Operating Associate/Director – Value Creation Program – WeShip Express

Description: Clarendon Capital, a leading middle market private equity firm focused in the logistics, transportation, and distribution sectors, is seeking an Operating Associate/Director to join a portfolio company. The Operating Associate/Director will work closely with the company’s senior management, Clarendon’s Operating Partner and Investment team to drive operational improvements and value creation initiatives.

The role provides exposure to financial analysis, process improvement, margin optimization, strategic planning, and operational value creation. As part of the team, you will have the unique opportunity to work alongside senior management to solve operational challenges, implement cross functional best practices, and execute growth initiatives to drive a successful investment outcome for its private equity and management shareholders.

Company Overview: WeShip Express (www.weshipexpress.com) is a market leader in direct-to-consumer eCommerce logistics and compliance services for wine, beer, and spirits. The company provides an integrated suite of fulfillment, shipping, and compliance solutions to wineries and retailers selling through direct-to-consumer channels. Clarendon Capital partnered with WeShip’s founder and management team to build on its market leading foundation by accelerating investments in organic growth initiatives and execute a strategic buy and build strategy.

Clarendon Capital Overview: Clarendon Capital (www.clarendoncap.com) is a middle market private equity firm that is focused on investing capital in companies connected to the transportation, logistics, and distribution sectors. The firm partners with management teams and provides capital to accelerate growth, fund acquisitions, and generate shareholder liquidity. The Clarendon team has established a strong reputation over the last two decades in the market space.

Value Creation Program Overview: The Value Creation Program is a dynamic 2-4 year development program designed for early-stage professionals (2-7 years of experience) from banking, consulting, private equity, or corporate backgrounds seeking to make a meaningful impact at companies within Clarendon Capital’s investment portfolio. Participants will be immersed in a hands-on, fast-paced environment where they will work directly with Clarendon’s portfolio company senior management, Operating Partners and Investment Team to drive strategic cross-functional value creation initiatives within select Clarendon portfolio companies. The program is rigorous, and expectations are high; success will depend on each individual’s adaptability and contribution. The program offers deep exposure to operational optimization and value creation efforts, providing participants with the skills and experience to shape the future of high-growth businesses.

As part of the Value Creation Program, Operating Associates/Directors will act as “boots on the ground” collaborators, leveraging their problem-solving abilities and adaptability to take on a wide variety of tasks across various functional areas based on specific portfolio company needs to assist in the execution of value creation initiatives. The program is designed to develop a diverse skill set and prepare participants for leadership roles, offering a significant opportunity to make a meaningful impact while gaining extensive exposure to business growth and transformation.

Upon successful completion of the Value Creation Program, participants who demonstrate strong performance could have the opportunity to transition into a full-time role, either within Clarendon Capital’s Operations or Investment team, or at one of its portfolio companies. Participants will have the opportunity to take on greater responsibilities, further their professional development, and make a meaningful impact in a dynamic, high-growth environment. This progression is designed to support the development and retention of top talent within the Clarendon network, fostering long-term success for both the individual and the firm.

For more information about Clarendon Capital, please visit our website at www.clarendoncap.com.

Qualifications:

• 2-7 years of experience in industry (preferably transportation and logistics) or management consulting engaged in projects related to: financial planning & analysis, operations, corporate strategy or related roles.
• Strong analytical capabilities with experience in operations/process improvement, acquisition integration, cash flow analysis and margin optimization.
• Experience with data analysis tools (Tableau, SQL, Python) and financial modeling.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and handle multiple priorities.
• Strong written communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a lean management team environment.
• A demonstrated interest in operations, strategic decision-making, and value creation in middle-market private equity-owned businesses.
• Preferred undergraduate degrees include: Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, Engineering, Operations Research, Economics, or related field.

What We Offer:

• An immersive, hands-on role that provides direct experience working with a portfolio company management team to drive operational improvements.
• Opportunities to develop skills in financial analysis, strategic planning, and value creation methodologies.
• A dynamic and supportive learning environment at WeShip Express with mentorship from Clarendon’s Operating Partner and Investment Team.
• Distinctive opportunity to join the private equity firm’s team or another portfolio company after their program has concluded.

Responsibilities:

• Using your problem-solving skills and flexibility to get things done across a wide range of tasks, from supporting daily operations to complex projects.
• Help manage financial performance, develop and track KPIs, and contribute to budgeting and reporting efforts to optimize growth and profitability.
• Support due diligence efforts by conducting operational assessments of potential acquisition targets, developing integration plans and executing post-acquisition plans.
• Work with executives to identify and implement efficiency improvements across key functions, ensuring measurable results.
• Participate in executive meetings, providing actionable insights and recommendations to support long-term business strategies.