CEO

Business Contract Technologies•Grand Rapids, MI

13d•Onsite

About The Position

BCT Staffing is seeking a Chief Executive Officer for a private equity-backed manufacturer and distributor of specialty products serving the reptile and pet care industry. The company generates approximately $10 million in annual revenue, employs 40–45 people, and sells through e-commerce platforms and major retailers, including Petco and Chewy. The business is positioned for its next phase of growth, with ownership targeting operational improvements, expanded distribution, revenue growth, and enterprise value creation over a five-year investment horizon. The CEO will be responsible for the company’s strategic direction, operations, commercial performance, and financial results. This is a hands-on leadership role that works closely with employees, customers, the existing finance team, and the private equity sponsor to execute a disciplined growth strategy. The role includes full P&L accountability, development of a five-year strategic growth plan, strengthening operational and financial practices, building a high-performing leadership team, and preparing the company for a future liquidity event. The position is expected to work on-site in the Grand Rapids, Michigan area. The compensation range is a $250,000–$300,000+ base salary, with performance-based incentives and potential equity participation, subject to final agreement.

Requirements

Proven leadership experience as a CEO, President, COO, General Manager, or senior operating executive with significant P&L responsibility.
Strong manufacturing background; experience in food production, bakery, CPG, pet products, or related industries is relevant.
Demonstrated success improving manufacturing operations, profitability, and organizational performance.
Experience growing a smaller or middle-market business in an entrepreneurial environment.
Understanding of retail distribution, e-commerce, and customer relationships.
Ability to operate strategically while remaining deeply involved in daily execution.
Strong financial acumen and experience partnering with ownership or investors.
Willingness to work on-site in the Grand Rapids, Michigan area.

Nice To Haves

Prior private equity portfolio company experience is preferred but not required.
Experience in bakery, food production, or other manufacturing environments with similar production and distribution dynamics is particularly relevant.

Responsibilities

Oversee day-to-day manufacturing, production, supply chain, inventory, and distribution operations.
Improve manufacturing efficiency, productivity, margins, and quality control.
Establish scalable processes and operating disciplines to support significant business growth.
Maintain a visible, hands-on leadership presence throughout the organization.
Develop and execute a five-year strategic growth plan with the private equity sponsor.
Expand relationships with national retailers, distributors, and e-commerce platforms.
Identify opportunities for new products, additional distribution channels, and market expansion.
Drive profitable revenue growth while maintaining strong operational performance.
Assume full P&L accountability, including revenue growth, profitability, working capital, and cash flow.
Partner with the existing finance team to strengthen financial reporting, budgeting, and forecasting.
Build and mentor a high-performing leadership team while maintaining an entrepreneurial culture.
Establish meaningful KPIs and accountability across all business functions.
Work with the private equity sponsor to establish and execute value-creation initiatives.
Provide transparent reporting and strategic recommendations to ownership.
Position the company for a future liquidity event through sustainable growth and improved operational performance.