Role Overview for COO, Biomedical Manufacturing – Indianapolis, IN
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a pioneering, high-growth biomedical manufacturing organization in their search for a transformative Chief Operating Officer (COO). Based in the vibrant life sciences hub of Indianapolis, IN, this is a career-defining opportunity for a seasoned executive to shape the future of a company dedicated to advancing human health. The COO will serve as a key member of the executive leadership team, reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), and will be entrusted with the full scope of the company’s operational strategy and execution. This role is not just about managing day-to-day operations; it’s about building a scalable, world-class manufacturing and supply chain engine that can support rapid growth, innovation, and global market expansion. The ideal candidate will be a strategic visionary with a deep, hands-on understanding of the complexities of cGMP-regulated environments. You will be responsible for translating the company’s ambitious strategic goals into tangible operational realities, ensuring the highest standards of quality, efficiency, and compliance are met and exceeded. This position demands a leader who can inspire a culture of excellence, continuous improvement, and accountability across all operational functions, including manufacturing, supply chain, quality assurance, regulatory affairs, and engineering. You will be the driving force behind operational scalability, process optimization, and technological innovation, ensuring our client is positioned for sustained success in a competitive global market.
Key Responsibilities of COO, Biomedical Manufacturing – Indianapolis, IN
The Chief Operating Officer will have a broad and impactful remit, overseeing all aspects of the operational infrastructure. Success in this role will be measured by your ability to build robust systems, lead high-performing teams, and drive key performance indicators related to quality, cost, and delivery.
Executive Leadership & Strategic Planning
Collaborate with the CEO and C-suite to develop and implement the company’s long-term strategic plan. Translate corporate strategy into actionable operational objectives, KPIs, and milestones. Assume P&L responsibility for all operational departments, driving financial performance and ensuring budgetary discipline.
Manufacturing & Production Oversight
Direct all manufacturing activities to ensure the safe, efficient, and compliant production of high-quality biomedical products. Champion the implementation of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other continuous improvement methodologies to optimize workflows, reduce waste, and increase productivity. Oversee capacity planning, production scheduling, and resource allocation to meet aggressive growth targets.
Quality & Regulatory Compliance
Uphold an unwavering commitment to quality across the organization. Ensure all operations, from raw material sourcing to final product release, strictly adhere to all applicable regulatory standards. This includes maintaining rigorous compliance with the FDA’s Current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP) regulations, ISO 13485, and other international requirements. You will lead the company through regulatory audits and inspections with confidence and preparedness.
Global Supply Chain Management
Architect and manage a resilient, scalable, and cost-effective global supply chain. Oversee procurement, strategic sourcing, logistics, warehousing, and inventory management. Develop strong partnerships with key suppliers and contract manufacturing organizations (CMOs) to ensure supply continuity and mitigate risks.
Technology & Infrastructure Development
Lead the evaluation and implementation of new technologies, automation, and digital systems (e.g., ERP, MES, QMS) to enhance operational efficiency, data integrity, and decision-making capabilities. Oversee facilities management, capital expenditure projects, and engineering functions to support expansion.
Team Leadership & Talent Development
Build, mentor, and lead a world-class operations team. Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and empowerment. Implement robust training and professional development programs to cultivate talent and ensure succession planning for critical roles. Champion a safety-first culture throughout all facilities.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Serve as a critical link between Operations and other key functions, including R&D, Commercial, Finance, and Human Resources. Ensure seamless communication and alignment to facilitate successful new product introductions, manage product lifecycle changes, and respond effectively to market demands.
Requirements for the COO, Biomedical Manufacturing – Indianapolis, IN
We are seeking a distinguished leader with a proven track record of operational excellence within the life sciences sector. The successful candidate will possess a unique blend of strategic acumen, technical expertise, and inspirational leadership.
Educational Background
An advanced degree (M.S., M.Eng., M.B.A., or Ph.D.) in Engineering, Life Sciences, Business Administration, or a related field is strongly preferred. A Bachelor’s degree in a relevant technical discipline is required.
Executive Experience
A minimum of 15+ years of progressive leadership experience in operations management within the biomedical, pharmaceutical, or medical device industry. At least 7 years of this experience must be in a senior executive capacity (e.g., VP of Operations, General Manager, Site Head) with full P&L and multi-site responsibility.
Regulatory Expertise
Deep, demonstrable expertise operating within highly regulated cGMP environments is non-negotiable. Extensive experience with FDA, EMA, and other global regulatory bodies is essential. Proven success in leading and passing regulatory inspections is required.
Technical Acumen
Strong technical knowledge of complex manufacturing processes, such as sterile manufacturing, biologics processing, aseptic filling, or medical device assembly. Experience with technology transfer and scaling products from clinical to commercial scale is highly desirable.
Leadership Skills
A proven servant-leader with exceptional interpersonal, communication, and presentation skills. Demonstrated ability to build and motivate high-performing teams, drive change management, and influence stakeholders at all levels, including the Board of Directors.
Business & Financial Acumen
Strong command of financial principles, including budgeting, forecasting, P&L management, and capital investment analysis. A data-driven decision-maker with a history of improving operational and financial performance.
Strategic Mindset
Ability to think strategically and holistically while also maintaining a strong grasp of the tactical details. Proven experience in developing and executing operational strategies that align with and accelerate corporate goals.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top-tier executive talent and offers a comprehensive and highly competitive compensation and benefits package, including:
Executive Compensation
A highly competitive base salary complemented by a significant annual performance-based bonus.
Long-Term Incentives
A meaningful equity stake in the company, providing a substantial opportunity for wealth creation tied to the company’s success.
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 matching contribution.
Paid Time Off
A generous PTO policy, including vacation, sick leave, and paid company holidays, to support a healthy work-life balance.
Relocation Assistance
A comprehensive relocation package is available for the exceptional candidate who is not currently based in the Indianapolis area.
Professional Growth
Support for continuous learning, executive coaching, and participation in industry conferences and events.
Impactful Work
The opportunity to play a pivotal role in the growth of a company whose products directly improve and save lives.
How to Apply
This is an exclusive, retained search conducted by JRG Partners. To be considered for this critical leadership role, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and leadership philosophy. All applications will be treated with the strictest confidence. We invite you to learn more about our expertise in this sector by visiting our Best Biomedical Executive Recruiters practice area page. JRG Partners and our client are equal opportunity employers. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. If you are a transformative operational leader ready to make a lasting impact, we encourage you to apply today.
