At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead operational performance and drive transformation in a fast-growing tech business.
- Company: Join a dynamic, technology-led company focused on retail and B2B services.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and a chance to influence business strategy.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity for growth and collaboration in a transformative phase.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a high-growth environment with international expansion opportunities.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in senior operational roles 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 Wokingham 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. 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. Embrace the challenge of scaling operations while enjoying hybrid working flexibility and being part of an entrepreneurial leadership team.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Operating Officer (Ref: 196617) in Wokingham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts and attend relevant events. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can land you that COO role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company inside out. Understand their operational challenges and think about how your experience can help them scale and transform. We want to see you shine!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership style! Be ready to discuss how you've built high-performing teams and fostered a culture of continuous improvement. We love hearing about real-life examples that demonstrate your impact.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. We’re excited to see how you can contribute to our growth journey!
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Operating Officer (Ref: 196617) in Wokingham
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 for us.
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 high-impact position. 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 about operational growth and scalability. We want to see how you can contribute to our international expansion plans and improve customer experiences.
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can't wait to hear from you!
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, your leadership approach is crucial. Be ready to discuss your experience in leading high-performing teams and how you've fostered a culture of accountability and collaboration. Use specific examples that highlight your ability to drive operational efficiency and transformation.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in real-world scenarios. Think about past experiences where you improved operational performance or led successful transformation projects. Structure your answers using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to clearly convey your impact.
✨Align with Their Vision for Growth
The company is focused on scaling operations and enhancing customer delivery. Be prepared to discuss how your strategic thinking and commercial awareness can contribute to their international expansion plans. Highlight any relevant experience you have with B2B operations or ERP transformations.
