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- Tasks: Lead and manage factory operations in automotive wiring harness manufacturing.
- Company: Join a leading automotive wiring harness manufacturer with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth, and a dynamic work environment.
- Other info: Opportunity to shape the future of electric vehicle technology.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact in the automotive industry while driving operational excellence.
- Qualifications: 15+ years in manufacturing leadership, preferably in automotive wiring harness.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
The Chief Operating Officer (COO) will be responsible for leading and managing the factory operations of the automotive wiring harness manufacturing unit. Reporting directly to the MD, the COO will oversee plant operations covering areas of engineering, production, quality, purchasing and sales while ensuring efficiency, safety, and profitability. The ideal candidate will have deep expertise in the automotive wiring harness industry, including knowledge of global OEM standards, regulatory requirements, and best practices in design, assembly, and logistics. This role requires a strategic thinker with strong execution skills, operational excellence expertise, and proven leadership in automotive manufacturing environments.
Key Responsibilities
- Operational Leadership
- Lead day-to-day operations across manufacturing plants for wiring harness production.
- Ensure operational efficiency, productivity, and compliance with automotive OEM standards.
- Implement Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and Industry 4.0 practices specific to wiring harness assembly.
- Oversee production planning, tooling, and capacity management.
- Strategic Planning
- Translate corporate strategy into operational goals tailored for the automotive wiring harness business.
- Drive scaling initiatives to serve OEM and Tier-1 customers.
- Anticipate market trends in electric vehicles (EVs), hybrid systems, and advanced electronics integration.
- Manage budgets and drive cost optimization across raw materials and labour costs.
- Monitor wire harness production costs and reduce scrap, rework, and inventory waste.
- Responding to customers' quotations and providing pricing information.
- Collaborate with finance on profitability analysis and customer pricing strategies.
- Supply Chain & Procurement
- Ensure timely Material Resource Planning (MRP) based on open customer Sales Orders.
- Oversee purchasing of all raw materials inline with vendors identified by Strategic Sourcing teams.
- Build resilient supply chains, minimizing risks such as raw material price fluctuations and supplier disruptions.
- Manage vendor relationships with component suppliers, logistics providers, and Tier-1 OEMs.
- Quality, Safety & Compliance
- Ensure compliance with ISO 9001 and IPC 620 requirements.
- Drive zero-defect culture and implement advanced quality systems (PPAP, APQP, FMEA, SPC).
- Promote workplace safety and compliance with environmental standards.
- People & Culture
- Lead, mentor, and develop plant managers, engineering managers, and sales managers.
- Foster a performance-driven culture with a strong focus on teamwork, innovation, and accountability.
- Partner with HR to attract and retain skilled technicians and engineers in wiring harness assembly.
- Technology & Innovation
- Oversee adoption of automation in harness cutting, crimping, soldering, taping, and assembly processes.
- Drive innovation in EV harnesses, high-voltage cables, lightweight materials, and modular harness designs.
- Leverage data analytics and digital tools to improve traceability and production monitoring.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
- Harness production output vs. OEM/Tier-1 schedules
- Cost per harness / scrap and rework rates
- On delivery and supply chain reliability
- Customer PPM (parts per million defects) and warranty claims
- Safety metrics (lost-time incidents, compliance rates)
- Employee retention and training effectiveness
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, or related field (MBA preferred).
- 15+ years of leadership experience in manufacturing, with at least 7-10 years in the Automotive Wiring Harness industry.
- Deep knowledge of IATF 16949, APQP, PPAP, FMEA, and OEM customer quality standards.
- Proven expertise in managing wiring harness design, assembly, testing, and logistics.
- Strong knowledge of ERP systems - especially SAP.
- Strong understanding of EV/hybrid harness requirements, high-voltage safety, and lightweight harness innovations.
- Excellent leadership, communication, and change management skills.
Reporting To Managing Director (MD)
Last Date of Application 24th October 2025
Candidates must have the Right to Work in the UK. Those with time limited Right to Work must ensure that they maintain their Right to Work during their employment.
Contact Us Parkinson Harness Technology Ltd Avalon Road Kirton Boston Lincolnshire PE20 1FF, UK Registered in England Company Number
Chief Operating Officer employer: Parkinson Harness Technology Ltd
Contact Detail:
Parkinson Harness Technology Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Operating Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts, attend automotive events, and join relevant online forums. The more people you know in the automotive wiring harness world, the better your chances of landing that COO role.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Prepare a portfolio or presentation that highlights your achievements in operational leadership and strategic planning within the automotive sector. This will help you stand out during interviews and discussions.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job openings to pop up. Reach out directly to companies you admire, like us at StudySmarter, and express your interest in potential COO roles. You never know what opportunities might arise!
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on industry trends! Keep an eye on developments in electric vehicles and advanced manufacturing techniques. Being knowledgeable about the latest innovations will make you a more attractive candidate for the COO position.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Operating Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your experience in automotive wiring harness manufacturing. We want to see how your skills align with the key responsibilities listed in the job description, so don’t hold back on showcasing your expertise!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for the COO role. We love seeing candidates who can connect their past experiences with our company’s goals and values.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: As a COO, leadership is key. In your application, highlight specific examples of how you've led teams and driven operational excellence in previous roles. We’re looking for strategic thinkers who can inspire and manage effectively!
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 the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at Parkinson Harness Technology Ltd
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of the automotive wiring harness industry. Understand the key OEM standards, regulatory requirements, and best practices in design and assembly. This will not only show your expertise but also demonstrate your commitment to the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in manufacturing environments. Highlight your experience with Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma practices, as well as any strategic initiatives you've implemented. This is your chance to shine a light on your operational excellence.
✨Be Ready for Technical Questions
Expect questions about specific technologies and processes related to wiring harness production. Familiarise yourself with terms like MRP, PPAP, and FMEA. Being able to discuss these concepts confidently will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Cultural Fit Matters
Understand the company culture and values. Be prepared to discuss how you can foster a performance-driven environment and mentor your team effectively. Showing that you align with their vision will make a strong impression.