Chief Operating Officer

Kreischer Miller's Retained Executive Search (RES) group takes a highly personalized and collaborative approach to executive recruiting.  We work directly with owners of privately-held and family-owned companies to help build their leadership teams. Our goal is to find the best fit for your organization – top-tier executives who will make an immediate and long-term positive impact on your company.  Our RES group has a proven track record of locating talented senior-level executives. We are proud to be a perennial name on Philadelphia Business Journal's list of Top 10 Retained Search Firms.

We have been engaged by our packaging/manufacturing client in Montgomery County Pennsylvania to help them find their next Chief Operating Officer (COO). The COO will report directly to the Chief Executive Officer of this successful family owned company. The COO will direct the Director of Operations, the Director of HR, the Director of IT, and the Purchasing/Supply Chain Manager.

Position Summary:

The Chief Operating Officer is a key member of the executive leadership team, overseeing the daily operations of a large-scale corrugated box manufacturing company. This role is responsible for ensuring operational excellence, optimizing production processes, driving strategic growth initiatives, and aligning manufacturing operations with the company's long-term goals. The ideal candidate will bring deep industry experience, strong leadership, and a proven track record of managing large-scale manufacturing operations efficiently and profitably. This role is expected to be on site five days a week.

Key Responsibilities:

• Operational Leadership:

Oversee all aspects of manufacturing operations including production, supply chain, logistics, quality control, maintenance, safety, human resources, IT and customer fulfillment. Sets targets and operating plans for each department and manages each to their goals and beyond.

• Strategic Planning & Execution:

Collaborate with the CEO and executive team to develop and execute strategic initiatives focused on efficiency, growth, sustainability, and profitability. Works closely with CFO and Director of Sales to ensure sales and finance goals mesh with Operational goals.

• Manufacturing Excellence:

Lead the implementation of lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement initiatives to improve productivity, reduce waste, and optimize costs. Consistent drive for improved productivity in the manufacturing operation following the traditional triad; Safety first, quality second, throughput third.

• Supply Chain & Logistics:

Optimize procurement, inventory management, and distribution processes to ensure timely and cost-effective delivery of raw materials and finished goods.

• Team Leadership & Development:

Build, mentor, and lead high-performing teams. Foster a culture of accountability, safety, and operational excellence.

• Financial Performance:

Manage operational budgets, analyze performance metrics, and identify areas for improvement to ensure profitability and cost control.

• Customer Focus:

Partner with Sales and Customer Service teams to ensure that production meets customer requirements in terms of quality, timing, and specifications.

• Compliance & Safety:

Ensure compliance with all relevant environmental, health, safety, and regulatory requirements at the local, state, and federal levels.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, Industrial Management, or a related field (MBA or advanced degree preferred).
• 10+ years of senior operational leadership experience in a large-scale corrugated manufacturing environment.
• Proven track record in managing multi-site operations and leading large teams.
• Deep understanding of supply chain, logistics, and production planning.
• Deep understanding of Human Resources and Information Technology that aligns both to drive growth and profitability.
• Exceptional leadership, interpersonal, and communication skills.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with a focus on results.
• Experience with M&A execution preferred.

Preferred Attributes:

• Experience with ERP and manufacturing software systems. Amtech/Encore, Llumin CMMS and CTI/EPS is preferred.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strategic mindset with attention to detail and operational discipline.
• Previous accountability to the financial performance of the business.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Competitive executive salary and performance-based bonus
• Comprehensive health and retirement benefits
• Company vehicle or car allowance

Preference will be given to local candidates, but we will consider any qualified candidate legally eligible to work in the US without sponsorship.