Operations

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At Purple Squirrel Advisors (PSA), we specialize in placing operational leaders who drive efficiency, innovation, and growth in small to mid-sized businesses. We understand that the skill set required for a VP of Operations in a $50 million company is vastly different from that of a large corporation. Our expertise lies in identifying leaders who can balance strategic vision with hands-on execution.

We’ve successfully placed Chief Operating Officers (COOs), Directors of Engineering, Vice Presidents of Supply Chain, CEOs, Integrators, and Presidents across various industries. Our deep industry knowledge allows us to match companies with operational leaders who optimize processes and align with company culture and strategic objectives.

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Chief Operating Officer (COO) & President

A strong operations leader is critical to scaling a business, optimizing supply chains, and improving profitability. Whether guiding a company through succession, managing a PE-backed transformation, or building operational infrastructure, the right COO or President must be both strategic and tactical.

PSA’s Expertise:

  • Middle-Market Operational Leadership: We focus on leaders with experience in small to mid-sized businesses who can step in and deliver immediate impact.
  • Industry-Specific Expertise: Many operational roles require specialized knowledge—whether in manufacturing, distribution, construction, or logistics. We ensure candidates bring the necessary technical and industry expertise.
  • Strategic & Hands-On Balance: Mid-sized businesses require leaders who can drive high-level strategy while also engaging with frontline teams to build trust and drive execution.
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Success Story: PSA placed a General Manager for a newly acquired platform investment of a PE firm. This foundational company in the construction sector was undergoing a leadership transition as the owner retired. The GM played a critical role in the succession plan, seamlessly integrating with the blue-collar workforce while executing a strategic growth plan.

Vice President of Operations

The VP of Operations is the driving force behind process improvements, cost savings, and operational excellence. In fast-growing companies, this role requires adaptability, problem-solving, and cross-functional collaboration.

PSA’s Expertise:

  • Lean & Six Sigma Leadership: Many clients seek leaders with expertise in lean manufacturing and process optimization to enhance efficiency and reduce waste.
  • Cross-Functional Integration: A VP of Operations must bridge production, supply chain, and finance to ensure streamlined execution and profitability.
  • Hands-On Leadership: Unlike large corporations, mid-market businesses require leaders who are comfortable rolling up their sleeves and engaging directly with teams.
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Success Story: PSA placed a President for a growing private equity-backed specialty packaging business as part of a succession plan. The company needed a leader with Lean Six Sigma experience who could manage operations hands-on while driving strategic initiatives. The new President successfully optimized supply chain processes, built trust with employees, and implemented operational efficiencies that positioned the company for scalable growth.

Director of Engineering and Quality Leadership

Technical operational roles, such as Director of Engineering and Quality leadership, require specialized expertise and a strong focus on continuous improvement.

PSA’s Expertise:

  • Engineering Leadership: From R&D to plant operations, we find engineering leaders who balance technical innovation with practical execution.
  • Quality & Compliance: Many clients require leaders who can implement quality assurance initiatives, optimize processes, and ensure compliance with industry regulations.
  • Change Management: Implementing new quality or engineering initiatives requires a strong leader who.
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Success Story: PSA placed a Quality Director for a long-time client as part of the company’s strategic growth plan. This newly created role was designed to drive QA initiatives, optimize processes, and enhance customer satisfaction. The new hire successfully acted as a change agent, implementing improvements that reduced defects and streamlined operations.

Integrator (EOS) Leadership

For companies operating on the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS), finding the right Integrator is crucial. As a firm that has been using EOS since 2019, PSA is uniquely qualified to identify and place Integrators who can bring structure, accountability, and execution to Visionary-led organizations.

PSA’s Expertise:

  • EOS-Aligned Search: We understand the unique role of an Integrator in harmonizing a leadership team, driving operational efficiency, and ensuring strategic goals translate into results.
  • Leadership & Culture Fit: Integrators must be rational and disciplined, serving as the tie-breaker and glue for an organization. Our expertise helps companies find candidates who excel at providing clarity, communication, and consistency.
  • Scaling for Growth: Mid-sized businesses leveraging EOS need leaders who can translate vision into execution, manage priorities, and drive measurable business outcomes.
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Success Story: PSA placed a COO/Integrator for a rapidly growing manufacturer of finishing system components that had recently implemented EOS. The company needed an operational leader to bring structure, discipline, and accountability while integrating the leadership team’s vision. The Integrator played a pivotal role in streamlining operations, reducing inefficiencies, and fostering company-wide alignment, ultimately positioning the company for sustained growth.

Why PSA?

  • Industry-Specific Expertise: We understand the unique challenges of operations leadership in mid-market companies.
  • Proven Track Record: Our placements consistently drive measurable impact in efficiency, profitability, and strategic growth.
  • Tailored Search Approach: We go beyond traditional hiring methods to find operational leaders who align with your company’s needs and culture.

Whether you need a COO to drive transformation, a VP of Operations to optimize processes, or an Integrator to streamline your EOS-driven organization, PSA has the expertise to find the right fit. Contact us today to discuss how we can help build your operational leadership team.