Chief Operating Officer (Distribution & Supply Chain)

Relocation Package Provided

MUST HAVE strong DISTRIBUTION (65%), MANUFACTURING & GLOBAL experience

PREFERENCE will be for candidates who bring heavy-duty aftermarket industry experience

PREFER candidates who have oversight of full operations; HR, IT, MFG, Supply Chain, Distribution, Purchasing, Finance, etc.

OUR CLIENT

Founded in the mid-20th century, this well-established industrial distribution and manufacturing company (<$200M) has grown into one of the most comprehensive independent aftermarket suppliers in its sector. With a catalog spanning tens of thousands of active SKUs, they supply a wide range of replacement parts and components compatible with several leading engine and equipment brands, including internal components, sealing solutions, fuel system parts, and rebuild kits. Their headquarters operates multiple advanced manufacturing facilities producing millions of components annually, supported by a dedicated team of degreed engineers holding patented proprietary technologies. In addition to their primary operations, the company maintains a global presence in almost 100 countries.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Chief Operating Officer is responsible for leading daily operations and executing the strategic vision set by the CEO and Board of Directors. Reporting directly to the CEO, this role is pivotal in driving operational excellence, sustainable growth, and long-term success across the organization.

• Oversee all core business operations, including supply chain (procurement, distribution-warehousing, inventory management) manufacturing, sales, marketing, information technology, accounting, engineering and quality assurance.
• Partner with the CEO to develop and execute strategic goals and operational plans.
• Define and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to drive continuous improvement and operational efficiency.
• Identify and pursue new market opportunities, including geographic expansion and product line development.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers, OEMs, and key customers.
• Implement systems to track performance metrics across departments.
• Lead the deployment and optimization of ERP, WMS, and other operational technologies.
• Ensure supply chain agility and responsiveness to evolving customer needs.
• Guide the management team to align with the company’s mission, values, and strategic objectives.
• Collaborate with the CFO to manage costs and maximize return on investment.

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

• Mentor and develop department heads and operational teams to foster a culture of accountability and excellence.
• Become an expert in JD Edwards ERP to increase ROI on the system.
• Analyze financial reports to inform operational decisions and strategic investments.
• Design and implement scalable policies and procedures that enhance efficiency.
• Establish and execute organizational and departmental goals, policies, and procedures.
• Lead annual forecasting and financial target-setting processes.
• Foster a culture of accountability, innovation, and continuous improvement.
• Refine operational policies to reduce costs and improve performance.
• Domestic and International travel as required for customer and supplier visits, industry events and trade shows (35% minimum)

REQUIREMENTS

• Excellent experience in DISTRIBUTION, especially GLOBAL a MUST.
• Oversight of other functions such as purchasing, IT, HR, finance, legal, etc.
• International business experience a MUST.
• Bachelor’s degree in ENGINEERING; MBA is strongly preferred.
• Minimum of 10 years in operational management, including executive-level leadership roles.
• High-level expertise in operating systems such as JDE, MRP, WMS and APICS.
• Demonstrated ability to think strategically with deep knowledge of business operations.
• Prior experience in the heavy-duty and/or internal combustion engine industry preferred.
• Proficient in e-commerce platforms and technologies, with a strong background in product development and sales management.
• Solid understanding of accounting principles, including budgeting, financial statements, cash flow management, and capital planning.
• Exceptional analytical capabilities with a data-driven approach to decision-making.
• Sound judgment and the ability to thrive in fast-paced, dynamic environments.
• Travel expected to be up to 35%