President

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?

• Developed and scaled a salesforce to drive new business and top-line growth.

• Implemented KPIs and structured sales processes to align with growth objectives.

• Increased sales and profit margins, positioning the company toward $15M revenue target.

• Successfully bought out the current president and established strong executive leadership for future transition.

THE ROLE
The President will be responsible for:

• Building a new sales function from the ground up.

• Implementing sales KPIs and processes to support scalable growth.

• Leading the business with full P&L responsibility and operational oversight.

• Managing engineering and operational teams, including the Head of Operations.

• Working closely with the owner on buyout transition and long-term exit strategy.

KEY SELLING POINTS OF THE ROLE

• Lead a legacy manufacturing business through transformation and growth.

• Opportunity to buy out and replace the existing president.

• Establish and lead a brand-new sales function.

• Partner closely with ownership in planning a future exit.

KEY CHALLENGES FOR THE ROLE

• Developing a sales organization in a previously sales-light environment.

• Managing financial pressures and stabilizing cash flow.

• Replacing long-term leadership while maintaining operational continuity.

YOUR BACKGROUND
Successful candidates will demonstrate:

• Experience building sales teams and sales processes within manufacturing businesses.

• Background in powdered metals or friction/braking/clutch product manufacturing is highly desirable.

• Proven P&L leadership and strategic growth execution.

• Experience in businesses with revenue of $10M+ and plans to scale further.

YOUR CHARACTERISTICS

• Sales-driven and operationally astute.

• Disciplined and decisive leader able to manage change and transition.

• 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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