Chief of Staff to the COO

About Mariana Minerals Mariana Minerals is a software-first, vertically integrated minerals company on a mission to supply the critical minerals powering modern energy, AI, and defense technologies. We’re reimagining the minerals supply chain by combining deep industry expertise with advanced software, automation, and data-driven decision-making. The Role We are seeking a highly capable Chief of Staff to the COO to serve as a force multiplier for our operations organization and a trusted extension of the COO. This role is designed for an experienced operator who has led large-scale industrial, software/autonomy-first operations, and thrives in fast-paced, execution-focused environments. You will work directly with the COO to drive Mariana's most critical operational initiatives, improve production performance, implement new technologies, and ensure alignment across sites and functions. The ideal candidate has significant operational leadership experience, a strong Operational Excellence mindset, and a track record of successfully leading change across multiple sites. You are equally comfortable on a production floor, in executive meetings, and leading complex, high-visibility projects that directly impact company performance. This role requires up to 80% travel across Mariana's operating locations and project sites. What You’ll Do Serve as a trusted advisor and operational partner to the COO, on the company's highest-priority initiatives Represent the COO across operational sites, leadership meetings, customer interactions, and strategic initiatives Lead high-visibility, cross-functional projects that directly impact production, operational efficiency, and company growth Partner with site leadership teams to ensure production targets, operational KPIs, and business objectives are achieved Be responsible for building the best operational excellence program in the world Support the deployment and integration of new technologies, automation systems, and operational innovations across Mariana's sites Identify operational bottlenecks and develop scalable solutions that improve performance across the organization Lead company-wide and multi-site transformation initiatives from planning through execution Establish accountability mechanisms, operating rhythms, and reporting structures that improve organizational execution Partner closely with Engineering, Technology, Supply Chain, Finance, and Operations teams to ensure successful project delivery Monitor operational performance, identify risks, and proactively drive corrective actions Develop executive-level analyses, recommendations, and presentations to support strategic decision-making Travel extensively to operating locations to ensure alignment, execution, and continuous improvement efforts remain on track Council with site operations leaders to provide advice and direction Desired Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations, Industrial Management, Business, or a related field; advanced degree preferred 10+ years of experience leading industrial, manufacturing, processing, energy, logistics, or related operational environments Ideally executive leadership experience. Previous site leadership experience such as General Manager, Plant Manager, Site Director, or equivalent Proven experience leading multi-site operations or company-wide operational initiatives Demonstrated success implementing Operational Excellence, Lean Manufacturing, Continuous Improvement, Six Sigma, or similar methodologies Experience deploying automation, autonomy, robotics, advanced manufacturing, AI-driven operations, or industrial technology solutions Strong preference for candidates with automation/autonomy experience from industries that are more technologically mature than mining Proven ability to influence senior leaders collaboratively and drive alignment across multiple functions and stakeholders Experience managing large-scale operational transformation programs and change management initiatives Exceptional problem-solving, communication, and project management skills Ability to operate independently in ambiguous, fast-changing environments Strong executive presence and ability to represent senior leadership internally and externally Willingness and ability to travel up to 80% Why Join Us? At Mariana Minerals, you’ll be part of a mission-driven team reshaping the way critical minerals are sourced and supplied globally. You’ll have the autonomy to make big decisions, the tools to innovate, and a culture that values ownership, smart automation, and collaboration. Our culture is built on three principles: Extreme Ownership – We take full responsibility for outcomes, relentlessly driving toward solutions. Engineer Out Requirements, then Automate – We simplify, optimize, and then automate for scale. Share Your Legos – We collaborate openly, share knowledge, and empower each other to build bigger, better solutions. Join us as we build the future of responsible mineral sourcing and supply. Mariana is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status. #J-18808-Ljbffr