• Balancing short-term financial pressures with long-term strategic growth.

• Achieving a 10% EBITDA margin amid low hospitality sector margins and long project cycles in commercial segments.

YOUR BACKGROUND

Successful candidates will demonstrate:

• Experience as a CFO or senior finance leader in a PE-backed business.

• Strong understanding of project-based accounting and financial operations in service-driven businesses.

• Expertise in debt management, banking relationships, and financial forecasting.

• Exposure to multi-acquisition strategies and corporate governance.

• Background in sectors such as interior design, architecture, construction, or product services for hospitality/multi-family markets.

• Familiarity with NetSuite preferred.

YOUR CHARACTERISTICS

• Hands-on and detail-oriented with a strong servant leadership approach.

• Resilient and strategic with the ability to lead during complex transitions.

• Fact-based decision-maker with strong process development skills.

LOCATION

Flexible across Eastern/Central U.S., with office locations in Chicago and Atlanta preferred.

COMPENSATION PACKAGE

Basic Salary: $200,000–$225,000
Bonus: 30%
Equity: Equivalent (TBC)
401k: Yes
Healthcare: Yes

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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