POSITION SNAPSHOT: Our client is seeking a Chief Operating Officer (COO) to serve as the company's primary day-to-day operational leader, enabling the CEO to focus on long-term strategy, innovation, and market positioning. In this role, the COO will oversee a broad set of functions-including Finance & Accounting, Human Resources, Sourcing & Procurement, IT, Legal, and Insurance-ensuring the company operates efficiently, compliantly, and cost-effectively. As a key integrator across the business, the COO will establish operational rhythms, drive cross-functional coordination, and implement scalable infrastructure to support a growth-stage manufacturing organization.
The COO holds full accountability for the company's P&L, combining cost inputs from Production & Engineering with revenue performance from Sales to create a clear and actionable financial picture. This includes leading budgeting processes, overseeing cash flow and working capital, and driving performance against profitability targets. A strong manufacturing background is essential, along with proven ability to optimize P&L through cost control, operational efficiency, and strategic decision-making. The role requires deep familiarity with inventory management, financial reporting, and margin improvement, as well as the ability to identify trends and lead corrective action across functions.
A critical component of the position is ownership of sourcing and procurement, including raw material sourcing, supplier negotiation, and contract management. The COO will ensure cost-effective supply while maintaining quality and reliability and will also identify opportunities to generate value through scrap optimization and revenue recovery. Experience implementing and scaling ERP or similar operational systems is important, enabling improved visibility across finance, inventory, and operations. The role also involves strengthening systems, documentation, and processes to reduce reliance on informal practices and support scalable growth.
Finally, the COO will play a central role in expanding operations-planning and executing growth across people, equipment, and material handling capabilities. This includes hiring and developing future teams, investing in and optimizing production equipment, and improving facility layout and logistics to increase throughput and efficiency. The ideal candidate brings 15+ years of leadership experience in manufacturing or industrial environments, strong financial acumen, and a track record of building operational infrastructure in growth-stage companies. Success in this role requires a hands-on, low-ego leader who can manage complexity, drive accountability, and make the organization run seamlessly as it scales.
Relocation will be required to be at the company headquarters in Western Pennsylvania. Relocation assistance may be a consideration. Sponsorship is not available for this position.