At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead daily operations, drive transformation, and optimise processes for growth.
- Company: Fast-growing tech business in retail and B2B services.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and executive leadership opportunities.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team focused on innovation and collaboration.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on operational transformation and international expansion.
- Qualifications: Proven COO experience in high-growth environments and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 100000 - 110000 £ per year.
Location: Wokingham
Salary: £100,000 - £110,000
About Us
We are partnering with a fast-growing, technology-led business operating within the retail and B2B services sector, currently undergoing significant operational transformation and international growth. Following a period of sustained expansion, the business has consolidated multiple operating entities into a unified group structure and is now entering the next phase of its evolution. With a major ERP transformation underway, international expansion plans across Europe, Australia and the US, and ongoing acquisition activity, the organisation is investing heavily in operational scalability, governance and customer delivery excellence. The business operates in a fast-paced, high-growth environment, supporting globally recognised brands and retail partners through a combination of technology, operational services and strategic partnerships.
As part of its continued growth journey, the business is now seeking an experienced Chief Operating Officer (COO) to join the executive leadership team and play a critical role in scaling operations, driving transformation and building the operational infrastructure required for long-term growth.
Job Description
Reporting directly to the Group CEO, the Chief Operating Officer (COO) will oversee day-to-day business operations while leading operational transformation, process optimisation and strategic delivery across the organisation. This role will be responsible for ensuring operational efficiency, customer onboarding excellence, service delivery performance and cross-functional alignment across operations, onboarding/client services and project delivery functions. The COO will work closely with the executive leadership team to implement business strategy, improve operational maturity and support the organisation through its next stage of growth and international expansion. This is a highly visible executive leadership position suited to an operationally focused leader who thrives in scale-up and transformation environments.
Key Responsibilities
- Operational Leadership
- Lead and oversee day-to-day operational performance across the business
- Drive operational efficiency, scalability and continuous improvement initiatives
- Ensure customer SLA performance across fulfilment, delivery and operational services
- Oversee inventory management, stock control and supply chain performance
- Develop and implement operational frameworks, governance and reporting structures
- Support the rollout of future operational services and capabilities
- Customer Onboarding & Client Services
- Oversee customer onboarding processes to ensure seamless client experiences
- Improve onboarding efficiency, customer journey and service delivery processes
- Lead support strategy development across multiple customer sectors
- Drive optimisation of operational workflows and service processes
- Project & Transformation Leadership
- Oversee delivery of operational and strategic transformation projects
- Ensure projects are delivered on time, within scope and aligned to business objectives
- Implement structured project governance and accountability frameworks
- Support ongoing ERP development, optimisation and associated operational programmes
- Strategic Growth & Partnerships
- Build and maintain strong relationships with strategic partners and stakeholders
- Support operational readiness for international growth and market expansion
- Collaborate with leadership teams across sales, technology, product and finance
- Identify opportunities to improve operational scalability and customer experience
- Leadership & Culture
- Lead, mentor and develop high-performing operational teams
- Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration and continuous improvement
- Act as a key member of the executive leadership team
- Represent the business externally with clients, partners and industry stakeholders
Requirements
- Proven experience operating as a COO, Operations Director or senior operational leader within a high-growth business
- Strong track record of scaling operational teams and improving operational performance
- Experience leading operational transformation, process optimisation and business change initiatives
- Strong understanding of B2B operations, customer onboarding and service delivery environments
- Experience overseeing cross-functional operational teams
- Ability to operate effectively within fast-paced, evolving and entrepreneurial environments
- Strong commercial awareness and strategic thinking capabilities
- Excellent stakeholder management and leadership skills
- Experience working alongside executive leadership teams
- Exposure to ERP transformation, operational systems implementation or large-scale change programmes is highly desirable
- International operations or multi-market experience would be advantageous
Benefits
- Executive leadership opportunity within a high-growth business
- Opportunity to play a key role in operational transformation and international expansion
- High-impact position with direct influence on business strategy and operational direction
- Collaborative and entrepreneurial leadership environment
- Competitive executive salary package
- Hybrid working flexibility following initial onboarding period
Other
- Location: Wokingham, Berkshire
- Working Pattern: Primarily onsite (4 days per week expected)
- Reporting To: Group CEO
- Direct Reports: Head of Operations, Head of Onboarding & Client Services, Project Manager
This is an excellent opportunity for an operational leader looking to make a tangible impact within a scaling, transformation-focused business entering an exciting new phase of growth.
Chief Operating Officer (Ref: 196617) in Reading employer: Forsyth Barnes
Join a dynamic and fast-growing technology-led business in Wokingham, where you will have the opportunity to lead operational transformation and drive international expansion as the Chief Operating Officer. With a strong focus on employee growth, a collaborative culture, and a competitive executive salary package, this role offers a unique chance to make a significant impact in a high-growth environment while enjoying hybrid working flexibility. Be part of a team that values accountability, innovation, and excellence in service delivery.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Operating Officer (Ref: 196617) in Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts, attend events, and connect with people on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its culture. Understand their operational challenges and think about how your experience as a COO can help them scale and transform. Tailor your answers to show you're the perfect fit!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your responses. Focus on articulating your leadership style and how you've driven operational efficiency in past roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you're genuinely interested in joining our team and contributing to our exciting growth journey.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Operating Officer (Ref: 196617) in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the COO role. Highlight your operational leadership experience and any transformation projects you've led, as these are key to what we're looking for.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of how you've driven operational efficiency and transformation in previous roles.
Showcase Your Strategic Thinking:In your application, demonstrate your ability to think strategically. We want to see how you've contributed to business growth and operational scalability in past positions, so don't hold back on those achievements!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Forsyth Barnes
✨Know the Business Inside Out
Before your interview, dive deep into the company's operations, recent news, and their strategic goals. Understanding their current challenges, especially around operational transformation and international growth, will help you tailor your responses and demonstrate your genuine interest.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a COO candidate, it's crucial to articulate your leadership philosophy. Prepare examples of how you've led teams through change, improved operational efficiency, and fostered a culture of accountability. This will show that you can not only lead but also inspire others in a fast-paced environment.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in real-world scenarios. Think about past experiences where you drove operational improvements or managed complex projects. Be ready to discuss specific metrics and outcomes to illustrate your impact.
✨Engage with Strategic Vision
During the interview, connect your experience to the company's future. Discuss how your background in scaling operations and managing cross-functional teams aligns with their goals for international expansion and customer delivery excellence. This shows you're not just looking at the present but are invested in their long-term success.
