Interim Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Location: Chicago, IL or Atlanta, GA preferred
Position Type: Interim / Contract Executive Leadership
Overview
Our client is seeking an Interim Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to provide leadership during an executive transition period. This role will ensure continuity of leadership while helping position the organization for its next phase of growth. The Interim CEO will work closely with the executive team to maintain operational momentum, strengthen commercial strategy, and help drive business development while the search for a permanent CEO continues. The company operates in a fast-paced, creative, and service-oriented environment focused on delivering renovation and design solutions for hospitality and commercial spaces.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide executive leadership during the CEO transition period to ensure business continuity.
- Partner with the current leadership team during a brief transition period to maintain operational stability.
- Drive revenue growth and business development through direct engagement with customers and partners.
- Strengthen and formalize the organization's sales strategy and go-to-market approach.
- Support improvements in business systems, reporting infrastructure, and operational processes.
- Collaborate with the executive team to support ongoing system and operational improvements.
- Lead and motivate a creative and service-driven workforce.
Industry Focus
The organization specializes in commercial renovation and restoration projects, including hospitality and event spaces such as:
- Restaurants
- Hotels
- Ballrooms and event venues
- Services include design services and FF&E (Furniture, Fixtures & Equipment) as part of renovation and refresh projects.
Qualifications
- Experience serving as a CEO, President, or senior executive leader.
- Strong background in sales leadership, business development, or commercial strategy.
- Experience in industries such as:
- Hospitality
- Commercial construction or renovation
- Design-build environments
- Interior design or hospitality services
- Proven ability to scale organizations and drive revenue growth.
- Experience working with private equity–backed or growth-oriented companies preferred.
- Strong leadership and communication skills with the ability to guide organizations through periods of transition.
Work Environment
Preferred location is Chicago, IL or Atlanta, GA, with full-time in-office presence strongly preferred to support leadership visibility and organizational culture.
