Job: Chief Operating Officer (manufacturing)

Company Description

Our client is an established manufacturer of low volume and highly customized equipment. Their vision is to bring to life unique, high-quality products that stand out in the marketplace. Joining this organization means becoming part of a distinctive culture focused on innovation and excellence.

Objective of the Role

The Chief Operating Officer (COO) will be responsible for ensuring that every aspect of the unique manufacturing process is executed flawlessly. The COO’s key areas of responsibility include production planning, inventory management, production management, office and building management, and human resources. This role is integral to the seamless integration and execution of production-related activities, from HR to product delivery, ensuring that all operations align with the company’s high standards and strategic goals.

Ideal Profile

The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in manufacturing with extensive experience in managing low-volume, highly customized production environments. They will have a proven track record of strategic leadership, financial planning, and team development. The candidate should be skilled in using ERP systems, particularly Netsuite or equivalent, and have a deep understanding of industry-specific risk management, compliance, and regulatory requirements. An MBA and a minimum of 10 years of management experience are preferred.

Responsibilities

• Plan all production activities in advance, considering all potential risks and using data-driven decision-making processes.
• Oversee all aspects of inventory management, ensuring timely support for production while adhering to financial targets.
• Develop and execute production flows with a focus on quality and timely delivery.
• Create and communicate key performance indicators (KPIs) related to all production elements, ensuring alignment across the organization.
• Recruit, build, and motivate a strong management team to foster a culture of excellence and achieve organizational objectives.
• Ensure efficient deployment of labor, maintaining a lean management structure with skilled leaders and craftspeople.
• Act as a strategic partner within the leadership team, ensuring performance expectations are met.
• Coach and develop the team to deliver on key business metrics and drive continuous improvement in quality, efficiency, and productivity.
• Collaborate to develop and improve systems, processes, controls, and procedures to enhance overall efficiency and product quality.
• Provide accurate and timely reports on the company’s operating conditions.
• Manage the Human Resources function, including benefits, payroll, recruitment, learning and development, performance management, and succession planning.
• Lead and develop teams across multiple locations and functions, ensuring effective mentoring and collaboration.
• Represent the company with clients, investors, and business partners, fostering successful, long-term relationships.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years of experience with Netsuite or equivalent ERP systems.
• Ability to scale and grow with a company experiencing double-digit annual growth in production.
• Strong corporate management skills with experience in financial planning and strategy.
• Expertise in process improvement, forecasting, and budgeting.
• Bachelor’s degree in business or manufacturing; MBA strongly preferred.
• Minimum of 10 years of management experience.
• In-depth understanding of the manufacturing industry, including risk management, compliance, and regulatory requirements.
• Extensive knowledge of accounting principles, including budgeting, balance sheets, income statements, cash flow, and capital planning management.
• Demonstrated strategic leadership ability and a commitment to fostering a success-oriented, accountable environment within the company.