Brian O’Rourke
Seasoned Fire Protection Executive with 35 years of experience, recognized for exceptional leadership and industry expertise. Adept at steering sales, service, and installation operations within the fire alarm, fire sprinkler, and fire suppression sectors. Demonstrated success in enhancing revenue, optimizing operational efficiency, and cultivating robust relationships with employees, customers, vendors and colleagues. Known for technical proficiency across a wide array of fire protection systems and a strategic approach to complex operational and sales planning. Proven track record of driving growth, improving customer retention and satisfaction, and aligning organizational goals with sustainable success.
KEY COMPETENCIES
- Strategic Leadership
- Operational Excellence
- Technical Expertise
- Sales & Business Development
- Training & Development
- Customer & Vendor Relations
- Technology Integrations
- Service Trade
2022 – Present
Universal Fire Protection, Philadelphia, PA
General Manager
- Achieved 110% business growth within the first year through targeted strategic initiatives and operational improvements.
- Recruited and onboarded skilled technicians to meet increased service demand and improve efficiency.
- Expanded service offerings by acquiring the Ansul product line, enhancing customer value and competitive edge.
- Optimized profitability by negotiating vendor agreements to secure a 25%+ reduction in parts costs.
- Developed and implemented comprehensive safety protocols, achieving zero worker’s compensation claims, prioritizing employee well-being and ensuring operational excellence.
- Integrated advanced field management software (Service Trade), transitioning from paper-based systems to tablets with full integration across dispatch, field technicians, finance and ownership within 90 days of procurement, resulting in additional $1M in additional services quoted.
- Doubled company sales and tripled EBITDA, with projections to double again.
2017-2022
Impact Fire Services, Hudson, NH
Business Development Manager
- Drove significant business growth and profitability through innovative business development strategies.
- Established a multi-state in-house recharge facility, increasing operational efficiency and resource utilization.
- Enhanced technician productivity by over 20% through process improvements and performance management.
- Managed complex supply chain challenges, securing necessary parts and ensuring project completion by exceeding EBITDA targets by $800K.
- Facilitated smooth integration of new acquisitions, enhancing team cohesion and operational continuity.
- Improved sales performance through effective training, system implementation, and motivational leadership.
- Established a dynamic work culture that prioritizes both employee and customer satisfaction, leading to enhanced morale and an improved overall experience.
- Built strong OEM relationships, driving equipment sales, profitability and expanding market presence.
- An inspirational speaker adept at articulating the company’s vision, driving enthusiasm, and facilitating positive outcomes.
2015-2017
Tri State Fire Protection, Hudson, NH
Operations Manager
- Implemented industry best practices to consistently deliver exceptional service and achieve a 98% customer satisfaction rate.
- Drove consistent double-digit growth and maintained robust gross margins between 50-60%.
- Member of the senior team responsible for driving business expansion and profitability, resulting in a fourfold increase in revenue and margin dollars.
- Developed a positive organizational culture
1996-2014
Simplex Grinnell, Westminster, MA
National Suppression Operations Manager, Corporate Suppression Trainer, Division Manager
- Led a team responsible for daily operations across 110 fire suppression offices in North America, driving sales growth from $80 million to $175 million
- Secured major national accounts such as Walmart and The Home Depot, driving significant revenue growth.
- Developed and implemented nationwide training programs for the company's emergency lighting business, resulting in a 20% growth year-over-year.
- Designed and launched a new deficiency program, achieving a 60% increase in closure rates.
- Enhanced consistency in service offerings by centralizing operations, reducing manpower requirements, and designing a standardized deficiency reporting and sales program.
- Established best practices across all product lines and locations, optimizing performance and operational consistency.
