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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.
- Respond to customer quotations and provide 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 in line with vendors identified by Strategic Sourcing teams.
- Build resilient supply chains, minimising 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 04304748
Chief Operating Officer in London 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 in London
✨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 to discuss your experience with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and Industry 4.0 practices. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've driven operational excellence in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 3
Research the company inside out! Understand their products, culture, and recent news. This will help you tailor your conversations and show that you're genuinely interested in contributing to their success.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Operating Officer in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the COO role in automotive wiring harness manufacturing. Highlight your relevant experience, especially in operational leadership and compliance with OEM standards. We want to see how your background aligns with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of your strategic planning and operational excellence in previous positions. We love a good story that showcases your skills!
Showcase Your Industry Knowledge: Demonstrate your deep expertise in the automotive wiring harness industry. Mention your familiarity with global OEM standards and any innovative practices you've implemented. We’re looking for someone who can hit the ground running!
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 gives you a chance to explore more about our company culture and values.
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. Familiarise yourself with global OEM standards, regulatory requirements, and best practices in design and assembly. This will show that you're not just a candidate, but someone who truly understands the field.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a COO, you'll need to demonstrate strong leadership capabilities. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully led teams, implemented operational efficiencies, or driven strategic initiatives. Be ready to discuss how you foster a performance-driven culture.
✨Be Ready for Technical Questions
Expect questions about Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and Industry 4.0 practices. Brush up on these methodologies and think of ways you've applied them in previous roles. This will help you articulate your expertise and how it can benefit their operations.
✨Understand Their Challenges
Research the company and its current challenges, especially regarding supply chain management and the shift towards electric vehicles. Being able to discuss these topics intelligently will show that you're proactive and genuinely interested in helping them succeed.