Chief Operating Officer – COO Job Description
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Company overview
We are a globally recognized company with headquarters in [Europe / Asia / EMEA / LatAm], and a strong reputation for innovation and operational excellence. As we accelerate our U.S. market expansion, we are seeking a Chief Operating Officer (COO) to lead and optimize all aspects of U.S. operations. This executive will serve as a key partner to the CEO and the global leadership team, translating strategy into execution and scale.
COO role summary
The COO will be responsible for building and leading the operational infrastructure required for sustainable growth in the United States. This role spans supply chain, customer delivery, regulatory compliance, and team development. The ideal candidate combines strategic insight with operational rigor and has deep experience navigating the complexities of scaling a business in the U.S.
COO key responsibilities
Operational Leadership
Oversee daily operations across departments, ensuring seamless integration of people, processes, and systems.
Scalability & Process Design
Develop scalable systems and SOPs to support commercial expansion, customer satisfaction, and regulatory readiness.
Cross-Functional Execution
Align U.S. functions (sales, customer support, finance, logistics, HR) to deliver consistent, high-quality performance.
KPI Ownership
Establish and track key performance metrics across cost, quality, speed, and service to drive accountability and results.
Talent & Team Development
Build, coach, and manage high-performing operations and support teams; create a performance-based culture.
Compliance & Risk Management
Ensure operations meet U.S. legal, financial, and industry-specific compliance standards.
Executive Collaboration
Act as a key advisor to the U.S. CEO and global board; provide data-driven recommendations and operational insight.
Candidate profile
Experience
10+ years in senior operational roles, ideally as COO, VP of Operations, or GM, with experience in U.S. market scaling.
Track Record
Proven ability to build or transform operations in fast-growth environments, preferably for non-U.S. companies entering the U.S.
Leadership Style
Hands-on, solutions-oriented, highly structured, and calm under pressure.
Industry Insight
Familiarity with operational practices in [manufacturing, life sciences, tech, logistics – customize by sector].
Tools & Systems
Experience implementing ERP/CRM platforms and scaling operational tech stacks.
Education
Bachelor’s degree in Business, Engineering, or related field; MBA or operations-specific certification (e.g., Six Sigma) preferred.
Company culture and leadership style
We operate at the intersection of global structure and entrepreneurial freedom. Our U.S. team is lean, fast-moving, and collaborative, supported by the strategic vision of a global HQ. The COO must thrive in a cross-cultural, performance-driven environment, balancing local autonomy with global alignment.
Compensation and benefits
| Base Salary Range | $250,000 – $325,000 |
| Performance Bonus | Up to 40% of base salary |
| Equity | Stock options or long-term incentive plan available |
| Benefits | Full health benefits, 401(k), relocation or remote support |
| Location | [New York / Hybrid / Remote with U.S. travel as required] |
Why the Chief Operating Officer matters
This is more than a COO job—it’s a mandate to build something scalable, integrated, and exceptional. You will help turn strategic goals into seamless execution across every operational touchpoint.
FAQ
The COO manages day-to-day operations and implements the CEO’s strategic vision. They oversee personnel, resources, and logistics to deliver on objectives.
The CEO focuses on vision and external strategy; the COO focuses on operational execution—turning plans into results.
Duties often include managing operations across functions, analyzing performance metrics, optimizing processes, and collaborating with the CEO and board on strategic decisions.
Very variable—some COOs oversee internal functions only, others include sales or marketing oversight. Responsibilities depend on company size, sector, and C‑suite composition.