At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead operational improvements and drive performance across global manufacturing sites.
- Company: Global manufacturing leader focused on energy, defence, and automotive sectors.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, leadership role, and opportunity to shape company growth.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for travel and strategic influence.
- Why this job: Join a transformational journey and make a real impact in sustainable industries.
- Qualifications: Senior leadership experience in manufacturing and proven 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 and leading strategic operational initiatives moving forwards.
Chief Operating Officer - Manufacturing in Gloucester 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 renewable energy and international expansion not only positions it at the forefront of the market but also ensures that employees are part of a meaningful mission that contributes to a sustainable future.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Operating Officer - Manufacturing in Gloucester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts and attend relevant events. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a COO role or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your leadership style! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, share examples of how you've driven operational improvements and led teams to success. Make it personal and relatable.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to discuss strategy! Prepare to talk about how you would approach scaling operations and integrating new businesses. This shows you're not just a doer but a thinker too.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got a streamlined process that makes it easy for you to showcase your skills and experience. Plus, it helps us keep track of your application better!
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Operating Officer - Manufacturing in Gloucester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that align with the COO role. Highlight your leadership experience in manufacturing and any relevant achievements that demonstrate your ability to drive operational performance.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell us why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share your vision for the future of operations in a global manufacturing context and how your hands-on leadership style can contribute to our growth.
Showcase Your Data-Driven Approach:Since the role involves establishing clear performance metrics, be sure to mention any experience you have with data analysis and decision-making. We want to see how you've used data to drive improvements in efficiency and quality.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. This ensures your application gets to the right people quickly and allows us to keep track of all candidates efficiently. Plus, it’s super easy!
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 engaged teams at all levels. Share specific examples of how you've driven operational improvements and transformed processes in previous roles, particularly in complex environments.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to handle real-world challenges. Think about scenarios where you've had to integrate new businesses or improve efficiency without compromising quality. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.
✨Emphasise Data-Driven Decision Making
Highlight your experience with performance metrics and data analysis. Be ready to discuss how you've used data to inform decisions and track progress in previous roles. This will show that you can build a scalable operating model and drive performance across global sites effectively.
