John Cupp - Principal

I'm John Cupp, a strategic and execution-focused C-level executive known for transforming underperforming operations into high-growth platforms across manufacturing, supply chain, and industrial services. With a foundation in Mechanical Engineering (BS) from Kettering University and an MBA from Western Michigan University, I bring a unique balance of technical expertise, business acumen, and global leadership.

Over the course of my career, I've successfully led businesses through growth, restructuring, and startup phases, generating double-digit improvements in EBITDA, scaling new ventures, and stabilizing distressed operations.

• Transformational Leadership
  Proven track record leading cross-functional and cross-cultural teams in turnaround, startup, and high-growth environments—both domestically and internationally.
   
• Strategic Vision & Execution
  Led strategy and operations for $100M+ portfolios across Fortune 500 manufacturers, Tier-1 automotive suppliers, and private equity-backed ventures.
   
• Operational Mastery
  Built and scaled complex operations including a $46M steel fabrication facility using Lean Manufacturing, achieving significant throughput and profitability gains.
   
• Innovation & Market Expansion
  Launched and grew new service and manufacturing businesses in North America and abroad, including a 75% revenue increase in a quality services firm within 24 months.
   
• Financial & P&L Oversight
  Managed full P&L responsibility for single-site and multi-site portfolios ranging from $10M to over $100M, improving financial transparency and cost structures.
   

• Growth & Turnaround Expert:
  Successfully stabilized and scaled operations in automotive, heavy-duty truck, aerospace, and industrial manufacturing sectors.
   
• Startup and Restructuring Leader:
  Spearheaded multiple greenfield and brownfield projects, from planning and capital acquisition to full operational launch.
   
• Global Business Strategist:
  Developed and led international expansion and customer engagement strategies, forming lasting relationships in key global markets.
   
• People-Focused Culture Builder:
  Committed to building high-performance teams, fostering leadership development, and instilling continuous improvement across the organization.
   

I work best in collaboration with private equity sponsors, mid-market manufacturers, and industrial services firms seeking operational leadership in complex or transitional environments. I bring value in the form of:

• Interim or permanent executive leadership (CEO, COO, VP Ops)
   
• Operational due diligence and post-close execution
   
• Facility turnarounds and Lean transformations
   
• International expansion or reshoring initiatives
   

Whether you're scaling a portfolio company, launching a new venture, or turning around an asset in need of direction, I bring the experience, insight, and urgency required to deliver measurable outcomes.

📩 Let's discuss how we can build momentum—together.