Chief Operating Officer

Job Description : OO ITALY Open to Italian speaking International candidates Chief Operating Officer. The Chief Operating Officer (COO) will be a key member of the leadership team and the Board of Directors, with responsibility for overseeing all aspects of operations, including manufacturing plants in Europe. This hands-on role will drive operational excellence across manufacturing, engineering, quality, safety, and environmental compliance while ensuring efficiency and alignment with the company’s strategic objectives. Key Responsibilities: Oversee complex operations across two plants, serving a large number of clients in the food sector, managing manufacturing, quality, safety, environmental compliance, supply chain, and distribution. Develop and implement operational strategies that align with the company’s long-term goals, balancing day-to-day operations with strategic growth initiatives. Manage the operations budget, identify cost-saving opportunities, and oversee the continuous improvement of key performance indicators (KPIs) to optimize plant and supply chain performance. Ensure regulatory compliance with food safety and industry standards, particularly in the food preparation sector. Lead efforts in product development, working to integrate new techniques, ingredients, and processes to enhance the product portfolio. Optimize working capital and improve cash flow across the organization, ensuring that financial resources are deployed efficiently. Build, develop, and lead a high-performing operations team, mentoring and coaching employees to maximize their potential and improve team dynamics. Identify and mitigate operational risks, including supply chain disruptions, regulatory changes, and other unforeseen challenges, developing contingency plans when necessary. Qualifications: 15+ years of experience in international supply chain management and industrial roles, with a strong focus on upstream operations including Manufacturing, Engineering, Safety, Quality, Environmental Compliance, and Planning. Strong food and beverage background Proven track record in Operational Excellence with expertise in the implementation of methodologies such as IWS (Integrated Work Systems), driving process improvements and performance optimization. Extensive international and cross-cultural management experience, leading diverse teams across multiple geographies and cultures, fostering collaboration, and achieving business objectives. Strong financial understanding, including P&L, balance sheet, and cash flow management, with hands-on experience as part of a Business Leadership Team at a country or regional level. Intermediate experience in a family-owned, private equity-backed, or less structured company compared to a developed multinational environment. Strong international exposure. Fluent in Italian and English. Leadership & Management Behavioral Competencies: Transformational leader with a hands-on approach, focused on driving performance and delivering exceptional results. Agile and adaptive, able to pivot without losing sight of the endgame while consistently seeking innovative solutions. People person, inspiring and empowering teams to foster a culture of high performance and continuous improvement. Positive thinker and energy giver, building strong relationships and motivating others to achieve shared goals. Team player, adept at collaborating across diverse teams and environments, investing in talent development, mentoring, and coaching to maximize potential. Strategic mindset, able to respond to changing circumstances while maintaining a clear vision.

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