posted: 20th May 2025

Chief Operating Officer (COO)

Location: Wiltshire

Package: Base salary circa £130k – £160k (negotiable) executive benefits

We are seeking an accomplished Chief Operating Officer (COO) to join a high-growth FMCG brand in a pivotal leadership role. This is an opportunity for an operations leader with a strong background in lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or similar operational excellence methodologies—ideally with international experience—to drive efficiency, scalability, and strategic growth.

About the Role

As a key member of the Board, the COO will oversee all operational functions, ensuring the business delivers on its strategic objectives with maximum efficiency. The role encompasses end-to-end operations, including purchasing, manufacturing, warehousing, distribution, order management, new product development, supply chain planning, third-party production, and compliance.

You will be instrumental in shaping the company’s long-term strategy while optimising day-to-day performance, fostering cross-functional collaboration, and ensuring seamless international operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Partner with the executive team to define and execute corporate strategy, balancing immediate operational priorities with long-term growth plans.
• Lead and optimise all operational functions—procurement, manufacturing, logistics, and compliance—to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve service levels.
• Develop and scale a high-performing international fulfilment network, supporting both B2B and B2C customer demands.
• Drive cost-saving initiatives, particularly in procurement and distribution, to meet budgetary targets and improve profitability.
• Mitigate operational risks by implementing robust processes and contingency plans in response to macroeconomic challenges.
• Champion compliance across multiple jurisdictions, ensuring adherence to regulatory and quality standards.
• Cultivate leadership excellence within the operations team, fostering collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement.

Experience & Skills – Essential

• Proven track record in a senior operations leadership role within FMCG, with expertise in multi-site, international fulfilment operations.
• Strong background in lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or operational excellence frameworks.
• Strategic thinker with experience in budget management, P&L oversight, and inventory optimisation.
• Expertise across core operational functions: supply chain, procurement, warehousing, production planning, and compliance.
• Collaborative leadership style, capable of influencing at board level and driving cross-functional alignment.
• Financial acumen, with experience in cost control, forecasting, and operational budgeting.
• International exposure, with the ability to navigate complex global supply chain dynamics.
• This is a high-impact role for an operations leader who thrives in a fast-paced, growth-oriented environment.