Role Overview for Chief Operating Officer – Aerospace Components Manufacturer | Greenville, SC
JRG Partners has been exclusively retained to identify a world-class Chief Operating Officer (COO) for a premier, high-growth aerospace components manufacturer located in the vibrant industrial hub of Greenville, South Carolina. Our client is a market leader, renowned for its precision-engineered components and assemblies that are critical to the performance and safety of commercial, military, and space platforms. With a deep commitment to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction, they are poised for significant expansion and are seeking a visionary operational leader to help architect and execute their next phase of growth.
As the Chief Operating Officer, you will serve as a key member of the executive leadership team, reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO). You will be the strategic force behind the company’s entire operational apparatus, with full responsibility for manufacturing, supply chain, quality assurance, engineering support, and program management. This is not just a role about maintaining the status quo; it is about transformation. You will be tasked with building a scalable, world-class operational infrastructure, driving a culture of continuous improvement, and ensuring the organization can meet the increasingly complex demands of the aerospace industry. The ideal candidate is a strategic, hands-on leader with a proven track record of optimizing complex manufacturing environments, implementing lean principles, and developing high-performing teams. This is a unique opportunity to make a substantial impact on a dynamic organization and shape the future of aerospace manufacturing.
Key Responsibilities of Chief Operating Officer – Aerospace Components Manufacturer | Greenville, SC
The COO will have a broad and impactful scope of responsibilities, designed to drive efficiency, profitability, and sustainable growth across the organization. Key duties include:
Strategic Leadership & Execution
Collaborate with the CEO and executive team to develop and implement the company’s strategic plan. Translate high-level strategy into tangible operational goals, metrics, and action plans.
Operational Excellence
Champion a culture of continuous improvement by deploying Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other best-in-class methodologies across all operational functions. Drive initiatives to enhance productivity, reduce waste, and shorten lead times.
Manufacturing & Production Management
Oversee all aspects of the manufacturing process, from raw material intake to final product shipment. Ensure the highest standards of safety (EHS), quality (AS9100), on-time delivery, and cost-effectiveness are met and exceeded.
P&L Management
Assume full P&L responsibility for the company’s operations. Develop and manage operational budgets, capital expenditure plans, and cost-control initiatives to achieve financial targets and maximize profitability.
Supply Chain & Procurement Optimization
Lead the global supply chain function, including strategic sourcing, procurement, logistics, inventory management, and supplier relationship management. Develop a resilient and cost-effective supply chain that mitigates risk and supports production goals.
Quality Assurance & Regulatory Compliance
Uphold and enhance the company’s Quality Management System (QMS) to ensure strict adherence to AS9100, customer requirements, and all relevant Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations. Foster a ‘quality-first’ mindset throughout the organization.
Technology & Innovation
Partner with the engineering team to support New Product Introduction (NPI) and drive process innovation. Identify and champion investments in new technologies, automation, and systems to maintain a competitive edge.
Talent Development & Leadership
Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing operational leadership team. Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and employee engagement. Implement robust talent management and succession planning processes for key operational roles.
Capacity & Resource Planning
Develop and execute long-term capacity plans for facilities, equipment, and personnel to support projected business growth and market demand.
Customer Focus
Work closely with the sales and program management teams to ensure operational capabilities are aligned with customer expectations and contractual obligations, fostering strong customer relationships.
Requirements for the Chief Operating Officer – Aerospace Components Manufacturer | Greenville, SC
We are seeking a seasoned and accomplished executive with a deep understanding of the intricacies of aerospace manufacturing. The successful candidate will possess a unique blend of strategic vision, tactical execution, and inspirational leadership.
Educational Background
A Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Industrial, or Aerospace), Business Administration, or a related technical field is required. An MBA or other advanced degree is strongly preferred.
Executive Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive leadership experience within a complex, high-precision manufacturing environment. At least 5-7 years of experience in a senior site or multi-site operational leadership role (e.g., VP of Operations, General Manager, COO).
Industry Expertise
Demonstrable and deep experience in the aerospace and defense industry is mandatory. A strong background in precision machining (CNC), complex assemblies, fabrication, or composite materials is essential.
Continuous Improvement Mastery
Proven expertise in implementing and leading Lean Manufacturing and/or Six Sigma principles. Six Sigma Black Belt or Master Black Belt certification is highly desirable.
Financial Acumen
Strong command of financial metrics with extensive experience managing a full P&L, developing budgets, and justifying capital investments.
Regulatory Knowledge
In-depth understanding of aerospace quality standards (AS9100), NADCAP, and government regulations including ITAR and EAR.
Leadership Skills
Exceptional leadership and team-building skills with a proven ability to motivate, mentor, and develop talent at all levels of an organization. A track record of driving cultural change and building high-performance teams.
Strategic Mindset
The ability to think strategically, anticipate future trends, and translate vision into actionable, quantitative plans.
Communication
Superior verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively present complex information to the executive team, board of directors, employees, and customers.
Technical Proficiency
Proficiency with modern ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle) and data analysis tools.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top-tier talent by offering a highly competitive and comprehensive compensation and benefits package. This includes:
Executive Compensation
A highly competitive base salary commensurate with experience.
Incentive Programs
A lucrative annual performance-based bonus plan and a significant long-term incentive plan (LTIP), including equity participation.
Health & Wellness
Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance plans for you and your dependents.
Retirement Savings
A robust 401(k) retirement plan with a generous company matching contribution.
Paid Time Off
A generous paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick days, and paid company holidays.
Professional Development
A dedicated budget for executive coaching, industry conferences, and continuing education to support your professional growth.
Relocation Assistance
A comprehensive relocation package is available for the successful candidate and their family to move to the beautiful Greenville, SC area.
How to Apply
This is an exclusive search conducted by JRG Partners. If you are a transformative operational leader with a passion for the aerospace industry and a track record of delivering exceptional results, we encourage you to apply for this confidential opportunity. To be considered, please submit your resume and a compelling cover letter outlining your qualifications and accomplishments.
For more information about our expertise in this sector, please visit the JRG Partners’ COO Executive Search Practice page. We look forward to reviewing your application and discussing how you can lead our client’s operations to new heights.
