Chief Operating Officer (COO)

Placements24; Windsor Park (TN); Hybrid; USD 72,000 - 126,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive compensation package

Executive health, dental, and vision

Equity options

Relocation assistance and housing

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Chief Operating Officer to drive operational excellence across a large automotive manufacturing group. The role will oversee production, supply chain, quality and HR, working closely with the CEO to align operations with strategic goals.

The ideal candidate has 15+ years in operations within manufacturing, with 7+ years in senior leadership, and a proven track record in lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and ERP/MES implementations.

Qualifications

• 15+ years of progressive experience in operations management.
• At least 7 years in a senior executive leadership role within manufacturing.
• Experience managing large-scale manufacturing operations and complex supply chains.
• Strong understanding of lean principles and quality management systems.
• Experience with ERP/MES implementations and management.
• Ability to work in a hybrid environment with on-site leadership and strategic planning.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations across production, supply chain, quality, and HR.
• Develop and implement operational strategies aligned with long-term growth.
• Lead and mentor executive teams to foster high performance.
• Manage budgets, capex, and resource allocation.
• Drive lean initiatives and continuous improvement.
• Ensure compliance with safety, regulatory, and environmental standards.
• Collaborate with CEO and executives on strategic planning and risk management.
• Represent the company in external engagements.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Decision making

Stakeholder management

ERP experience

MES experience

Lean manufacturing

Six Sigma

Education

Master's degree in Business Administration, Engineering, Operations Management, or related field

Tools

ERP systems

MES systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic and rapidly growing automotive manufacturing group with its primary operations based in East London, Eastern Cape, is seeking a highly experienced and results-oriented Chief Operating Officer (COO). This executive position is critical to driving operational excellence, optimizing manufacturing processes, and ensuring the efficient and profitable execution of the company's business strategy. The COO will oversee all day-to-day operations, from production and supply chain to quality control and human resources, working closely with the CEO and executive team to achieve strategic objectives. This hybrid role offers a blend of on-site leadership and strategic remote planning, ensuring comprehensive oversight. The successful candidate will be a visionary leader with a proven track record in managing complex industrial operations and fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage all daily operations of the company, ensuring efficiency, quality, and profitability across all departments.
• Develop and implement operational strategies, policies, and procedures to align with the company's long-term vision and growth objectives.
• Lead and mentor executive-level management teams, fostering a high-performance culture and driving accountability.
• Manage the company's operational budget, capital expenditure, and resource allocation effectively.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives across all operational areas, focusing on lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other best practices.
• Ensure compliance with all industry regulations, safety standards, and environmental policies.
• Oversee the supply chain, production, quality assurance, and human resources functions.
• Collaborate with the CEO and other executives on strategic planning, business development, and risk management.
• Represent the company in external engagements with stakeholders, partners, and regulatory bodies.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Business Administration, Engineering, Operations Management, or a related field.
• 15+ years of progressive experience in operations management, with at least 7 years in a senior executive leadership role (e.g., COO, VP Operations) within the manufacturing sector.
• Proven track record of successfully managing large-scale manufacturing operations and complex supply chains.
• Deep understanding of automotive manufacturing processes, lean principles, and quality management systems.
• Exceptional leadership, strategic thinking, and decision-making skills.
• Strong financial acumen and experience in managing operational budgets and P&Ls.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management abilities.
• Experience with implementing and managing enterprise-wide operational systems (ERP, MES).
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment, balancing on-site presence with strategic remote planning.

Benefits

• Top-tier executive compensation package including a highly competitive base salary and significant performance bonuses.
• Comprehensive executive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Participation in the company's long-term incentive plan and equity options.
• Executive vehicle and chauffeur services.
• Opportunities for global business travel and professional development.
• Relocation assistance and executive housing support.
• Access to state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities.