Chief Operating Officer - Steel Firm (15-25 yrs)

Job Title: Chief Operating Officer (COO)

- Company: Esteem client of DCSPL based out of Gujarat with 70% of their products exported to US, Australia, UK etc.

- Department: Operations/Executive Management

Position Overview:

- The Chief Operating Officer (COO) is a senior executive responsible for overseeing the company's ongoing operations and procedures, ensuring alignment with the overall strategic goals.

- The COO will work closely with the Management to implement business strategies, improve processes, and ensure the company's operational performance meets its targets.

- The ideal candidate should have a strong techno-commercial background, with the capacity to lead manufacturing operations and potentially transition into the CEO role.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Operational Leadership:

- Manage day-to-day manufacturing operations, ensuring efficient, cost-effective, and high quality production.

- Implement operational strategies that align with the company's overall business goals.

2. Techno-Commercial Management:

- Apply technical expertise and commercial acumen to drive business growth and improve profitability.

- Develop solutions to improve both technical and commercial aspects of the business.

3. Strategic Development:

- Collaborate with the executive team to develop long-term operational strategies.

- Identify market opportunities and ensure the company's resources are allocated efficiently to capitalize on them.

4. Process & System Optimization:

- Drive a culture of continuous improvement by implementing Six Sigma, lean manufacturing, and other optimization techniques.

- Develop and standardize processes and systems that improve productivity, quality, and efficiency.

5. OEM and Stakeholder Relations:

- Build and manage strong relationships with OEMs and other strategic partners.

- Ensure alignment with client requirements and company goals, maintaining strong supply chain relations.

6. Team Leadership & Development:

- Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing management team to deliver strong operational results.

- Foster a positive and collaborative work culture, promoting teamwork and leadership at all levels.

7. Compliance and Risk Management:

- Ensure full compliance with all legal, regulatory, and safety standards.

- Proactively identify and mitigate operational risks, ensuring the company's long- term sustainability.

8. Global Market & Networking:

- Leverage knowledge of global markets and trends to position the company competitively.

- Develop and maintain a global network of partners, suppliers, and industry experts.

9. Financial & Operational Reporting:

- Oversee financial performance related to operations, working closely with the finance team to ensure profitability targets are met.

- Present operational performance metrics and insights to the executive team and stakeholders regularly.

Required Competencies:

1. Techno-Commercial Acumen:

- A deep understanding of the technical aspects of manufacturing, paired with strong commercial insight to balance operational excellence with business growth.

2. Leadership & Team Development:

- Proven track record in leading and mentoring teams, fostering collaboration, and driving accountability.

- Ability to influence and inspire teams to achieve a shared vision.

3. Process Improvement & Systemization:

- Expertise in implementing process optimization techniques like Six Sigma, lean manufacturing, or similar systems.

- Strong analytical and decision-making skills to drive efficiency and effectiveness in operations.

4. Strategic Thinking:

- Ability to think strategically and develop long-term plans that align with company goals.

- Capacity to translate high-level strategic initiatives into actionable plans.

5. OEM & Supply Chain Management:

- Experience managing relationships with OEMs and critical stakeholders to ensure seamless production and supply chain operations.

6. Global Business Acumen:

- In-depth knowledge of international markets, regulations, and best practices in manufacturing.

- Strong networking skills and the ability to build relationships across diverse geographies.

7. Compliance & Risk Mitigation:

- Comprehensive understanding of legal and regulatory frameworks in manufacturing.

- Ability to assess and mitigate risks proactively.

Required Experience:

1. Educational Background:

- Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Industrial, Metallurgy, or related field).

- Master's in Business Administration (MBA) or relevant post-graduate qualifications are preferred.

2. Industry-Specific Expertise:

- 15+ years of experience in a senior operational role within the manufacturing industry, specifically in steel foundry, forging, or related fields.

- Direct experience working with OEMs is essential.

3. Manufacturing Leadership:

- Proven experience in leading large-scale manufacturing operations with a focus on operational efficiency, productivity, and quality control.

4. Techno-Commercial Expertise:

- Demonstrated experience in managing both technical and commercial aspects of operations, with the ability to drive cost-saving initiatives.

5. Process and System Management:

- Hands-on experience in implementing systems that improve production efficiency, such as Six Sigma or lean manufacturing.

6. Finance & Business Acumen:

- Strong understanding of financial management in a manufacturing setting, with the ability to influence P&L outcomes.

- Experience working with budgeting, forecasting, and operational performance metrics.

7. Global Experience:

- Demonstrated experience in managing or expanding operations in global markets, with exposure to international supply chains and regulatory environments.

Desired/Preferred Qualifications:

1. Educational Specialization:

- Master's in Metallurgy, Business Administration, or related disciplines is preferred.

2. Process Improvement Certifications:

- Certification in Six Sigma, Lean Manufacturing, or other process improvement methodologies.

3. Financial Expertise:

- Additional knowledge in accounting, finance, or operational budgeting to support data-driven decision-making.