Our client is seeking to appoint a Chief Operating Officer to play a pivotal role in driving the company's operational performance, commercial growth, and wider business strategy.

The role will have a strong focus on enhancing operational efficiency, improving cross-functional alignment, and supporting the company's broader commercial and sales strategy.

Location: United Kingdom (Hybrid/Office-based)Employment Type: Permanent, Full-TimeReporting to: Chief Executive Officer and Board

The COO will be responsible for ensuring the business is operationally scalable, performance-driven, and positioned for long-term growth, while also fostering a high-performing and accountable culture across the organisation.

This is a high-impact leadership opportunity for an experienced executive who can combine strategic thinking with hands-on operational execution. The successful candidate will work closely with the CEO and senior leadership team to help shape the company's growth trajectory, strengthen operational infrastructure, and support the continued expansion of the business within a competitive and fast-moving market.

1. Role Overview

The Chief Operating Officer (COO) is a senior leadership position responsible for overseeing the commercial & operational performance of a growing organisation.

The role will ensure business strategy is effectively translated into operational execution, supported by strong governance, financial oversight, and people leadership within a regulated UK business environment.

1. Main Responsibilities

Operational Leadership & Strategy

• Lead and oversee the organisation's operational functions.
• Translate strategic business objectives into operational delivery plans.
• Develop and continuously improve operational processes, frameworks, and procedures.
• Drive operational scalability, consistency, and efficiency across the business.

People Leadership & Performance

• Lead senior operational leaders and wider management teams.
• Establish performance objectives and monitor delivery against KPIs.
• Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Support succession planning, leadership development, and team growth.

Financial & Resource Management

• Oversee operational budgets, cost management, and resource allocation.
• Partner closely with Finance on forecasting and financial planning activities.
• Ensure resources are aligned effectively against business priorities and growth plans.

Governance, Risk & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with UK employment legislation, health and safety standards, and relevant regulatory requirements.
• Identify operational risks and implement mitigation strategies.
• Support governance frameworks, internal controls, audits, and business continuity planning.
• Maintain operational standards within a regulated business environment.

Executive & Stakeholder Engagement

• Act as a trusted advisor to the CEO and Board on operational matters.
• Collaborate with executive leadership to align operations with wider business strategy.
• Build and manage relationships with key partners, suppliers, and stakeholders.

1. Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in Business, Operations, Finance, Economics, or a related field preferred.
• MBA or postgraduate qualification advantageous.
• Relevant leadership or management qualifications beneficial.

1. Skills & Experience

• Proven experience within a senior operational leadership role.
• Strong strategic, commercial, and analytical capability.
• Experience operating within a UK-based business environment.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and decision-making skills.
• Ability to operate effectively within a fast-paced, growth-oriented organisation.

1. Eligibility

Applicants must have the legal right to work in the United Kingdom.

Robert Walters Operations Limited is an employment business and employment agency and welcomes applications from all candidates