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 company and receive the support, coaching, and community needed to grow it for the next generation. Over time, they follow a clear pathway toward becoming a significant equity owner if growth targets are met.
Are you a proven industry pro who’s ready to build a business for yourself?
Do you want to lead a 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?
Would you relocate for the right long-term opportunity to build your future?
By joining our Portfolio CEO Program, you position yourself for future CEO opportunities in an established small business where strong operational leadership is needed most. When an opportunity aligns with your capabilities, we’ll reach out and you’ll work directly with our team to understand the business, align on priorities, and prepare for a successful leadership transition.
As the Portfolio CEO, 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 ownership.
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.
10+ years of operational leadership experience in an American Operator target industry. (Preferably Manufacturing, Value-Add Distribution, Flooring, Electrical or Plumbing Services).
5+ years of hiring/firing authority.
5+ years of responsibility over P&L and/or company budgets.
Proven success managing teams and complex operations.
Small business leadership experience.
Excellent communication and relationship management skills.
Entrepreneurial mindset with a long-term approach to business building.
Must be willing to regionally locate (5-state area)
Compensation: Base salary range of $150,000-$180,000, along with a comprehensive benefits package that may include health coverage, paid time off, and holidays. The role is eligible for additional compensation, including equity participation; the amount varies based on the portfolio company and deal structure.
*Location Disclaimer: Opportunities to lead an American Operator acquisition business are based in various locations across the US and relocation will be required for this role if you are not in a commutable distance from the business. The exact location of the business will be revealed during the interview process.
Danaher Corporation
Aldevron
Integrated DNA Technologies
Mondelēz International
IQVIA
