At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead global operations and drive performance improvements across manufacturing and project delivery.
- Company: Global manufacturing leader focused on energy, defence, and automotive sectors.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, leadership influence, and opportunities for international travel.
- Other info: Dynamic role with significant impact on growth and strategic initiatives.
- Why this job: Join a transformational journey and shape the future of sustainable industries.
- Qualifications: Senior leadership experience in manufacturing with a track record of operational excellence.
The predicted salary is between 120000 - 150000 € per year.
Our client is looking for a Chief Operating Officer (COO) to join their Executive Leadership Team and play a central role in shaping the next phase of the Group's growth. The Group is a listed, global manufacturing business serving the energy, defence, and automotive sectors. Increasingly, their work is supporting renewable energy and other sustainable industries, reflecting both the Board's ambition and the future of the company's markets. With a record order book and consistent growth, the business is very well positioned and now they need a COO who can build on this momentum; someone who can bring clarity, pace, and discipline to the Group's operations while supporting continued expansion across international markets.
This is a hands-on leadership role with real breadth and influence. You’ll be responsible for strengthening and evolving the Group's global operations, ensuring they can scale efficiently while maintaining the quality and performance their customers expect. You’ll work closely with the CEO and wider leadership team to turn strategy into execution, driving performance across their global sites and building an operating model that supports both organic growth and future acquisitions.
The Chief Operating Officer will:
- Lead operational improvement and transformation across all global sites
- Strengthen performance across engineering, procurement, supply chain, manufacturing, and project delivery
- Work closely with regional General Managers to deliver both local priorities and consistent group standards
- Support the integration of new businesses, balancing alignment with respect for what already works
- Drive improvements in efficiency, capacity, and margin without compromising quality or safety
- Build an operating model that is scalable, resilient, and fit for a growing international business
- Establish clear performance metrics and use data to inform decisions and track progress
- Partner with the CEO and Executive Team to deliver key strategic initiatives
The ideal person for this role will have:
- Significant senior leadership experience within manufacturing, ideally in complex or project-based environments
- Proven track record of delivering change and improving operational performance
- Experience working in a global, multi-site organisation
- A pragmatic, hands-on approach and a visible leadership style
- The ability to engage and influence at every level, from senior stakeholders to frontline teams
- Experience integrating businesses, systems, and processes in a growing organisation
- The flexibility to travel regularly across the global sites
This is a company on a transformational growth journey and with further acquisitions planned for this year and next, the new COO will play a key part in integrating these and developing/leading strategic operational initiatives moving forwards.
Chief Operating Officer - Manufacturing employer: Oryx Executive Search
As a leading global manufacturing business, our client offers an exceptional opportunity for the Chief Operating Officer to drive transformative growth in a dynamic and sustainable industry. With a strong commitment to employee development, a collaborative work culture, and a focus on innovation, this role provides the chance to make a significant impact while working alongside a talented Executive Leadership Team. The company’s emphasis on operational excellence and strategic initiatives ensures that employees are not only part of a successful journey but also have ample opportunities for personal and professional growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Operating Officer - Manufacturing
✨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 operations. Understand their challenges and think about how your experience can help them grow. Tailor your answers to show you’re the perfect fit for their COO role.
✨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 improvements 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, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged in the process.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Operating Officer - Manufacturing
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of COO in manufacturing. Highlight your leadership experience and any specific achievements in operational improvement that align with the job description.
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. Mention your hands-on leadership style and how you've successfully driven change in previous positions.
Showcase Relevant Experience:When detailing your work history, focus on your experience in global, multi-site organisations. We want to see how you've managed operations across different locations and what impact you made.
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at Oryx Executive Search
✨Know the Company Inside Out
Before your interview, dive deep into the company's history, values, and recent developments. Understand their position in the manufacturing sector, especially regarding renewable energy and sustainability. This knowledge will help you align your answers with their goals and demonstrate your genuine interest.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a COO, your leadership style is crucial. Be prepared to discuss your hands-on approach and how you've successfully led teams in complex environments. Use specific examples that highlight your ability to engage and influence stakeholders at all levels, showcasing your pragmatic problem-solving skills.
✨Prepare for Operational Challenges
Expect questions about operational improvement and transformation. Think of scenarios where you've driven efficiency and performance in multi-site organisations. Be ready to discuss how you would establish clear performance metrics and use data to inform decisions, as this aligns with the role's requirements.
✨Emphasise Your Global Experience
Since the role involves working across international markets, highlight your experience in global operations. Discuss any previous roles where you integrated businesses or systems, and how you balanced local priorities with group standards. This will show that you're equipped to handle the complexities of a growing international business.
