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