Role Overview for Chief Global Operations Officer – Minneapolis, MN
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a pioneering global medical device company in their search for a visionary and results-driven Chief Global Operations Officer (CGOO). Based in the vibrant med-tech hub of Minneapolis, MN, this executive leadership role is critical to the company’s continued growth, innovation, and mission to improve patient outcomes worldwide.
The CGOO will be a key member of the executive team, reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer, and will hold ultimate responsibility for the strategic direction and execution of all global operations, including manufacturing, supply chain, logistics, quality assurance, and regulatory compliance.
This is a transformative opportunity for a seasoned operations leader to shape the future of a dynamic organization. The ideal candidate will possess a profound understanding of the complexities of the medical device industry, a track record of scaling operations on a global scale, and a passion for driving operational excellence. You will be tasked with building a world-class, resilient, and efficient operational infrastructure that supports rapid product innovation and commercial expansion.
Your leadership will ensure that the company can deliver life-saving and life-enhancing products to patients and healthcare providers with the highest standards of quality, reliability, and cost-effectiveness. You will champion a culture of continuous improvement, accountability, and collaboration across a diverse, international team, ensuring that operational strategy is perfectly aligned with the company’s ambitious corporate objectives.
Key Responsibilities of Chief Global Operations Officer – Minneapolis, MN
The Chief Global Operations Officer will have a broad and impactful scope of responsibilities, encompassing the entire operational lifecycle from procurement to final product delivery. Success in this role requires a strategic mindset balanced with a hands-on, tactical approach.
Strategic Leadership & Execution
Develop and implement a comprehensive global operations strategy that aligns with the company’s long-term vision. Drive initiatives that enhance operational efficiency, reduce costs, improve quality, and support scalable growth. Serve as a key advisor to the CEO and the Board of Directors on all operational matters.
Global Supply Chain Management
Architect and lead a robust, agile, and cost-effective global supply chain. Oversee all aspects of strategic sourcing, procurement, inventory management, demand and supply planning (S&OP), and logistics. Mitigate risks by diversifying the supply base and building strong, strategic partnerships with key suppliers and contract manufacturing organizations (CMOs).
Manufacturing Excellence
Direct all global manufacturing activities across multiple sites, ensuring the highest levels of safety, quality, productivity, and efficiency. Champion the implementation of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other continuous improvement methodologies to optimize production processes and drive down the cost of goods sold (COGS). Oversee technology transfer, process validation, and the scaling of manufacturing for new product introductions (NPI).
Quality & Regulatory Compliance
Uphold an unwavering commitment to quality across the organization. Oversee the Quality Management System (QMS) to ensure strict compliance with all applicable domestic and international regulatory standards. Ensure all operations adhere to a deep understanding of global FDA regulations, ISO 13485, and other relevant medical device directives. Lead the operations team through successful regulatory audits and inspections.
Operational Scalability & Infrastructure
Evaluate and enhance the company’s operational infrastructure, including facilities, equipment, and systems (e.g., ERP, MES), to support future growth. Lead capacity planning and capital expenditure projects to ensure the organization is prepared for market expansion and new product launches.
Financial & Performance Management
Develop and manage the annual operations budget, providing accurate forecasting and ensuring adherence to financial targets. Establish, monitor, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) across all operational functions to drive accountability and measure progress against strategic goals.
Team Leadership & Development
Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing global operations team. Foster a culture of excellence, collaboration, innovation, and employee engagement. Implement robust talent management and succession planning programs to build organizational capability for the future.
Requirements for the Chief Global Operations Officer – Minneapolis, MN
We are seeking an exceptional leader with a proven history of operational success within the highly regulated medical device sector. The ideal candidate will meet the following qualifications:
Educational Background
A Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field is required. An MBA or other advanced degree is strongly preferred.
Executive Experience
A minimum of 15-20 years of progressive leadership experience in operations, with at least 5-7 years in a senior executive role (e.g., VP of Operations, COO, CGOO) with global responsibility.
Industry Expertise
Deep and extensive experience within the medical device industry is mandatory. A thorough understanding of Class II and/or Class III medical device manufacturing, quality systems (QMS), and the global regulatory landscape is essential.
Global Leadership
Demonstrated success in managing complex, multi-site, international operations. Experience working across different cultures and managing distributed teams is critical.
Technical Acumen
Proven expertise in modern operational methodologies, including Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and Total Quality Management. Strong familiarity with ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle), MES, and other manufacturing technologies.
Strategic Vision
The ability to think strategically and translate corporate goals into actionable operational plans. A history of successfully developing and executing long-range operational strategies that drive business results.
Financial Acumen
Strong command of financial principles, including budgeting, P&L management, capital planning, and cost analysis.
Leadership Qualities
Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills. The ability to inspire, influence, and motivate teams at all levels of the organization. A decisive, results-oriented leader with high integrity and a collaborative style.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top-tier executive talent and offers a highly competitive and comprehensive compensation and benefits package, including:
Executive Compensation
A competitive base salary complemented by a significant annual performance-based bonus.
Long-Term Incentives
A meaningful equity package (stock options/RSUs) to ensure alignment with the company’s long-term success.
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
Premium medical, dental, and vision insurance for you and your eligible dependents.
Retirement Planning
A robust 401(k) retirement plan with a generous company match.
Work-Life Balance
A generous paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick days, and company holidays.
Relocation Assistance
A comprehensive relocation package is available for the successful candidate and their family to Minneapolis, MN.
Professional Development
A budget for continued learning, executive coaching, and participation in industry conferences.
Additional Perks
Executive-level perquisites, including wellness programs and other benefits designed to support your success.
How to Apply
This is a retained search being conducted exclusively by JRG Partners. If you are a transformative operations leader with a passion for the medical device industry and the qualifications outlined above, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity. To be considered, please submit your confidential resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and leadership philosophy. JRG Partners is a leader in executive recruitment for the healthcare and life sciences sectors. To learn more about our expertise and view other opportunities, please visit the JRG Partners’ Medical Device Executive Search practice page. We look forward to reviewing your application and discussing how you can make a significant impact on our client’s future.
