Chief Operating Officer

Company: WITTENSTEIN Inc.Location: US - Bartlett, ILCountry: USCategory: ProductionContract duration: LimitedEmployment Type: Full timeResponsibilitiesPosition SummaryThe Chief Operating Officer (COO) is responsible for the overall operational management of WITTENSTEIN Region Americas: procurement, production, logistics, quality, operational excellence and facility management. This position ensures that economic and strategic goals are achieved. In this dual role, the COO combines corporate responsibility with plant management (P&L responsibility). The role drives performance, builds a culture of accountability and customer focus and ensures compliance with all safety-, environmental-, and regulatory- requirements.Reports ToCEO North America / Head of Region Americas with dotted line to Managing Director Walpha in German headquarters (Matrix organization)Position ResponsibilitiesLeadership & CultureLeadership of overall operational Management of Region Americas: procurement, production, logistics, quality, operational excellence, facility management (50+ employees)shaping the strategic direction and long-term success of Region AmericasCreate a high-performance environment with clear expectations, data-driven decision-making, and a strong results orientation (KPIs)Ensure customer focus is embedded in all business processes and decisions, driving customer satisfaction, loyalty, and long-term partnershipsOperations ManagementDefine and execute production strategies, processes, and systems to drive long-term technological advancement, operational efficiency, and scalability (e.g., ERP implementation, factory expansion, new value streams)Ensure operational excellence across safety, quality, cost (manufacturing cost, productivity), and delivery performance (lead time, reliability)Review and approve plans for production output, budgets, labor/material efficiency, asset utilization, maintenance, and order processing effectivenessMonitor and continuously improve KPIs (OTIF, scrap, productivity, safety, inventory, manufacturing cost)Align site operations with corporate standards within a global matrix structurePlan and approve capital investments, workforce capacity, technologies, and facility requirements in coordination with corporate functionsEnsure compliance with all policies, regulatory requirements, and safety standardsSupply Chain ManagementDevelop and execute end-to-end supply chain strategies aligned with business goals, focusing on responsiveness, flexibility, and cost efficiency in a high-mix/low-volume environmentMonitor and improve supply chain KPIs (inventory turns, forecast accuracy, OTIF, lead times, backlog)Drive logistics optimization, including warehousing, transportation, and distribution performanceEnsure alignment and integration with global supply chain standards and systems from headquartersProcurementSteer supplier selection, development, and performance management, including strategic partnerships and risk mitigationSteer cost reduction initiatives (e.g., negotiations, global sourcing) while maintaining required quality and delivery standardsMonitor procurement KPIs (cost savings, supplier performance, on-time delivery, quality) and report results to executive leadership (US and Germany)Quality ManagementEstablish robust quality management system (QMS) aligned with corporate and regulatory requirementsEnsure product and process qualityMonitor and improve quality KPIs (scrap, rework, customer complaints, internal/external PPM)Foster a culture of quality excellence and accountability throughout the organizationCoordinate with customers and headquarters on quality issues, certifications, and compliance standardsSafety (EHS)Ensure full compliance with all health, safety, and environmental regulations and corporate policiesDevelop and promote a proactive safety culture focused on prevention, awareness, and accountability at all organizational levelsEstablish and monitor safety KPIs (incident rates, near-misses, corrective actions)Integrate safety considerations into all operational and continuous improvement activitiesFacility ManagementOversee building projects, maintenance, infrastructure, and utilitiesDrive factory layout optimization and expansion for manufacturing and logistics capabilitiesManage facility services including maintenance, repair, security, and energy efficiency programsQualificationsMinimum 10+ years of successful leadership experience in Operations Management and/or Engineering Management within a high-precision manufacturing environmentExperience working in quality-driven manufacturing environments is highly preferredExperience working in a dual role (e.g. COO & Plant Manager is highly preferredProven ability to achieve exceptional performance in On-Time Delivery, Quality, Labor Efficiency, Profitability, Expense Control, Shop Floor Organization (5S), and Process Improvement (e.g., value stream analysis and design)Strong knowledge of all aspects of Operations Management, including Machining, Assembly, Purchasing, Quality Assurance, Logistics, Systems Assembly, Facility Management, and PlanningDeep understanding of Lean methodologies, best practices, and factory automation technologiesSolid knowledge of OSHA safety regulations and workplace safety practicesStrong financial acumen, including budgeting, cost control, capital investment planning, and P&L responsibilityExperience with ERP systems (SAP required)Experience with S&OP processes, demand planning, and supply chain optimization in high-mix/low-volume environmentsIntercultural competence and experience working within a global matrix organization, preferably with a German parent companyStrong experience with ISO 9001 and quality management systemsKnowledge of regulatory compliance requirements, including product compliance, export control (e.g., ITAR/EAR), and relevant international standardsExperience driving organizational change, cultural transformation, and continuous improvement initiativesWillingness and ability to travel internationally as requiredBenefitsGreat Place To Work CertifiedCompetitive Base SalaryBonus Incentive PlanExcellent Health BenefitsMonthly medical premiums 50% to 75% below marketAnnual deductible & copays below marketHigher % of medical coverage than marketNo monthly dental and vision premiumsAnnual profit-sharing opportunity up to 5%Matching 401(k) contributionWellness reimbursement (50% up to $500/year)Wellness rewards redeemed for gift cardsShort-Term Disability Insurance & Long-Term Disability InsuranceAccidental Death & Dismemberment InsuranceLife InsuranceFlexible Spending Accounts (Medical and Dependent Care)Tuition ReimbursementNote: WITTENSTEIN is not accepting applicants from external recruiters for this position.About WITTENSTEIN:Committed to being a world-class partner of intelligent mechatronic drive technology, servo systems, and medical components, WITTENSTEIN uses the power of science, innovation, and forward-thinking engineering to provide you cutting-edge technology for motion. Since pioneering the alpha servo planetary gear reducer in 1983, support and motion requirements from the market have continued to change and WITTENSTEIN is well positioned to deliver reliable products and services to its customers and partners.All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, or other status protected by applicable law. WITTENSTEIN is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer: Minority/Female/Disability/Veteran.#wittensteinInterested?Please apply online rather than on paper or by email. These FAQ´s provide answers to the most frequently asked questions.Do you have any questions?Contact us to learn more about your opportunities and take the next step towards your future!Mr. Mark View email address on click.appcast.ioView phone number on click.appcast.io #J-18808-Ljbffr WITTENSTEIN galaxie GmbH