Role Overview for Chief Operating Officer – Industrial Distribution – Houston, TX
JRG Partners, a premier executive search firm, is proud to partner with a market-leading, privately-held industrial distribution company in their search for a transformational Chief Operating Officer (COO). Based in the dynamic economic hub of Houston, Texas, our client is a multi-site, multi-state organization renowned for its commitment to quality, customer service, and innovation. With a robust history of growth and a strategic vision for aggressive expansion, they are seeking a world-class operational leader to help architect and execute the next phase of their success.
The Chief Operating Officer will serve as a key member of the executive leadership team, reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO). This is a pivotal role responsible for the entire scope of the company’s operations, including supply chain, logistics, warehousing, inventory management, customer service, and safety across all locations. The ideal candidate will be a strategic thinker with a hands-on, metrics-driven approach, capable of translating high-level business strategy into flawless operational execution. You will be the driving force behind scaling operations, implementing best-in-class processes, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement and accountability. This position offers a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on the company’s trajectory, profitability, and market position while leading a dedicated and talented team.
Key Responsibilities of Chief Operating Officer – Industrial Distribution – Houston, TX
The COO will have a broad and challenging mandate, with responsibilities that span strategic leadership, operational execution, and cultural development. Success in this role will be measured by improvements in efficiency, profitability, customer satisfaction, and employee engagement.
Strategic Leadership & Execution
Collaborate with the CEO and executive team to develop and implement the company’s long-term strategic plan. Translate strategic goals into actionable operational plans, setting clear objectives and key performance indicators (KPIs) for all operational departments. Drive the company to achieve and surpass sales, profitability, cash flow, and business goals and objectives.
Operational Excellence & Process Improvement
Lead a comprehensive review of all current operational processes to identify opportunities for enhancement, efficiency gains, and cost reduction. Champion and implement Lean methodologies, Six Sigma principles, or other continuous improvement frameworks across the organization. Standardize best practices across all distribution centers and branch locations to ensure consistency and quality. This includes driving industry best practices in warehouse management, logistics, and supply chain.
Supply Chain & Inventory Management
Oversee the end-to-end supply chain, including procurement, logistics, transportation, and inventory control. Develop and execute sophisticated inventory management strategies to optimize turns, reduce carrying costs, and ensure high service levels. Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers and logistics partners.
Financial & P&L Management
Assume full P&L responsibility for the operational side of the business. Develop and manage annual operating budgets, capital expenditure plans, and financial forecasts. Rigorously analyze operational performance against budget, identifying variances and implementing corrective actions to ensure financial targets are met or exceeded.
Technology & Systems Optimization
Evaluate and champion the adoption of new technologies, including Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) enhancements, and automation to improve productivity and data visibility. Leverage data analytics and business intelligence tools to drive informed decision-making and predictive insights.
Team Leadership & Talent Development
Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of operational leaders. Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous learning. Implement robust talent management processes, including performance management, succession planning, and professional development programs, to build a strong leadership pipeline.
Customer Satisfaction & Service Delivery
Ensure that all operational functions are aligned to deliver a superior customer experience. Monitor service levels, on-time delivery metrics, and order accuracy, implementing initiatives to drive continuous improvement and exceed customer expectations.
Safety, Compliance & Risk Management
Uphold and promote a world-class safety culture across the organization. Ensure all operations comply with federal, state, and local regulations, including OSHA and DOT standards. Develop and implement comprehensive risk management and business continuity plans.
Mergers & Acquisitions Integration
Play a key role in the due diligence and operational integration of potential acquisitions, ensuring a seamless and efficient consolidation of new businesses into the existing operational framework.
Requirements for the Chief Operating Officer – Industrial Distribution – Houston, TX
We are seeking a seasoned and proven executive with a deep understanding of the complexities of industrial distribution. The successful candidate will possess a unique blend of strategic acumen, operational expertise, and inspirational leadership.
Experience
A minimum of 15+ years of progressive leadership experience in operations, with at least 7-10 years in a senior executive role (e.g., COO, VP of Operations, General Manager) with full P&L responsibility. Direct experience within the industrial distribution, wholesale, or a related B2B product-centric industry is mandatory.
Education
A Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Engineering, or a related field is required. An MBA or other advanced degree is highly preferred.
Leadership Skills
Demonstrated ability to lead, inspire, and develop large, multi-site teams. A proven track record of building a positive and high-performance culture based on accountability and trust. A true servant leader.
Strategic & Financial Acumen
Strong strategic thinking skills with the ability to see the big picture and translate it into operational reality. Extensive experience with budgeting, forecasting, and P&L management in an organization of significant scale.
Process Improvement Expertise
Verifiable track record of successfully implementing continuous improvement initiatives (Lean, Six Sigma, Kaizen) that have resulted in measurable gains in efficiency, cost savings, and quality.
Technical Proficiency
Deep knowledge of modern ERP and WMS platforms. Proficient in using data analytics to drive business decisions and performance improvements.
Communication Skills
Exceptional interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills. The ability to articulate a clear vision and effectively influence stakeholders at all levels, from the warehouse floor to the boardroom.
Change Management
Proven experience leading an organization through significant change, such as rapid growth, system implementations, or M&A integration.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top-tier talent and offers a highly competitive and comprehensive compensation and benefits package, including:
Executive Compensation
A competitive base salary complemented by a significant performance-based annual bonus and a long-term incentive plan (LTIP) or equity participation.
Comprehensive Health Coverage
Premium medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your eligible dependents.
Retirement Savings
A robust 401(k) plan with a generous company match to help you plan for your future.
Paid Time Off
An executive-level paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick leave, and paid holidays.
Relocation Assistance
A comprehensive relocation package is available for the ideal candidate and their family.
Professional Development
Support for continuing education, executive coaching, and participation in industry conferences and associations.
Additional Perks
Company-provided vehicle or allowance, life insurance, and disability coverage.
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 driving excellence in the industrial distribution sector, we encourage you to apply. To be considered for this confidential opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your qualifications and accomplishments.
JRG Partners is a leader in connecting exceptional talent with outstanding opportunities. To learn more about our expertise in this sector, please visit the JRG Partners’ Industrial & Manufacturing Practice page. We look forward to reviewing your application.
