Chief Operating Officer (COO)
About Johnstone Supply – The Balsan Group
Johnstone Supply – The Balsan Group is one of the largest and fastest-growing HVAC/R wholesale distribution organizations in the Northeast. As a family-owned business and member of the Johnstone Supply cooperative, we operate 22 locations across Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, New York, and Maryland.
The company is entering an exciting phase of growth focused on operational excellence, strategic acquisitions, new branch development, and market expansion. We are seeking an experienced Chief Operating Officer to partner directly with ownership and help drive the organization’s continued success.
The Opportunity
Reporting directly to the President, the COO will serve as a key member of the executive leadership team and oversee the operational performance of a multi-state distribution organization.
This individual will be responsible for driving profitable growth, improving organizational effectiveness, enhancing inventory and sales performance, leading technology initiatives, and integrating future acquisitions. The successful candidate will have a significant impact on the future direction of the company while helping build the infrastructure necessary to support continued expansion.
Key Responsibilities-
Lead day-to-day operations across a 22-location distribution network.
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Partner with ownership and executive leadership to execute the company’s strategic initiatives.
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Develop and implement key performance indicators (KPIs) across all functional areas.
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Drive sales growth, operational efficiency, inventory optimization, and customer satisfaction.
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Collaborate with finance leadership to improve profitability and operational performance.
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Lead and develop senior leaders across operations, sales, purchasing, IT, marketing, and human resources.
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Oversee acquisition integrations and support future branch expansion initiatives.
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Identify and implement process improvements and technology solutions that increase organizational efficiency and scalability.
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Evaluate inventory strategies, procurement processes, and vendor partnerships to support business objectives.
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Establish best practices across all locations while promoting accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
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Travel throughout the company’s operating footprint to support branch leadership and operational excellence.
Required Qualifications-
Minimum of two years of Chief Operating Officer experience or equivalent executive leadership experience.
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Experience leading multiple departments within a wholesale distribution, retail distribution, or related multi-site organization.
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Strong financial acumen, including P&L management and operational budgeting.
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Proven success leading inventory management, sales operations, and organizational performance initiatives.
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Demonstrated experience integrating acquisitions and opening new locations.
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Experience implementing technology solutions, ERP systems, and process improvement initiatives.
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Strong leadership, communication, and change management skills.
Preferred Qualifications-
HVAC, industrial, electrical, plumbing, or building products distribution experience.
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Experience in privately held or family-owned organizations.
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Track record of leading organizations through periods of growth and operational transformation.
Compensation & Benefits-
Significant performance-based bonus opportunity
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Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
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Group Life Insurance
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Short-Term and Long-Term Disability
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401(k) with Company Match
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Paid Time Off and Paid Holidays
Location & Travel-
Full-time, onsite position based in Downingtown, Pennsylvania
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Approximately 25% travel throughout the Northeast region
Why This Role?
This is a rare opportunity to join a financially stable, growth-oriented organization and help shape its next chapter. The successful candidate will have direct influence on strategy, operations, acquisitions, technology, and organizational development while partnering closely with ownership to drive long-term success.
At Johnstone Supply – The Balsan Group, our culture is built around three core values:
Hungry, Humble, and Smart. We value leaders who are driven to achieve results, lead with humility and respect, and build strong relationships through effective communication, collaboration, and sound decision-making.
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