Chief Operating Officer

Privately held and Canadian-owned, our group of Companies is a trusted partner in manufacturing and infrastructure solutions. Together, we bring decades of expertise across multiple sectors. Serving clients across Canada and the USA, our Companies are united by a commitment to innovation, operational excellence, and building long-term partnerships.

Job Summary

Reporting directly to the President & CEO and serving as a key member of the senior leadership team, the COO will play a pivotal role in scaling our manufacturing capacity, optimizing operational efficiency, and fueling company growth.

The ideal candidate will bring deep expertise in manufacturing operations, supply chain management, and lean process improvement, paired with a proven ability to lead cross-functional teams. This role will be accountable for delivering operational excellence across production, quality assurance, logistics, and facilities management.

Job Requirements

• Lead and manage day-to-day operations across manufacturing, production, supply chain, logistics, procurement, and quality assurance.
• Partner with the CEO and executive team to shape and execute long-term growth strategies and business plans.
• Implement best-in-class practices (Lean, Six Sigma, TPM) to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and optimize productivity.
• Oversee and align cross-functional workflows between sales, engineering, design, estimating, project management, and finance.
• Champion a strong Health & Safety culture and ensure compliance with all environmental and regulatory standards.
• Build, mentor, and inspire a high-performing operations leadership team while fostering accountability, recognition, and continuous development.
• Drive operational KPIs and establish reporting systems for project performance, costs, cash flow, capacity, and risk management.
• Oversee ERP and digital system implementation to enhance visibility and streamline decision-making.
• Support budgeting, forecasting, and contract reviews to ensure financial performance and protect company interests.
• Maintain strong on-floor presence and ensure preventative maintenance and equipment investment plans are in place to support future growth.
• Other job duties and responsibilities as required.

Qualifications

• 7-10 years of progressive leadership in manufacturing operations, including experience as COO, VP of Operations, or similar executive role.
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, or related field of study (MBA preferred).
• Background in metal fabrication, construction, or related industries preferred; Engineering (P.Eng.) or advanced business degree (MBA) considered an asset.
• Exceptional leadership and communication skills with a proven ability to build, mentor, and inspire high-performing teams.
• Strong track record in operational excellence, implementing Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies.
• Experience developing and executing strategies that improve efficiency, quality, and profitability while maintaining strict safety standards.
• Solid financial acumen with P&L responsibility, budgeting expertise, and KPI-driven decision-making.
• Demonstrated ability to lead major capital projects such as re-tooling, facility expansions, or greenfield start-ups.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing systems, ERP platforms, and digital tools that streamline operations.
• Skilled in employee relations, change management, and fostering a positive, performance-driven culture.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to balance long-term vision with hands-on operational execution.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills, with the ability to thrive in fast-paced, growth-oriented environments.