President

Role overview

We are seeking a President to lead the Automation & Intelligence division of a national water and utility infrastructure group backed by a large multi-billion-dollar parent company. The division specializes in automation, controls, systems integration, and engineered solutions for water and wastewater customers. It has expanded rapidly through acquisitions and now needs a leader who can unify the business, strengthen execution, and guide the next stage of growth.

This is a senior leadership appointment with full profit-and-loss accountability. The division generates around $100 million in annual revenue, employs roughly 300 people, and has eight direct reports. The role reports to the CEO and is supported at the highest level of the wider organization.

Location preference is Atlanta or Norcross, Georgia. Relocation within the US can be supported. The position involves extensive travel and requires a strong on-site presence, especially during the early phase.

What you will do

• Bring acquired businesses together under one operating model and establish a consistent way of working across regions.
• Strengthen manufacturing and operational performance while evaluating the multi-site operating footprint.
• Develop the leadership bench and create clear expectations around performance, ownership, and accountability.
• Steer the division back to plan and create the foundation for long-term, profitable growth.
• Partner closely with the commercial team and support future acquisitions as well as their integration.

Experience and background

The ideal candidate has led profit and loss responsibility for a business or division of similar scale, or close to it. You should have a strong record of improving performance in an industrial, manufacturing, or engineered-systems environment, including in turnaround or restructuring contexts.

Experience with acquisition integration and multi-site consolidation is important. A background in water, utilities, or broader industrial infrastructure is preferred, though candidates from adjacent sectors may also be considered.

This role suits a hands-on leader who can combine operational credibility with the ability to bring people together and align the organization. It is not a ceremonial position. A willingness to travel frequently and maintain high visibility across sites is essential, particularly at the outset.

Preferred exposure

Familiarity with automation, controls, SCADA, or systems-integration businesses would be beneficial, although deep technical depth is not required because an experienced technical team is already in place. Experience in a private equity-backed or transformation-focused environment would also be an advantage.

Compensation and relocation

The base salary range is approximately $235,000 to $275,000. The package also includes a performance bonus of 30% to 40%, equity participation, and relocation assistance where needed.

Additional information

This search is being conducted on a retained basis by The Sterling Choice.

Equal opportunity statement

The employer follows an equal opportunity approach and considers all qualified candidates without discrimination based on race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status.