Portfolio CEO: Machinery Distribution Business

American Operator is looking to add a Portfolio CEO to lead one of our Machinery Distribution companies. As the Portfolio CEO, you position yourself to lead an established small business where strong operational leadership is needed most. You’ll run the business with full accountability, driving performance, developing the team, and ensuring stability during and after the handoff. Throughout the journey, American Operator provides leadership transition support, strategic guidance, and a network of peers so you can focus on delivering results and building a long-term path toward eventual ownership. This role is based in Baltimore, Maryland.

IS THIS YOU?

• Are you a proven industry pro who’s ready to build a business for yourself?

• Do you want to lead an entire business end-to-end instead of managing one slice of it?

• Have you dreamed of running your own business but haven’t had the idea or chance?

• Do you care deeply about people, service, and building organizations that last?

• Do you know the ins and outs of what it takes to operate a machinery distribution business?

• Would you relocate for the right long-term opportunity to build your future?

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead day-to-day operations and own 100% of the company’s P&L.

• Manage and develop the existing team to achieve strong execution and accountability.

• Oversee customer relationships, quality control, and job profitability.

• Maintain vendor and supplier relationships.

• Analyze operational data to make informed decisions about pricing, staffing, and capital allocation.

• Create and execute annual budgets, forecasts, and growth plans.

• Partner with American Operator and key stakeholders to drive the company’s next stage of success.

• Build credibility with the existing team, customers, and owner during the transition period.

• Maintain operational discipline and uphold the company’s legacy and reputation.

• Deliver measurable improvement in revenue, profitability, and cash flow.

• Ensure safe, compliant, and efficient operations.

• Take full ownership of business performance and culture.

• Demonstrate leadership grounded in accountability, humility, and sound judgment.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• 5+ years of operational leadership experience working for a machinery distribution business.

• 3+ years of hiring/firing authority.

• 3+ years of responsibility over P&L or company budgets.

• Proven success managing teams and complex operations.

• Experience as a sales manager for a machinery manufacturer or a manufacturing distribution business.

• Small business leadership experience.

• Excellent communication and relationship management skills.

• Entrepreneurial mindset with a long-term approach to business building.

• Strong preference for experience in packaging process engineering.

YOUR NEXT CHAPTER STARTS HERE

Apply today to learn more about partnering with American Operator.

Compensation: Base salary range of $125,000–$150,000, with benefits provided by the portfolio company, which may include health, dental, and vision insurance, paid time off, paid holidays, and retirement benefits. The role is eligible for additional compensation, including equity participation; the amount may vary based on the portfolio company and deal structure.

*Location Disclaimer: This is an opportunity to lead a American Operator acquisition business based in the greater Baltimore metro area. Relocation will be required for this role if you're not located within a commutable distance. The exact location of this business will be revealed during the interview process.

About American Operator

American Operator exists to keep the American Dream alive through small-business leadership & ownership. We place experienced operators into businesses of retiring owners who want their life’s work placed in capable, values-driven hands. Our mission is to ensure great businesses stay local, stay strong, and stay in the hands of leaders who care.

Operators who partner with us step into the CEO role of an established Main Street business and receive the support, coaching, and community needed to grow it into the next generation. Over time, they follow a clear pathway with the opportunity to become the next owner - building a future for themselves, their families, and the communities they serve.