Chief Operating Officer

A multi-site industrial manufacturer with operations across the Western U.S., serving construction and infrastructure sectors. The company operates in a commodity-driven segment of the building products market and is known for long-standing customer relationships, consistent quality, and operational reliability. The business employs several hundred people and operates across multiple production sites. It is privately held and family-owned, with a culture that emphasizes humility, direct communication, and long-term orientation over short-term wins.

About the Role

Lead all manufacturing operations across multiple facilities, including gypsum wallboard plants, paper mill, and roofing production. Drive operational performance in safety, quality, throughput, and cost efficiency. Oversee capital project planning, execution, and ROI.

Responsibilities

• Operational Leadership & Execution
• Drive operational performance in safety, quality, throughput, and cost efficiency.
• Oversee capital project planning, execution, and ROI.
• Strategic Planning & P&L
• Partner with the Board to define and execute long‑term strategic priorities.
• Manage the full P&L, including pricing discipline, cost structure, and capital allocation.
• Balance revenue growth, operational excellence, and profitability.
• Leadership & Culture
• Embed and model values of integrity, humility, and direct communication.
• Develop and mentor senior operations, sales, and technical leaders.
• Strengthen organizational succession and operational bench strength.
• Cultivate strong internal relationships with employees at all levels.
• Partner with commercial leaders to support major customers and distributor partners.
• Ensure that sales strategies reflect operational priorities and market demand.
• Maintain reputation for responsiveness, relationship‑driven service, and reliable supply.

Qualifications

• 15+ years of progressive leadership in manufacturing and operations.
• Deep understanding of commodity product businesses (e.g., building materials, paper, cement, aggregates, roofing).
• Experience leading multi‑site operations with continuous or batch manufacturing.
• Demonstrated ability to translate operational excellence into financial performance.

Required Skills

• Track record of operational turnaround, process improvement, and cost discipline.
• Strong communicator with ability to work with Boards and external partners.
• Proven ability to balance operational discipline with culture, relationships, and long‑term stability.

Preferred Skills

• Straightforward, trustworthy, and relationship‑oriented.
• Comfortable operating in a family‑owned or privately held environment.
• Visible, hands‑on leader with empathy and business maturity.