Role Overview for Chief Operating Officer – Minneapolis, MN
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a pioneering, high-growth medical device company in its search for a transformative Chief Operating Officer (COO). Based in the vibrant MedTech hub of Minneapolis, MN, our client is at the forefront of developing innovative solutions that significantly improve patient outcomes. This is a rare opportunity for a seasoned operational leader to step into a pivotal executive role, shaping the future of a company poised for exponential growth and market leadership. The ideal candidate will be a strategic visionary with a proven track record of scaling complex operations within the highly regulated medical device sector.
As the COO, you will be the operational backbone of the organization, reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and working as a key member of the C-suite. You will be entrusted with translating the company’s strategic vision into actionable, efficient, and scalable operational plans. Your leadership will span the entire operational spectrum, from manufacturing and supply chain to quality assurance, regulatory affairs, and post-market surveillance. You will be responsible for driving a culture of continuous improvement, operational excellence, and unwavering commitment to quality and compliance.
This role requires a leader who is not only technically adept in medical device manufacturing and logistics but also a masterful people leader, capable of inspiring and developing high-performing teams. Your success will be measured by your ability to optimize processes, enhance profitability, and ensure the seamless delivery of life-changing products to a global market.
Key Responsibilities of Chief Operating Officer – Minneapolis, MN
The Chief Operating Officer will assume broad responsibility for the company’s operational integrity and performance. Your duties will be comprehensive and critical to our client’s success:
Strategic Leadership & Execution
Collaborate with the CEO and executive team to set and drive the company’s strategic direction, operational goals, and key performance indicators (KPIs). Translate high-level strategy into tangible operational roadmaps and ensure flawless execution across all departments.
Manufacturing & Production Oversight
Lead all manufacturing operations, ensuring production schedules are met while maintaining the highest standards of quality, safety, and efficiency. Implement and refine lean manufacturing principles, Six Sigma methodologies, and other continuous improvement initiatives to optimize throughput and reduce costs.
Global Supply Chain Management
Develop and manage a robust, resilient, and scalable global supply chain. Oversee procurement, inventory management, logistics, and distribution to ensure an uninterrupted supply of materials and timely delivery of finished products. Mitigate risks and build strong relationships with key suppliers and partners.
Quality Assurance & Regulatory Compliance
Champion a world-class quality culture throughout the organization. Ensure strict adherence to all relevant regulatory standards, including ISO 13485 and the FDA’s Quality System Regulation (21 CFR Part 820). Oversee all quality systems, CAPA processes, and regulatory submissions and inspections.
Financial & Performance Management
Hold full P&L responsibility for all operational departments. Develop and manage annual operating budgets, capital expenditure plans, and cost-control initiatives. Utilize data-driven analysis to monitor performance, identify trends, and make informed decisions that enhance profitability and operational efficiency.
Product Development & Commercialization
Partner closely with the R&D and Commercial teams to ensure a smooth transition of new products from design and development through to full-scale manufacturing and market launch. Ensure design for manufacturability (DFM) principles are integrated early in the product lifecycle.
Team Leadership & Organizational Development
Lead, mentor, and develop a high-caliber operational team. Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and innovation. Implement effective talent management strategies, including performance management, succession planning, and professional development programs to build a world-class operational workforce.
Technology & Infrastructure
Oversee the evaluation, implementation, and management of operational technologies, including ERP systems, manufacturing execution systems (MES), and quality management systems (QMS), to drive efficiency and scalability.
Requirements for the Chief Operating Officer – Minneapolis, MN
We are seeking an exceptional leader with a deep understanding of the medical device industry and a history of operational success. The qualifications for this role are stringent and reflect its seniority and impact:
Educational Background
A Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field is required. An MBA or other advanced degree is strongly preferred.
Executive Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive leadership experience, with at least 5-7 years in a senior operational leadership role (e.g., VP of Operations, General Manager, COO) within the medical device industry.
Industry-Specific Knowledge
Demonstrable experience with Class II or Class III medical devices is essential. Deep, hands-on knowledge of FDA regulations, ISO 13485 standards, GMP, and international regulatory requirements (e.g., EU MDR) is mandatory.
Proven Track Record of Scaling
Verifiable success in scaling operations for a high-growth company, including managing facility expansions, implementing new manufacturing lines, and expanding global supply chains.
Operational Excellence Expertise
Masterful knowledge and practical application of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other continuous improvement methodologies. Certification (e.g., Black Belt) is a significant asset.
Financial Acumen
Strong command of financial principles with extensive experience in P&L management, budgeting, forecasting, and capital planning.
Leadership Qualities
A strategic and analytical thinker with exceptional problem-solving skills. A collaborative leader who can build consensus and influence across all levels of the organization. Must possess impeccable integrity, a strong work ethic, and outstanding communication and presentation skills.
Location
The candidate must be based in or willing to relocate to the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top-tier talent by offering a comprehensive and highly competitive compensation and benefits package. This includes:
Executive Compensation
A highly competitive base salary, significant annual performance-based bonus, and a substantial long-term equity/stock option package.
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
Premium medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your dependents, with low employee contributions. Access to wellness programs, HSAs, and FSAs.
Retirement Planning
A robust 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 company holidays, to ensure you have time to recharge.
Relocation Assistance
A comprehensive relocation package is available for the selected candidate and their family.
Professional Development
A dedicated budget for continued learning, executive coaching, and participation in industry conferences to keep you at the forefront of your field.
Impactful Work
The opportunity to play a critical role in a mission-driven company whose products save and improve lives every day.
How to Apply
This is a retained search being conducted exclusively by JRG Partners. If you are a results-oriented, strategic operational leader with a passion for the medical device industry and a proven ability to scale a business, we encourage you to apply.
To be considered for this confidential opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience. For more information on our expertise in this sector, please visit our Life Sciences executive search practice page. JRG Partners and our client are equal opportunity employers. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
