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.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives, building on our four‑year Sharing in Growth programme.

Operations Management

• 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.
• Oversee and maintain the company’s three‑year capital investment plan.

Human Resources

• Take overall responsibility for HR across the business.
• Provide leadership and oversight to reduce “residual noise,” ensuring HR processes run smoothly (with operational support already in place).

Health & Safety

• Lead and drive all Health & Safety strategy and compliance across the organisation.
• Ensure adherence to relevant legislation and best practice.
• Work closely with the newly appointed H&S Officer (junior/practical role) to strengthen company-wide safety culture.

Grants & Funding

• 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.