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About our client

Our client is a PE-backed holding company active in the B2B enterprise software space. The holding oversees multiple stand-alone software businesses and follows a hands-on, value-creation-driven ownership approach. As part of its platform development, the group is preparing for the addition of a further software business that is expected to require significant operational restructuring. The responsibility lies with the newly added business, where hands-on leadership, stabilization, and execution will be critical. The role is based in North Rhine-Westphalia region and requires a strong on-site presence, particularly during the initial months. 

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What the job involves

• Serve as Chief Restructuring & Operating Officer (CRO / COO) and Managing Director of a newly added and carved-out software entity
• Take full end-to-end responsibility for carve-out, stand-alone setup and restructuring
• Lead operational turnaround of a mid-sized software business 
• Establish full P&L ownership, accountability and operating discipline
• Design and execute a comprehensive restructuring program, including cost base, organization, governance and delivery setup
• Drive a significant headcount reduction and organizational redesign in a structured, compliant and decisive manner
• Implement robust KPI systems, tracking, and transparency and translate insights into concrete operational actions
• Radically improve delivery efficiency, project economics and margin performance in a software environment
• Combine strategic plan co-creation with very hands-on, day-to-day execution on site
• Work closely as part of a two-person senior leadership core team (CRO / COO together with a Managing Director for Sales & Product)
• Act as the clear operational authority where required, enforcing accountability and driving decisive actions

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Who we are looking for

• University degree in business administration, finance, economics, or a related field
• Several years of senior leadership experience in software, IT, or technology-driven businesses, ideally within investor-backed and/or mid-sized organizations
• Experience working with SAP product organizations and product-centric operating models is advantageous
• Background in a top-tier consulting firm is a plus, followed by senior operational roles
• Proven track record in carve-outs, post-merger integrations and hard restructuring situations
• Self-sufficient, independent operator who does not rely on large support structures
• Comfortable taking and executing challenging, unpopular decisions with the ability to communicate clearly and translate targets into actionable results
• Resilient, thick-skinned, and credible in turnaround and transformation contexts
• Strong ability to translate KPIs, targets and plans into measurable operational results
• Hands-on experience with budgeting, forecasting and liquidity management (P&L, cash flow etc.) is required
• Pragmatic leadership style with clarity, authority and pace
• Fluent German and English required