Cowen Partners Executive Search, a leading national executive search firm, has been retained by a fast-growing portfolio company and its private equity sponsor to identify a President to lead the organization through its next stage of growth. This vertically integrated manufacturer of wheeled and stationary equipment serves industrial and municipal clients through a direct sales model, delivering durable, high-performance solutions that meet demanding, real-world applications.

The company is entering a transformative phase, expanding its product lines, refurbishment services, and national service network while accelerating international partnerships. This is a rare opportunity for a commercially driven executive with direct sales, manufacturing, and P&L experience to step into a high-impact leadership role backed by an engaged investment partner.

The Opportunity

The President will be responsible for executing a growth-focused strategy across all functional areas of the business. This role requires a strong background in direct sales—ideally with experience selling to industrial, B2B, and municipal customers—as well as deep operational and manufacturing expertise.

The ideal candidate brings a track record of leading world-class manufacturing organizations, scaling commercial efforts, and managing full P&L performance. A sales-oriented mindset and comfort operating in a fast-paced, hands-on environment are essential. Experience in a private equity-backed company is preferred but not required.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

Lead enterprise-wide strategy and translate vision into execution
Align sales, operations, and financial targets with long-term growth plans
Build scalable infrastructure and high-impact processes to support expansion

Sales & Business Development

Lead direct sales efforts and represent the company with key clients and stakeholders
Expand industrial and municipal B2B customer base domestically and internationally
Shape go-to-market strategy and product roadmap based on customer needs and market trends

Operational & Manufacturing Excellence

Oversee day-to-day operations across all business functions
Optimize lean manufacturing, supply chain performance, and delivery metrics
Champion quality, safety, and process improvement initiatives

Financial Management

Own full P&L and drive financial performance across the enterprise
Improve margins, manage costs, and align budgeting and forecasting to strategic priorities

Leadership & Culture

Inspire, lead, and retain a seasoned workforce and executive team
Promote a culture of innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement
Strengthen collaboration across departments and elevate sales performance

Risk & Compliance

Ensure compliance with all regulatory and industry standards
Mitigate operational risks and strengthen internal controls

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Business, Engineering, or related field (MBA preferred)
10+ years of progressive leadership experience in manufacturing
5+ years in a senior executive role with full P&L responsibility
Direct sales experience required; B2B and municipal sales experience strongly preferred
Proven success leading world-class manufacturing operations
Sales-oriented mindset with a strong commercial acumen
Experience managing and modernizing direct sales organizations
Experience in a private equity-backed or high-growth environment preferred
Strong interpersonal, communication, and team leadership skills

Why Des Moines, Iowa?

Affordable Living: Low cost of housing and daily expenses
Family-Friendly: Safe neighborhoods, strong schools, and community values
Lifestyle: River access, outdoor recreation, and a revitalized downtown district
Accessibility: Proximity to regional airports and major transportation corridors

Cowen Partners Executive Search

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