Chief Operating Officer

A leading player in the food trading and distribution sector is seeking a Chief Operating Officer to serve as the strategic backbone of their expanding operations.

What you'll do:

As Chief Operating Officer, you will play an instrumental role in orchestrating the day-to-day running of complex operations spanning multiple locations. Your focus will be on optimising every aspect of the supply chain—from manufacturing through warehousing to last-mile logistics—ensuring that each function works harmoniously towards common goals.

• Oversee and optimise end-to-end supply chain processes including manufacturing, logistics, warehousing, and regulatory compliance to ensure efficient delivery of perishable goods.
• Lead daily operations across multiple sites by fostering collaboration among teams and ensuring all activities align with broader strategic objectives.
• Scale operational capabilities to support rapid business growth in FMCG or perishable goods sectors, leveraging deep cold-chain management experience.
• Implement advanced technology solutions such as ERP systems, warehouse management software (WMS), and supply planning tools to drive data-informed decision-making.
• Develop robust production scheduling frameworks and inventory control processes that maximise efficiency while minimising waste throughout the supply chain.
• Collaborate closely with Sales, Finance, HR, and Purchasing departments to ensure operational plans are fully aligned with company-wide strategies.
• Mentor senior leaders across Supply Chain, Production, Logistics, and related teams by providing guidance on best practices and fostering professional growth.
• Champion continuous improvement initiatives focused on operational excellence through process optimisation and adoption of industry-leading standards.
• Ensure compliance with regional and global regulations regarding quality assurance and food safety standards for imported or perishable products.
• Promote a culture of open communication, shared responsibility, and mutual support among all operational staff.

What you bring:

To excel as Chief Operating Officer in this forward-thinking organisation, you will bring extensive experience managing complex operations within food manufacturing or FMCG logistics settings.

• Over 13 years of hands-on experience in operations management with at least 6 years spent in senior leadership roles within relevant industries.
• Demonstrate a strong background in food manufacturing, distribution networks, or FMCG logistics environments where collaboration is key.
• Showcase a proven record of successfully scaling multi-site operations while leading cross-functional teams towards shared objectives.
• Exhibit deep expertise in inventory control methods, import/export logistics processes, warehousing best practices, and production scheduling techniques.
• Bring substantial knowledge of cold-chain management specifically tailored for perishable or imported food items requiring sensitive handling.
• Display proficiency with ERP platforms, warehouse management systems (WMS), and modern supply chain planning tools that enable data-driven improvements.
• Operate as a strategic thinker who excels at aligning diverse teams around common goals through clear communication and empathetic leadership.
• Preferred: Hold an MBA or equivalent advanced degree in business administration, supply chain management or operations-related fields which supports further professional growth.
• Preferred: Have demonstrable experience implementing operational excellence programmes such as Lean or Six Sigma methodologies within large-scale organisations.
• Preferred: Be familiar with regional or global compliance requirements including quality assurance protocols and food safety standards relevant to international trade.

What sets this company apart:

This organisation stands out as a trusted leader in the food trading sector thanks to its unwavering commitment to quality service delivery across every facet of its operation.

What's next:

If you are ready to take on a pivotal role where your expertise can shape the future of a thriving organisation while working alongside passionate professionals committed to shared success—this is your moment!

Apply today by clicking on the link provided; join a team where your talents will be valued from day one.

Due to the high volume of applications we are experiencing, our team will only be in touch with you if your application is shortlisted.