JOBSEARCHER

Chief Information Officer

HirenexusChicago, ILMay 24th, 2026
Chief Information Officer About the CompanyThis is a well-established, PE-backed manufacturer and distributor with approximately $200M in revenue and a clear mandate to scale toward $400M through organic growth and acquisitions. With six operating locations and a growing footprint, the company is making focused investments in operational infrastructure and technology to support that trajectory.The IT function has historically been operationally focused. The incoming CIO inherits a capable team and a solid core system, and is charged with bringing strategic vision, modern practices, and customer-centric thinking to a function ready for its next chapter.This is not a seat-warming assignment. The right candidate will bring a point of view on how IT should serve the business, not just run it.Key ResponsibilitiesIT Strategy & GovernanceDevelop and implement a comprehensive IT strategy and long-term technology roadmap aligned with business growth initiatives.Ensure technology initiatives support revenue generation, customer experience, and operational excellence.Establish IT governance standards, performance metrics, and KPIs to improve accountability and visibility across the organization.Technology & Infrastructure ModernizationEvaluate current applications, platforms, and systems to identify modernization and replacement opportunities.Address enterprise-wide challenges related to data access, usability, and reporting effectiveness.Enhance cybersecurity practices and risk management capabilities in partnership with external consultants and internal stakeholders.Support scalable, cloud-oriented technology solutions that align with organizational needs and budget considerations.Mergers & Acquisitions IntegrationCreate and maintain a repeatable IT integration framework to support ongoing acquisition activity.Lead technology onboarding and systems integration for newly acquired locations and entities.Drive alignment of infrastructure, applications, and operational processes across expanding business units.Leadership & Talent DevelopmentManage and mentor a diverse IT team consisting of developers, infrastructure leadership, helpdesk personnel, and administrative staff.Promote a culture centered on collaboration, accountability, innovation, and continuous improvement.Act as a coach and mentor focused on developing team capability and long-term organizational strength.Executive & Business PartnershipPartner closely with executive leadership, including the CFO, CEO, EVP of Operations, and commercial teams.Translate business priorities into scalable and practical technology solutions.Communicate technical strategies and investment decisions effectively to non-technical stakeholders.Candidate QualificationsExperience & Background10–15 years of progressive IT leadership experience, including senior-level management responsibilities.Prior experience in private equity-backed organizations is highly preferred.Industry experience within manufacturing, industrial services, distribution, or related sectors is strongly valued.Demonstrated success building, restructuring, or transforming IT organizations lacking mature strategic direction.Experience supporting mergers and acquisitions, including systems consolidation and technology integration.Experience supporting multi-site and/or multi-state operations.Working knowledge of Oracle databases and environments is a plus.Strong understanding of cybersecurity principles, governance, and risk management best practices.Leadership AttributesStrategic, hands-on leader capable of balancing long-term planning with operational execution.Proven ability to lead organizational change and influence culture transformation.Strong communication and relationship-building skills with both technical and non-technical stakeholders.Passion for coaching, mentoring, and developing talent within evolving teams.Customer-focused mindset with the ability to leverage technology as a competitive business advantage.Technical ExpertiseExperience with NetSuite or comparable ERP systems, including implementation or migration projects.Cloud-first mindset with experience modernizing technology environments in resource-conscious settings.Familiarity with cybersecurity frameworks, compliance standards, and enterprise risk management.Preferred certifications include CISSP, PMP, ITIL, or equivalent credentials.