Chief Operating Officer - Construction

Employment Resource Group; Onalaska (WI); On-site; USD 150,000 - 250,000; Full time

Job summary

Employment Resource Group is seeking a Chief Operating Officer (COO) to lead operational excellence and strategic execution in Onalaska, Wisconsin. The COO will collaborate with executive leadership to translate strategic vision into scalable processes and measurable business outcomes.

The ideal candidate will have 20+ years of progressive experience in construction project management, exemplary leadership skills, and a proven ability to drive operational excellence. Strong problem-solving and communication skills are essential for this pivotal role.

Qualifications

• 20+ years of experience in construction project management or operations leadership.
• 10 years of leading senior leaders and multiple departments.
• Deep understanding of construction processes and industry best practices.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with leadership to define and execute strategic goals.
• Ensure alignment with schedules, budgets, and quality standards.
• Optimize procurement and supply chain strategies.

Skills

Construction project management

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Communication

Tools

Microsoft Office suite

Construction management software

Job description

Overview

The Chief Operating Officer (COO) serves as a key member of the executive leadership team, responsible for driving enterprise-wide operational excellence, strategic execution, and organizational alignment. This role provides leadership across all operational functions, ensuring projects are delivered efficiently, safely, and at the highest standards of quality and client satisfaction. The COO partners closely with executive leadership to translate strategic vision into scalable processes, sustainable growth, and measurable business outcomes.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with executive leadership to define and execute company-wide strategic goals, translating vision into actionable operational initiatives.
• Provide executive oversight across design, preconstruction, project management, and field operations to ensure alignment with schedules, budgets, and quality standards.
• Develop and implement scalable operational strategies, infrastructure, and processes that enhance efficiency, productivity, and profitability.
• Drive accountability through performance metrics and key operational KPIs across all departments.
• Standardize, document, and ensure consistent adherence to core operational processes across the organization.
• Serve as a strategic advisor and problem solver, providing guidance on complex business challenges and decision-making.
• Lead, mentor, and develop senior operational leaders, ensuring strong succession planning and organizational depth.
• Foster a collaborative culture focused on continuous improvement, professional development, and operational excellence.
• Oversee resource allocation and utilization to optimize efficiency across departments.
• Partner with leadership to evaluate, select, and implement technologies that improve operational performance.
• Act as the primary liaison between executive leadership and operational departments.
• Optimize procurement and supply chain strategies to support project execution and cost efficiency.
• Oversee capital planning and operational investment strategies in partnership with executive leadership.
• Champion a culture of safety, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and internal policies.
• Establish and enforce quality control standards and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Ensure compliance with all legal, regulatory, and operational requirements.
• Identify enterprise risks and implement proactive mitigation strategies across operational functions.
• Collaborate with legal and risk management resources to review and negotiate contracts and agreements.
• Support insurance and risk management planning in partnership with finance leadership.
• Contribute to business development efforts, including brand elevation, lead generation, and client presentations.
• Partner with executive leadership to drive market expansion, growth strategy, and long-term business development initiatives.
• Monitor and ensure high levels of customer satisfaction across all operational activities.

Qualifications

• 20+ years of progressive experience in construction project management or operations leadership, including at least 10 years leading senior leaders and multiple departments
• Deep understanding of construction processes, building codes, safety regulations, and industry best practices
• Proven ability to lead complex organizations and drive operational excellence at scale
• Strong strategic thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making capabilities
• Exceptional leadership and organizational skills with the ability to influence at the executive level
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills across cross-functional teams
• Demonstrated ability to mentor, develop, and retain high-performing leadership teams
• Ability to operate independently with strong planning and execution discipline
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite
• Experience with construction management software, scheduling tools, and construction accounting systems