the client is a luxury watch manufacturer in the United Kingdom with a strong heritage and a focus on exceptional craftsmanship. Following recent investment, it is undertaking an ambitious growth plan over the next five years and operates through retail partners, boutiques, and a direct-to-consumer channel. the chief operating officer (coo) will drive operational excellence and support the successful execution of this growth agenda.
the coo will lead and oversee procurement, engineering, manufacturing, quality, and operations, ensuring high standards of quality, efficiency, and innovation. Responsibilities include developing and implementing strategic operational plans to optimize production processes, strengthen supply chain management, and improve overall operational effectiveness; fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation; and establishing and monitoring key performance indicators (kpIs) to measure performance against targets. the role also includes overseeing quality control processes, supporting the adoption of sustainable practices and responsible sourcing in manufacturing, and staying current on industry trends and market dynamics to provide strategic insights to the executive team.
The successful candidate is expected to have significant leadership experience in luxury watch manufacturing and an in-depth understanding of the industry, including production processes and quality standards. The coo should demonstrate the ability to manage and optimize cross-department operations, develop and execute operational plans that support business growth and customer satisfaction, and build high-performing teams. strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential for effective collaboration with cross-functional partners (including design, sales, and marketing) and for maintaining relationships with retail partners and suppliers; a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field is required.