Executive Operations Leadership

Susan Graham Consulting; Is-sur-Tille; On-site; EUR 150,000 - 230,000; Full time

Job summary

Susan Graham Consulting seeks a Chief Operations Officer to lead procurement, warehousing, logistics and fulfillment, ensuring scalable operations that meet customer expectations. This executive role partners with senior leadership to drive performance and growth in a large distribution setting.

We require 10+ years in operations leadership and a proven track record in large-scale distribution, warehouse optimization, and regulatory compliance.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of progressive operations or distribution leadership experience.
• Minimum 5 years in senior management or executive oversight.
• Background in large-scale warehousing, logistics, or supply chain operations.
• Experience with labor management, recruiting, budgeting, and cost control.
• Working knowledge of regulatory and safety standards relevant to food or regulated goods distribution (e.g., HACCP, OSHA or equivalent).

Responsibilities

• Strategic & Executive Leadership across procurement, warehousing and transportation.
• Direct and integrate shipping, receiving, inventory management and fulfillment.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards and regulatory requirements.
• Develop and mentor operations teams and foster continuous improvement.
• Utilize data analytics to drive performance and optimize WMS.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Operational excellence

WMS experience

Data analysis

Food safety knowledge

Stakeholder management

Budgeting

Tools

WMS platforms

ERP systems

Job description

Chief Operations Officer

A large, privately held distribution organization is seeking a Chief Operations Officer to provide strategic and hands‑on leadership across procurement, warehousing, transportation, and fulfillment functions. This executive will partner closely with senior leadership and serve as a key driver of operational performance, scalability, and customer satisfaction.

Core Responsibilities

• Strategic & Executive Leadership
  • Establish long‑term operational objectives aligned with overall business goals.
  • Develop and execute multi‑year operational strategy and annual performance plans.
  • Collaborate with executive leadership on enterprise initiatives and growth planning.
• Operations & Logistics Oversight
  • Direct and integrate shipping, receiving, transportation, purchasing, and inventory management functions.
  • Optimize workflows and cross‑functional coordination to improve efficiency and service levels.
  • Oversee high‑volume distribution center performance, productivity, and cost controls.
• Compliance, Safety & Food Standards
  • Ensure adherence to food safety practices, quality standards, and regulatory requirements.
  • Maintain safe and secure facilities through enforcement of safety programs and ergonomic best practices.
  • Guide management teams in compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.
• People Leadership & Culture
  • Lead, mentor, and develop operations management teams.
  • Delegate authority effectively while maintaining accountability for results.
  • Implement performance management processes including coaching, corrective action, and training initiatives.
  • Foster a collaborative, team‑oriented culture focused on continuous improvement.
• Continuous Improvement & Systems
  • Identify operational efficiencies, process improvements, and technology enhancements.
  • Utilize data analytics and reporting tools to support decision‑making.
  • Oversee and optimize Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) and related operational software.
• Vendor & Capital Management
  • Partner with external vendors and service providers on contracts, capital projects, and equipment procurement.
  • Participate in industry forums and professional networks to remain current on best practices and innovation.

Required Skills & Competencies

• Demonstrated natural leadership and team‑building ability.
• Strong knowledge of food safety, quality assurance, and audit processes.
• Hands‑on experience with WMS platforms and enterprise operational software.
• Advanced analytical, organizational, and problem‑solving skills.
• High attention to detail with strong data management capabilities.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Proficiency in common business software applications.
• Ability to build effective relationships across all organizational levels and with external partners.

Qualifications & Experience

• 10+ years of progressive operations or distribution leadership experience.
• Minimum 5 years in senior management or executive‑level oversight.
• Background in large‑scale warehousing, logistics, or supply chain operations.
• Experience with labor management, recruiting, budgeting, and cost control.
• Working knowledge of regulatory and safety standards relevant to food or regulated goods distribution (e.g., HACCP, OSHA or equivalent).