THE PORTFOLIO COMPANY
This portfolio company is a long-standing manufacturer specializing in braking systems and friction products, with a strong focus on military and industrial applications. Founded in the 1920s, the company has developed a global reputation for high-performance components including sintered metallic brake pads, clutch components, and wet disc brakes. Currently generating $11.3M in sales with a net profit of approximately $700K, the company has ambitions to grow to $15M in the medium term. The ownership is preparing for a full exit in the next 5–10 years and is beginning the transition process by replacing existing leadership and investing in a strategic growth plan.
THE PRIVATE EQUITY FIRM
The Private Equity firm is a client-referred sponsor with a strategic interest in acquiring and scaling niche manufacturing businesses. They specialize in buy-and-build strategies and focus on fostering leadership teams with operational autonomy. While not heavily involved in day-to-day activity, they emphasize top-line growth, strategic development, and preparing businesses for long-term success and exit.
THE CULTURE
The company culture is engineering-led and operationally focused, with lean involvement from ownership. The current structure includes capable engineers and a strong head of operations. With the planned transition, there is an immediate need for an executive who can take initiative in building out a sales organization and driving strategic growth initiatives while maintaining operational excellence.
VISION
What does success look like in this role?
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Developed and scaled a salesforce to drive new business and top-line growth.
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Implemented KPIs and structured sales processes to align with growth objectives.
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Increased sales and profit margins, positioning the company toward $15M revenue target.
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Successfully bought out the current president and established strong executive leadership for future transition.
THE ROLE
The President will be responsible for:
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Building a new sales function from the ground up.
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Implementing sales KPIs and processes to support scalable growth.
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Leading the business with full P&L responsibility and operational oversight.
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Managing engineering and operational teams, including the Head of Operations.
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Working closely with the owner on buyout transition and long-term exit strategy.
KEY SELLING POINTS OF THE ROLE
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Lead a legacy manufacturing business through transformation and growth.
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Opportunity to buy out and replace the existing president.
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Establish and lead a brand-new sales function.
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Partner closely with ownership in planning a future exit.
KEY CHALLENGES FOR THE ROLE
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Developing a sales organization in a previously sales-light environment.
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Managing financial pressures and stabilizing cash flow.
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Replacing long-term leadership while maintaining operational continuity.
YOUR BACKGROUND
Successful candidates will demonstrate:
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Experience building sales teams and sales processes within manufacturing businesses.
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Background in powdered metals or friction/braking/clutch product manufacturing is highly desirable.
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Proven P&L leadership and strategic growth execution.
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Experience in businesses with revenue of $10M+ and plans to scale further.
YOUR CHARACTERISTICS
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Sales-driven and operationally astute.
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Disciplined and decisive leader able to manage change and transition.
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Comfortable navigating legacy environments and modernizing structures.
LOCATION
Akron, OH
COMPENSATION PACKAGE
Basic Salary: $210,000–$230,000
Bonus: Year-End Bonus Plan
Equity: Not confirmed
401k: Not confirmed
Healthcare: Not 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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