COO, Aerospace Programs – Dallas–Fort Worth, TX

Role Overview for COO, Aerospace Programs – Dallas–Fort Worth, TX

JRG Partners is proud to represent a premier, forward-thinking aerospace and defense organization in their search for a transformative Chief Operating Officer (COO). Based in the dynamic and strategically vital Dallas–Fort Worth metropolitan area, a global hub for aerospace innovation, this executive will serve as a cornerstone of the senior leadership team. This is a rare opportunity to steer the operational engine of a company at the forefront of designing, manufacturing, and delivering mission-critical aerospace systems and components for both commercial and defense sectors.

The COO will be the strategic partner to the Chief Executive Officer, entrusted with translating the company’s vision into executable strategy and flawless operational performance. This role demands a leader who is not only a master of operational efficiency and complex program management but also a visionary who can anticipate market shifts, drive technological adoption, and cultivate a culture of excellence and accountability. You will have full authority over the company’s day-to-day operations, including manufacturing, engineering, supply chain, quality assurance, and program management. Your leadership will directly impact the company’s profitability, market position, and long-term growth trajectory. We are seeking an individual with the ambition to drive significant enterprise value and the experience to navigate the complexities of the modern aerospace landscape.

Key Responsibilities of COO, Aerospace Programs – Dallas–Fort Worth, TX

The Chief Operating Officer will be accountable for a wide range of critical functions, ensuring the operational integrity and strategic growth of the organization. Key responsibilities include:

Strategic and Executive Leadership

• Collaborate directly with the CEO and Board of Directors to develop and implement the company’s long-term strategic plan, operational goals, and key performance indicators (KPIs).
• Provide decisive leadership in evaluating and pursuing strategic initiatives, including potential mergers, acquisitions, and strategic partnerships to expand capabilities and market reach.
• Serve as a key spokesperson for the company’s operational capabilities to clients, partners, and stakeholders.

Operational Excellence and Execution

• Direct and oversee all daily operations across manufacturing, engineering, supply chain, logistics, and quality assurance departments to ensure efficiency, quality, safety, and cost-effectiveness.
• Champion and implement continuous improvement methodologies such as Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and Theory of Constraints to optimize processes, reduce waste, and enhance productivity.
• Establish and enforce rigorous quality control standards, ensuring all products meet or exceed AS9100, customer, and regulatory requirements.
• Develop and manage a resilient and cost-effective global supply chain, mitigating risks and fostering strong supplier relationships.

Program Management and Delivery

• Provide executive oversight for the entire lifecycle of complex, multi-year aerospace programs, from proposal and inception through to delivery and post-delivery support.
• Ensure all programs are delivered on schedule, within budget, and to the highest standards of quality and customer satisfaction.
• Implement robust program management disciplines, risk mitigation strategies, and performance tracking systems to maintain clear visibility and control over program execution.

Financial and Performance Management

• Assume full P&L responsibility for the company’s operations, driving revenue growth and margin expansion.
• Develop and manage annual operating budgets, capital expenditure plans, and financial forecasts in alignment with strategic objectives.
• Analyze operational and financial data to identify trends, pinpoint areas for improvement, and make informed, data-driven decisions to enhance performance.

Team Leadership and Culture Development

• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing senior operational leadership team, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and accountability.
• Champion a company culture that prioritizes safety, quality, ethics, and employee engagement.
• Implement effective talent management and succession planning strategies to build organizational capability and ensure leadership continuity.

Business Development and Stakeholder Relations

• Partner with the business development and sales teams to provide operational insights and support for new business proposals and contract negotiations.
• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with key customers, including major OEMs, government agencies (e.g., DoD), and Tier 1 suppliers.
• Represent the company at industry conferences, trade shows, and other events to promote its capabilities and enhance its brand reputation.

Requirements for the COO, Aerospace Programs – Dallas–Fort Worth, TX

The ideal candidate will be a seasoned and proven executive with a deep understanding of the aerospace and defense industry. Specific qualifications include:

Education

A Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Aerospace, Mechanical, Industrial), Business Administration, or a related technical field is required. An MBA or other relevant advanced degree is strongly preferred.

Experience

• A minimum of 15-20 years of progressive leadership experience within the aerospace and defense manufacturing sector.
• At least 5-7 years of experience in a senior executive role (e.g., COO, VP of Operations, General Manager) with significant P&L responsibility (ideally $100M or greater).
• Demonstrated track record of successfully managing large-scale, complex engineering and manufacturing operations.
• Verifiable experience with both commercial aerospace and government/defense contracting environments is essential.

Skills and Knowledge

• Expert-level knowledge of modern manufacturing principles, quality management systems (AS9100), and supply chain logistics.
• Deep familiarity with government contracting regulations, including Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS).
• Strong financial acumen with extensive experience in budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis.
• Deep understanding of regulatory frameworks, including those set by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and other international bodies.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and inspire at all levels of the organization.

Personal Attributes

• A visionary and strategic thinker with the ability to execute tactically.
• A data-driven and analytical decision-maker.
• Unquestionable integrity, ethics, and a commitment to excellence.
• Resilient, adaptable, and capable of thriving in a demanding, fast-paced environment.

• U.S. Citizenship is required. The ability to obtain and maintain a government security clearance is mandatory.

Benefits & Perks Offered

Our client offers a highly competitive and comprehensive executive compensation package designed to attract and retain top-tier talent. The package includes:

Competitive Base Salary

An attractive base salary commensurate with experience and market standards.

Executive Annual Bonus Plan

A significant performance-based bonus tied to individual and company achievements.

Long-Term Incentive Plan (LTIP)

Meaningful equity or stock options that provide a stake in the company’s long-term success.

Comprehensive Health and Wellness

Full medical, dental, vision, and life insurance coverage for you and your eligible dependents.

Retirement Savings

A robust 401(k) plan with a generous company matching contribution.

Paid Time Off

A generous paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick leave, and paid holidays.

Relocation Assistance

A comprehensive relocation package is available for the successful candidate and their family.

Professional Development

A stipend for continuing education, executive coaching, and participation in industry associations.

How to Apply

JRG Partners is leading the exclusive search for this critical Chief Operating Officer position. To be considered for this confidential opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and qualifications. We are committed to a transparent and respectful recruitment process. All inquiries and applications will be handled with the utmost discretion. If you are a transformative operational leader ready to make a lasting impact in the aerospace industry, we encourage you to apply.

For more information on our expertise in this sector, please visit JRG Partners’ Aerospace & Defense executive search practice.