Chief Operating Officer

Essex Permanent View Job Description
COO/Chief Operating Officer role based in Essex for a consumer manufacturerWe are keen to speak to operations specialists who have gained experience in large £100 million plus businesses
  • Newly created COO role for global consumer manufacturer
  • Global remit for a fast growth business

About Our Client

My client is a global leader in precision-engineered consumer products, they have built a premium reputation in a highly specialised category. Known for innovation, performance, and design excellence, it has successfully combined advanced manufacturing with brand storytelling to command a loyal, international customer base. With a blend of heritage and modernity, the business operates across both professional and enthusiast markets, delivering product experiences that reflect a deep understanding of its audience. Headquartered in Essex with global distribution reach, it continues to grow year-on-year through product innovation, partnerships, and a strong e-commerce presence.

Job Description



  • Act as the Group MD's right hand the Chief Operating Officer will be shaping and executing the company's operational and growth strategy.


  • Lead and enhance back-office operations including finance, HR, IT, supply chain, legal, and compliance.


  • Support the end-to-end product lifecycle - from design, manufacture, and logistics through to customer experience.


  • Drive operational efficiency, process optimisation, and scalability in a fast-paced consumer environment.


  • Oversee key commercial and legal agreements, managing external legal counsel where required.


  • Provide rigorous performance insight through KPIs, dashboards, and operational reporting.


  • Serve as a key contact point for cross-functional issues, acting as a strategic integrator across departments.


  • Take accountability for risk management, regulatory compliance, and internal control frameworks.


  • Support international operations, including partner/vendor management and regional logistics.



The Successful Applicant

  • Chief Operating Officer
  • Proven leadership experience in a consumer manufacturing business generating revenues in excess of £100 million.


  • Strong understanding of the manufacturing cycle of a physical consumer product - ideally involving international production and retail distribution.


  • Demonstrated success in scaling back-office operations and improving organisational effectiveness.


  • Experience working closely with or reporting directly into a CEO/MD as a trusted strategic advisor.


  • Sound knowledge of commercial and legal processes including contract negotiation, compliance, and governance.


  • Resilient, pragmatic, and hands-on with strong problem-solving capability.


  • Excellent interpersonal skills, capable of influencing across all levels of a business.


  • Based close to the HQ in Essex.



What's on Offer

Competitive six figure basic salary with performance bonus & benefits

Contact
Louise Shepherd
Quote job ref
JN-012025-6644198
Phone number
+44 11 6282 1560

Job summary

Job function
Executive Search
Subsector
Engineering & Manufacturing
Sector
FMCG (Fast Moving Consumer Goods)
Location
Essex
Contract type
Permanent
Consultant name
Louise Shepherd
Consultant phone
+44 11 6282 1560
Job reference
JN-012025-6644198