Chief Operating Officer

About the Organization

Johnstone Supply – The Balsan Group is a family-run HVAC/R wholesale distribution company and a member of the Johnstone Supply cooperative. It ranks among the largest and fastest-expanding distributors in the Northeast, with 22 branches across Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, New York, and Maryland.

The business is moving into a major growth stage centered on operational excellence, strategic acquisitions, opening new branches, and expanding into new markets. It is looking for a seasoned Chief Operating Officer to work closely with ownership and help guide the company’s continued momentum.

Role Overview

Reporting to the President, the COO will join the executive team and take ownership of operational performance across a multi-state distribution network. This leader will shape profitable growth, strengthen efficiency, improve inventory and sales outcomes, steer technology initiatives, and support the integration of future acquisitions.

The position is highly influential and will help build the systems and structure needed to sustain long-term expansion.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct daily operations across the company’s 22-location distribution footprint.
• Work alongside ownership and senior leadership to carry out strategic priorities.
• Create and roll out performance metrics for all major business functions.
• Improve sales results, operating efficiency, stock management, and customer experience.
• Partner with finance leadership to strengthen profitability and overall business performance.
• Coach and lead senior leaders in operations, sales, purchasing, IT, marketing, and human resources.
• Manage acquisition integration efforts and contribute to future branch openings.
• Spot and implement process upgrades and technology tools that improve scalability and efficiency.
• Review inventory approaches, procurement methods, and supplier relationships to align with business goals.
• Set consistent standards across all branches while encouraging accountability, teamwork, and ongoing improvement.
• Travel across the operating region to support branch leadership and operational excellence.

Required Experience and Qualifications

The ideal candidate brings at least 2 years of COO-level experience or comparable executive leadership background. Experience leading multiple functions in wholesale distribution, retail distribution, or a similar multi-site business is essential.

Strong financial understanding, including P&L ownership and operational budgeting, is required. The role also calls for a proven record of improving inventory management, sales operations, and broader organizational performance.

Hands-on experience with acquisition integrations, new location launches, ERP systems, technology rollouts, and process improvement work is important. Excellent leadership, communication, and change management capabilities are also expected.

Preferred Background

Experience in HVAC, industrial, electrical, plumbing, or building products distribution is preferred. Prior work in a privately held or family-owned business is also valued, along with a history of guiding organizations through growth and operational change.

Compensation and Benefits

• Strong bonus potential tied to performance
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Group life insurance
• Short-term and long-term disability coverage
• 401(k) plan with company match
• Paid time off and paid holidays

Location and Travel

This is a full-time onsite role based in Downingtown, Pennsylvania. The position requires approximately 25% travel across the Northeast.

Why This Opportunity Stands Out

This role offers a rare chance to join a stable, growth-focused company and help define its next phase. The COO will have direct influence over strategy, operations, acquisitions, technology, and organizational development while partnering closely with ownership to support long-term success.

The company’s culture is built around three values: Hungry, Humble, and Smart. Leaders are expected to be results-oriented, lead with humility and respect, and build strong relationships through communication, collaboration, and thoughtful decision-making.