Chief Operating Officer (Houston)

(On-site expectation will be discussed during the process)

Overview

We are conducting a confidential search for a Chief Operating Officer to lead and execute the operational vision of a growing manufacturing organization. This executive will serve as a critical partner to the CEO, translating strategy into disciplined execution across operations, production, commercial activity, and organizational development.

The COO will own day-to-day business performance, drive scalable growth, and ensure operational excellence across all functions. This role requires a hands‑on leader who can operate at both a strategic and tactical level within a fast‑paced manufacturing environment.

Key Areas of Ownership

Executive Leadership, Strategic Planning, Operational Management, Financial Management, Business Development, Talent Management

Key Responsibilities

• Lead all day-to-day operations to ensure alignment with company strategy and performance objectives
• Partner closely with the CEO through consistent communication, providing insight on performance, risks, and opportunities
• Establish and enforce operational standards, policies, and procedures that improve efficiency, quality, and profitability
• Represent the organization with key stakeholders including customers, vendors, and strategic partners

Business Development and Commercial Leadership

• Provide strategic direction for sales, pricing, and market positioning
• Maintain awareness of competitive landscape, industry trends, and customer expectations
• Drive revenue growth through market expansion, customer retention, and new business development
• Actively participate in sales efforts, including client engagement, presentations, and field interaction
• Oversee commercial functions including estimating, order flow, and customer communication to ensure consistency and execution

Operations, Production, and Quality

• Oversee manufacturing and production operations with a focus on throughput, efficiency, and scalability
• Identify and eliminate bottlenecks while improving workflow, capacity planning, and resource allocation
• Evaluate and plan for current and future equipment and staffing needs
• Ensure all products meet internal and customer-defined quality standards
• Drive a culture of continuous improvement across production and operational processes
• Own full profit and loss responsibility for the organization
• Analyze financial performance, budgets, and forecasts to guide decision-making
• Ensure all departments operate within budget while identifying opportunities for cost optimization
• Implement and maintain reporting systems to track operational and financial performance
• Drive purchasing and operational efficiencies to improve margins

Administrative and Operational Infrastructure

• Establish and maintain reporting across sales, production, and administrative functions
• Analyze operational data to identify trends and implement performance improvements
• Oversee compliance, documentation, and internal processes with a high level of confidentiality
• Ensure alignment with annual objectives set by executive leadership

Talent Management and Organizational Development

• Build and maintain a high-performing leadership team and workforce
• Partner with leadership to develop hiring, training, and compensation strategies
• Provide coaching, mentorship, and performance management across departments
• Foster a culture of accountability, engagement, and continuous development
• Ensure teams are properly resourced, trained, and aligned with company objectives

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required, MBA or advanced degree preferred
• Proven executive leadership experience within a manufacturing environment
• Strong strategic thinking combined with hands‑on operational execution
• Comprehensive business acumen across operations, finance, and commercial functions
• Demonstrated ability to lead through growth, change, and operational scaling
• Excellent problem‑solving and decision‑making capabilities
• Strong communication and presentation skills with the ability to influence at all levels
• Mechanically inclined with an understanding of equipment and production systems
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and specifications
• Experience with financial reporting, budgeting, and performance analysis
• Skilled in negotiation, stakeholder management, and conflict resolution
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a high‑pressure environment
• Demonstrated ability to delegate effectively while maintaining accountability
• Commitment to building a culture centered on quality, partnership, and attention to detail

What Success Looks Like

• Consistent operational execution aligned with strategic objectives
• Measurable improvements in efficiency, profitability, and production output
• Strong cross‑functional alignment and leadership accountability
• Scalable systems and processes that support continued growth
• High‑performing, engaged, and well‑developed team

This is a high‑impact executive opportunity for a leader who thrives in building structure, driving performance, and scaling operations within a dynamic manufacturing environment.