Role Overview for Chief Operating Officer – San Diego, CA
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a pioneering, high-growth medical device company based in the vibrant life sciences hub of San Diego, CA. We are conducting an executive search for a dynamic and visionary Chief Operating Officer (COO) to join their executive leadership team. This is a pivotal role for an individual with a profound understanding of the medical device industry and a proven track record of scaling complex operations from clinical development through to commercialization.
The successful candidate will be the strategic partner to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), responsible for translating the company’s vision into an executable operational strategy. As the COO, you will have complete oversight of all internal operations, including manufacturing, supply chain, quality assurance, regulatory affairs, and project management. You will be instrumental in building a world-class operational infrastructure that is efficient, scalable, and fully compliant with global regulatory standards. Your leadership will directly impact the company’s ability to deliver life-changing medical technologies to patients worldwide.
This position requires a hands-on, data-driven leader who thrives in a fast-paced, innovative environment. You will be tasked with optimizing processes, driving continuous improvement initiatives, and fostering a culture of accountability, quality, and excellence. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of a well-funded, mission-driven organization and build a lasting legacy in the medical technology space. If you are a strategic operator with a passion for innovation and a commitment to improving patient outcomes, we invite you to apply for this career-defining role.
Key Responsibilities of Chief Operating Officer – San Diego, CA
The Chief Operating Officer will assume a broad range of responsibilities, acting as the engine of the organization to ensure all operational aspects are aligned with strategic goals. Key duties include:
Strategic Leadership & Operational Planning
- Collaborate directly with the CEO and other C-suite executives to develop and execute the company’s long-term strategic plan.
- Translate strategic objectives into comprehensive, actionable operational plans with clear metrics, timelines, and resource allocation.
- Establish and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) across all operational departments to drive performance and ensure goals are met or exceeded.
- Lead the annual operating plan (AOP) and budgeting process for all operational functions, ensuring financial discipline and efficient use of capital.
- Conduct regular risk assessments of operational processes and supply chains, developing robust contingency plans to mitigate potential disruptions.
Manufacturing & Supply Chain Excellence
- Provide executive oversight for all manufacturing operations, whether internal or with contract manufacturing organizations (CMOs), ensuring production targets for quality, cost, and delivery are consistently achieved.
- Develop and implement a scalable manufacturing strategy that supports the company’s growth trajectory, including capacity planning and technology adoption.
- Oversee the end-to-end supply chain, including strategic sourcing, procurement, inventory management, logistics, and distribution.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers and CMOs, negotiating favorable terms and ensuring their performance meets stringent quality and reliability standards.
- Implement best practices such as Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methodologies to optimize efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance product quality.
Quality Assurance & Regulatory Compliance
- Champion a culture of ‘quality-first’ throughout the organization, ensuring that all products meet the highest standards of safety and efficacy.
- Oversee the Quality Management System (QMS) to ensure full compliance with all applicable regulations and standards, including FDA 21 CFR 820, ISO 13485, and other international requirements.
- Serve as the executive liaison for regulatory bodies, leading the company through inspections and audits.
- Ensure all operational activities, from design transfer to post-market surveillance, are conducted in strict accordance with the established FDA regulations for medical devices.
- Direct the regulatory affairs team in the preparation and submission of regulatory filings (e.g., 510(k), PMA) to support new product introductions and market expansion.
Team Leadership & Organizational Development
- Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of operational leaders across manufacturing, supply chain, quality, and related functions.
- Foster a collaborative, transparent, and results-oriented culture that attracts, retains, and motivates top talent.
- Implement robust performance management and professional development programs to build organizational capability and support career growth.
- Champion effective cross-functional communication and collaboration with R&D, Clinical, and Commercial teams to ensure seamless product development and launch.
Requirements for the Chief Operating Officer – San Diego, CA
We are seeking an exceptional leader with deep domain expertise and a demonstrated history of operational success within the medical device industry.
Educational & Professional Experience
- A Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Life Sciences, Business, or a related field is required. An MBA or other advanced degree is strongly preferred.
- A minimum of 15 years of progressive leadership experience in operations within the medical device or life sciences industry.
- At least 5-7 years of experience in a senior executive role (e.g., VP of Operations, General Manager, COO) with P&L responsibility.
- Demonstrable experience scaling a company from early-stage clinical development through successful commercialization and high-volume manufacturing.
- Proven experience managing both internal manufacturing facilities and external CMO/CDMO relationships.
Skills & Expertise
Expert Knowledge
Deep, expert-level understanding of cGMP, QMS, ISO 13485, and global medical device regulatory frameworks.
Financial Acumen
Strong financial literacy with experience managing complex budgets, driving cost-reduction initiatives, and improving operational margins.
Strategic Mindset
Ability to think strategically and holistically while also maintaining a strong grasp of the tactical details required for flawless execution.
Leadership Presence
Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills with the ability to inspire and influence stakeholders at all levels, from the board of directors to the manufacturing floor.
Problem-Solving
A data-driven, analytical problem solver who can navigate ambiguity and make sound decisions under pressure.
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 competitive base salary, significant annual performance-based bonus, and a substantial equity/stock option package.
Comprehensive Health Coverage
Premium medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your eligible dependents.
Retirement Savings
A 401(k) plan with a generous company match to help you plan for your future.
Work-Life Balance
A generous paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick leave, and paid company holidays.
Relocation Support
A comprehensive relocation package is available for the ideal candidate and their family.
Professional Growth
Opportunities for continued professional development, including executive coaching and attendance at industry conferences.
Impactful Work
The opportunity to be a key leader in a company that is making a tangible difference in the lives of patients.
How to Apply
JRG Partners is leading the exclusive search for this Chief Operating Officer position. If you are a qualified and passionate operations executive with the requisite experience in the medical device sector, we encourage you to apply.
To be considered for this exceptional opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and leadership philosophy. All applications will be treated with the strictest confidence. For more information or to explore other opportunities within our specialized practice areas, please visit our page on medical device executive search.
