About the role
Chief Executive Officer | PE-Backed Packaging Manufacturer
Location: 75% travel/on-site requirement
Reports to: Board of Directors
The Opportunity:
Our client is a mid-market packaging manufacturer with a strong reputation for manufacturing reliability and product performance. Backed by private equity, the company is entering an accelerated growth phase ahead of a planned ownership transition. Reporting to the Board, the CEO will lead the company's value creation plan - driving commercial growth, strengthening accountability and cross-functional execution, and preparing the business for a future sale process. This is a hands-on operating mandate for a decisive, execution-oriented leader who thrives where speed, execution, and results matter.
What We're Looking For:
Exit Readiness & PE Experience - A track record preparing a business for sale: building a credible, quantified growth story, anticipating diligence questions, and prioritizing what matters most ahead of an exit. PE-backed operating experience required. Cross-Functional Execution - Proven ability to break down silos and build accountability, particularly around R&D and M&A integration. Commercial Leadership - Hands-on experience building a commercial engine: diversifying the customer base, winning new business, and installing a data-driven sales operating cadence. Packaging Industry Expertise - Deep, firsthand knowledge of the packaging industry and where real category growth exists
Key Responsibilities:
Partner with the Board to build a quantified growth narrative for a future sale process Establish a culture of ownership and cross-functional accountability across the leadership team Accelerate R&D and product development pace, translating capability into new revenue Lead evaluation of M&A opportunities and drive hands-on post-close integration Assess and strengthen the commercial organization to execute an aggressive growth plan Evaluate and execute go-to-market strategy to diversify into adjacent end markets Install a rigorous, data-driven commercial operating cadence Personally engage with top customers to grow key relationships Qualifications 15+ years of progressive management experience, including prior experience as CEO or President with full P&L ownershipPE-backed operating experience, with fluency in sponsor reporting, board dynamics, and driving growth in a leveraged environment Prior exit or comparable M&A, restructuring, or integration experience Industry experience in packaging required Proven, hands-on commercial leadership with experience setting go-to-market strategy and driving revenue growth Track record leading or closely partnering on M&A integration Strong executive presence and credibility with a Board, private equity sponsor, and prospective acquirers Willingness to maintain a significant on-site and travel presence
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