Chief Operating Officer

Our client is seeking an experienced and results-driven Chief Operating Officer (COO) to join their senior leadership team. The COO will oversee the operations of a complex, multi-site organisation with annual revenues exceeding €100M. As a member of the board, the COO will act as a key shareholder representative, ensuring operational efficiency, sustainable growth, and strategic alignment across the business.

This role requires a seasoned business leader with extensive P&L management experience in decentralised, high-growth organisations and a proven track record of delivering measurable success.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Operational Leadership

• Oversee the full spectrum of operations across a highly decentralised, multi-site organisation.
• Develop and implement operational strategies to ensure efficiency, profitability, and scalability.
• Drive sustainable growth by optimising resources, improving processes, and fostering innovation.

P&L Accountability

• Take full ownership of the consolidated P&L, ensuring the business consistently achieves or exceeds financial targets.
• Analyse financial data and market trends to inform decision-making and resource allocation.

Board Representation

• Serve as a shareholder representative and an active member of the board, contributing to strategic decision-making at the highest level.
• Align operational strategies with the organisation’s long-term vision and goals.

M&A Leadership

• Lead due diligence initiatives for M&A opportunities, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives and risk mitigation.
• Oversee post-merger integration to ensure seamless cultural and operational alignment.

High-Growth and Decentralized Operations

• Manage the complexities of operating within a high-growth environment, balancing flexibility with structure.
• Foster a culture of accountability and innovation across all levels of the organisation.

Leadership Development and Cultural Stewardship

• Act as a role model for leadership and an advocate of the company’s Leadership Charter.
• Inspire, mentor, and develop leadership teams to ensure alignment with organisational values and objectives.

Qualifications and Experience

• Proven Leadership Experience: Senior leadership roles with full P&L accountability for a multi-site organisation generating revenues exceeding €100M annually.
• Operational Expertise: A deep understanding of managing operations in decentralized, high-growth organisations, with a focus on delivering commercial success.
• M&A Expertise: Experience leading M&A due diligence processes and overseeing post-merger integrations is highly desirable.
• Commercial and Financial Acumen: A strong track record of driving operational and financial success in complex and competitive markets.
• Inspiring Leadership Style: A collaborative and results-oriented leader who can foster a high-performance culture across diverse teams.
• Language Proficiency: Fluency in English is essential; additional European languages are a plus.
• Mobility and Flexibility: Willingness to travel across the EU to meet the needs of the business.