Portfolio CEO: Industrial Chemicals Manufacturing

American Operator • Peoria, IL

4d • $130,000 - $190,000 • Onsite

About The Position

American Operator is seeking an experienced operator to serve as CEO of an industrial cleaning and maintenance chemicals manufacturing business. This role offers the opportunity to lead a profitable company with an established team, taking full responsibility for day-to-day operations and P&L. The primary focus will be on retaining the existing team and customer base, operating the business with discipline, and driving growth from a strong foundation. American Operator will provide support from the outset, with a clear path for the CEO to earn significant equity in the business.

Requirements

• 7+ years of relevant industry experience, with at least 3 years of P&L ownership over a department or entire plant
• Experience building high performance teams with accountability for hiring and performance improvement
• Track record of leading successful LEAN process integrations into batch manufacturing businesses
• Experience growing sales through a distribution network as a manufacturing rep
• Currently located in or a willingness to relocate to one of our target markets (Texas, Florida, Illinois, Ohio, or Pennsylvania)

Nice To Haves

• A track record of growth leading an outside sales team where you consistently exceeded targets
• Direct experience in chemical manufacturing including, formulated products, paints and coatings, lubricants, and other products
• Stepped in as the new leader after an ownership or leadership transition and earned the trust of the existing production and formulation team

Responsibilities

• Grow the business with a focus on key performance metrics as you lead day-to-day plant operations
• Develop and lead the production, quality, and sales team with a culture of high accountability and performance
• Oversee production and dispensing processes with discipline on batch quality and size across a large product portfolio
• Monitor sales, margin, and performance compared to budget to inform go-to-market strategy and pricing
• Manage raw material procurement, plant capacity, and equipment upkeep
• Maintain EPA product and facility registration and GHS labeling compliance across the product line
• Partner with American Operator on strategy, budgeting, and growth planning

Benefits

• Base salary: $130,000–$190,000
• Performance-based bonus opportunities
• Distributions
• Meaningful equity participation beginning at 10% ownership, with the potential to increase based on performance and value creation
• Comprehensive benefits package

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Executive
• Education Level: No Education Listed