Chief Operating Officer (COO) – Manufacturing Leadership Role in Los Angeles, CA

Are you a seasoned operations executive with a proven track record in manufacturing excellence? Robert Half is proud to partner with a well-established and rapidly growing manufacturing company in Los Angeles, California, seeking a dynamic Chief Operating Officer (COO) to spearhead all operational functions. This is a 100% onsite, full-time position perfect for a hands-on leader ready to drive scalability, efficiency, and profitability in a high-volume production environment. With Los Angeles' thriving manufacturing sector, this role offers unparalleled opportunities to shape the future of a stable, growth-oriented organization.

About the Role

As COO, you will serve as the operational backbone of this innovative manufacturing firm, overseeing everything from production floors to supply chain logistics. Reporting directly to ownership, you'll collaborate with C-suite leaders to align daily operations with long-term strategic goals. This position demands a strategic thinker who thrives in fast-paced settings, excels at implementing lean manufacturing principles, and fosters a culture of continuous improvement. If you have experience scaling manufacturing operations in competitive markets like Southern California, this COO role at our client's company is your chance to make a transformative impact. Competitive salary starting at $175,000 annually, plus comprehensive executive benefits, positions this as one of the top COO jobs in Los Angeles manufacturing.

Key Responsibilities

The COO will be at the forefront of operational excellence, with a comprehensive set of duties designed to optimize performance across the board:

• Lead comprehensive day-to-day operations, encompassing manufacturing, production planning, supply chain management, logistics, and distribution to ensure seamless workflow.
• Partner closely with ownership and the executive team to develop and execute strategic plans, operational initiatives, and growth roadmaps.
• Champion process improvements and lean manufacturing practices, targeting enhanced productivity, cost reductions, and operational efficiency.
• Maintain rigorous standards for production goals, prioritizing safety protocols, quality assurance, and on-time delivery metrics.
• Direct procurement strategies, vendor management, and inventory control systems to guarantee uninterrupted production flows and cost-effective sourcing.
• Design, implement, and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to track operational health, pinpoint bottlenecks, and drive data-informed enhancements.
• Work in tandem with finance leaders on budgeting, financial forecasting, and capital investment decisions to support sustainable expansion.
• Collaborate with HR on talent acquisition, organizational development, workforce planning, and leadership development programs.
• Cultivate a high-performance culture rooted in accountability, cross-functional teamwork, innovation, and relentless continuous improvement.

These responsibilities highlight the breadth of this executive role, demanding versatility and foresight in manufacturing operations.

Required Qualifications

To succeed as COO, candidates must bring a robust blend of education, experience, and expertise tailored to high-stakes manufacturing leadership:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Operations Management, Engineering, or a related discipline; an MBA is strongly preferred for strategic acumen.
• Minimum 10+ years of progressive leadership in manufacturing operations, with direct experience at senior management or COO/VP levels.
• Demonstrated success in managing large-scale production facilities, complex supply chains, and multi-site logistics operations.
• Deep expertise in lean manufacturing methodologies, Six Sigma, process optimization, and operational excellence frameworks.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills to inspire cross-functional teams, negotiate with vendors, and influence stakeholders.
• Hands-on proficiency with ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle), advanced analytics tools, and data-driven decision-making processes.
• Proven ability to deliver measurable results in cost savings, production scalability, and team performance in dynamic environments.

Ideal candidates are results-driven leaders passionate about manufacturing innovation and excelling in onsite, collaborative settings.

Why Join Us

This COO position offers more than just a title—it's a career-defining opportunity within a financially robust, growth-stage manufacturing leader in Los Angeles. Enjoy the stability of an established company paired with the excitement of scaling operations amid strong market demand. You'll lead pivotal transformations, directly influencing profitability and expansion. Our client boasts a supportive leadership team, inclusive company culture, and a commitment to employee success. The competitive compensation package—base salary around $175,000 with potential for bonuses, equity, and top-tier benefits including health, retirement, and professional development—sets this apart from typical COO jobs. Join Robert Half's network of elite talent and elevate your career in California's premier manufacturing hub. For confidential inquiries, contact David Bizub at Robert Half today.

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