Strategic COO: Scale Multi-Site Manufacturing & Growth

Next Play Jobs; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 250,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

Our client seeks a Chief Operating Officer to oversee end-to-end operations with a focus on profitability, excellence, and scalable growth. Lead and mentor VPs across Operations and Supply Chain, building strong teams and driving strategic initiatives across multiple sites.

The role requires an entrepreneurial, hands-on leader with deep knowledge of food manufacturing, packaging, and CPG trends, capable of translating strategy into disciplined execution across a growing network.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business Administration, or related field.
• Master’s degree or professional certification (e.g., CPM, CCIM) is preferred.
• 10+ years of progressive leadership experience in food manufacturing or contract manufacturing.
• Experience leading multi-site manufacturing operations.
• Experience scaling operations in a high-growth or private equity-backed environment.
• Strong technical background in packaging and packaging materials.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal skills, and executive presence.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop the VPs of Operations and Supply Chain to drive continuous improvement and YOY improved business results.
• Oversee enterprise collaboration with Finance, HR, Quality and other functional leaders.
• Drive culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence across all sites.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Operations management

Executive communication

Cross-functional leadership

Change management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or Business Administration

Master’s degree or professional certification (CPM, CCIM) preferred

Job description

Our client seeks a Chief Operating Officer to oversee end-to-end operations with a focus on profitability, excellence, and scalable growth. Lead and mentor VPs across Operations and Supply Chain, building strong teams and driving strategic initiatives across multiple sites.

The role requires an entrepreneurial, hands-on leader with deep knowledge of food manufacturing, packaging, and CPG trends, capable of translating strategy into disciplined execution across a growing network.