Chief Operating Officer (COO)
5 days ago
Richmond
Chief Operating Officer (COO) About the Role We are seeking a highly capable and hands‑on Chief Operating Officer (COO) to drive operational excellence across Production, Operations, HR, H&S, Grants, R&D, and Sales support. This is a critical leadership role within our senior team, ideal for a proactive, commercially minded operator who thrives on delivering continuous improvement and supporting the growth of a manufacturing/industrial business. The COO will act as the central point of coordination across key business functions—ensuring alignment, accountability, and operational performance throughout the organisation. Key Responsibilities Production Leadership • Serve as the primary point of contact for the Production Manager for all day‑to‑day issues., • Own and manage monthly production targets to ensure performance aligns with budget expectations., • Be the main point of contact for the Operations Manager for daily operational matters., • Lead capex projects, including scoping, critical path management, and cost control., • Take overall responsibility for HR across the business., • Lead and drive all Health & Safety strategy and compliance across the organisation., • Ensure adherence to relevant legislation and best practice., • Continuously identify potential grant opportunities., • Build and maintain relationships with grant providers, agencies, and funding bodies., • Oversee successful grant delivery and compliance., • Manage grant‑related costs in conjunction with the CFO. We’re looking for someone who brings: • Proven senior leadership experience in a manufacturing, engineering, or industrial setting., • Strong operational and production acumen with a track record of hitting performance targets., • Experience managing capex projects and multi‑year capital planning., • Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills., • A hands‑on, solutions‑focused approach to leadership., • Experience with grants/funding and R&D programmes (highly advantageous)., • A passion for continuous improvement and organisational development.