Chief Operating Officer

Position Overview

This opportunity is with a long-established industrial distribution and manufacturing business that has expanded into a major independent aftermarket supplier in its field. The organization serves customers across nearly 100 countries and operates several advanced manufacturing sites that produce millions of components each year. Its product range includes replacement parts and components for leading engine and equipment brands, along with internal engine parts, sealing products, fuel system components, and rebuild kits. The company also relies on a team of degreed engineers and patented proprietary technologies to support its operations.

The Chief Operating Officer will oversee day-to-day operations and help turn the CEO and Board’s strategy into action. Reporting to the CEO, this leader will play a central role in improving operational performance, supporting sustainable growth, and strengthening the company for the long term.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct the organization’s main operating functions, including procurement, distribution, warehousing, inventory control, manufacturing, sales, marketing, IT, accounting, engineering, and quality assurance.
• Work closely with the CEO to shape strategic priorities and carry out operational plans.
• Set, track, and improve key performance indicators to raise efficiency and support ongoing improvement.
• Spot and develop new growth opportunities, including expansion into new geographies and new product categories.
• Maintain productive relationships with suppliers, OEM partners, and major customers.
• Put in place reporting systems that measure performance across departments.
• Lead implementation and optimization of ERP, WMS, and related business systems.
• Strengthen supply chain responsiveness and flexibility to meet changing customer requirements.
• Guide senior managers so their work stays aligned with the company’s mission, values, and strategy.
• Partner with the CFO to control costs and improve returns on investment.

Additional Responsibilities

• Coach and develop department leaders and operations teams to build accountability and high performance.
• Develop deep expertise in JD Edwards ERP and improve the system’s return on investment.
• Review financial statements and reports to support operating choices and investment decisions.
• Create scalable policies and procedures that improve efficiency across the business.
• Set and roll out organizational and departmental goals, policies, and procedures.
• Lead the annual forecasting process and help establish financial targets.
• Promote a workplace culture centered on ownership, innovation, and continuous improvement.
• Update operating policies to lower costs and strengthen results.
• Travel domestically and internationally as needed for customer and supplier meetings, industry events, and trade shows; travel is expected to be at least 35%.

Requirements

• Strong background in distribution, with global distribution experience considered essential.
• International business experience is required.
• A bachelor’s degree in business or a related discipline is required; an MBA is strongly preferred.
• At least 10 years of operational management experience, including executive leadership responsibilities.
• Advanced knowledge of systems such as JDE, MRP, WMS, and APICS.
• Proven strategic thinking ability with a strong grasp of business operations.
• Experience in the heavy-duty and/or internal combustion engine sector is preferred.
• Comfort working with e-commerce platforms and technologies, along with experience in product development and sales management.
• Solid knowledge of accounting fundamentals, including budgeting, financial reporting, cash flow, and capital planning.
• Strong analytical skills and a data-based approach to decision-making.
• Good judgment and the ability to succeed in fast-moving, changing environments.
• Willingness to travel up to 35%.

Additional Information

A relocation package is provided. Candidates with experience in the automotive aftermarket industry will be given preference. The role requires strong experience in distribution, manufacturing, and global operations.