COO, Furniture Manufacturing – High Point, NC

Role Overview for COO, Furniture Manufacturing – High Point, NC

JRG Partners is proud to partner with a premier, design-forward furniture manufacturer in their search for a dynamic and visionary Chief Operating Officer (COO). Based in the heart of the American furniture industry, High Point, North Carolina, our client is a well-established leader renowned for its commitment to quality craftsmanship, innovative design, and sustainable manufacturing practices. This is a pivotal executive leadership role reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and serving as a key member of the executive team. The COO will be the driving force behind the company’s operational strategy, responsible for translating the company’s vision into exceptional execution across all facets of manufacturing, supply chain, logistics, and quality assurance.

We are seeking an individual who is not just a manager but a transformative leader. The ideal candidate will possess a profound understanding of modern manufacturing principles, a data-driven mindset, and the ability to inspire a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence. You will be tasked with scaling operations, optimizing processes, and enhancing profitability while upholding the brand’s legacy of superior quality. This role requires a strategic thinker with a hands-on approach, capable of steering the company through market shifts, technological advancements, and global supply chain complexities. Your leadership will directly impact the company’s ability to innovate, grow, and maintain its competitive edge in a dynamic global market. You will be the architect of an operational framework that is agile, efficient, and capable of delivering world-class products to a discerning clientele. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of a respected brand and make a lasting impact on the furniture manufacturing industry from its epicenter.

Key Responsibilities of COO, Furniture Manufacturing – High Point, NC

Strategic & Executive Leadership

• Collaborate with the CEO and executive team to develop and execute the company’s long-term strategic plan, ensuring operational capabilities align with growth objectives.
• Provide instrumental leadership in setting company-wide policies, operational goals, and performance metrics (KPIs) that drive efficiency and profitability.
• Serve as a key strategic advisor to the CEO, offering expert insights on market trends, competitive landscape, technological advancements, and operational challenges.
• Champion a culture of accountability, high performance, and ethical behavior throughout the organization.
• Represent the company’s operational interests with key stakeholders, including board members, investors, major clients, and strategic partners.

Operational & Manufacturing Excellence

• Direct and oversee all manufacturing operations, including production planning, scheduling, assembly, finishing, and upholstery departments to ensure production targets are met on time and within budget.
• Implement and refine Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies to optimize workflows, reduce waste, and enhance product quality.
• Drive the adoption of new technologies, automation, and smart factory (Industry 4.0) principles to increase efficiency, improve safety, and maintain a competitive advantage.
• Develop and manage the operational budget, including capital expenditure planning for machinery, facilities, and technology upgrades.
• Ensure all manufacturing facilities comply with safety regulations (OSHA) and environmental standards, fostering a culture where safety is the top priority.

Global Supply Chain & Logistics Management

• Architect and manage a resilient and cost-effective global supply chain strategy for raw materials, components, and finished goods.
• Oversee procurement, vendor management, and strategic sourcing to build strong partnerships, negotiate favorable terms, and mitigate supply chain risks.
• Direct all logistics functions, including inventory management, warehousing, distribution, and transportation, to ensure seamless product flow from production to the end customer.
• Utilize advanced data analytics and forecasting tools to optimize inventory levels, reduce carrying costs, and improve order fulfillment rates.

Financial & Performance Management

• Assume full P&L responsibility for all operational departments, closely monitoring financial performance against budgets and strategic objectives.
• Develop and analyze operational metrics and KPIs to identify areas for improvement, drive cost-saving initiatives, and report on performance to the executive team.
• Lead financial planning and analysis for operations, including budgeting, forecasting, and variance analysis to ensure sound financial stewardship.
• Evaluate and approve capital investment proposals, ensuring a strong return on investment and alignment with strategic goals.

Quality Assurance & Customer Satisfaction

• Champion a company-wide commitment to uncompromising quality, ensuring all products meet or exceed the brand’s high standards and customer expectations.
• Oversee the entire Quality Management System (QMS), from raw material inspection to final product audit, implementing rigorous quality control processes at every stage.
• Work closely with the Product Development and Design teams to ensure manufacturability of new designs while maintaining aesthetic integrity and quality standards.
• Analyze customer feedback, warranty claims, and return data to identify root causes of quality issues and implement effective corrective actions.

Requirements for the COO, Furniture Manufacturing – High Point, NC

Experience

A minimum of 15 years of progressive leadership experience in a manufacturing environment, with at least 7-10 years in a senior executive role (e.g., COO, VP of Operations, General Manager) with full P&L responsibility.

Industry Expertise

Significant experience within the furniture manufacturing industry is strongly required. Familiarity with wood, upholstery, and mixed-material production is essential.

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Engineering, Operations Management, or a related field is required. An MBA or other advanced degree is highly preferred.

Operational Acumen

Demonstrated expertise in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other continuous improvement principles. A certification (e.g., Black Belt) is a plus.

Leadership Skills

Proven ability to lead, mentor, and develop high-performing teams. A track record of building a positive, collaborative, and results-oriented culture.

Financial Acumen

Strong command of financial metrics, budget management, capital planning, and P&L oversight.

Strategic Mindset

Ability to think strategically and translate broad corporate goals into clear, actionable operational plans.

Technical Proficiency

Proficient with modern ERP systems, manufacturing execution systems (MES), and data analytics tools.

Supply Chain Knowledge

Deep understanding of global supply chain management, logistics, and strategic sourcing in a manufacturing context.

Communication

Exceptional communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and build consensus at all levels of the organization. Adherence to industry best practices, such as those promoted by the American Home Furnishings Alliance (AHFA), is expected.

Benefits & Perks Offered

Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top-tier talent and offers a comprehensive and competitive executive compensation package, including:

• Highly competitive base salary and executive bonus program tied to company and individual performance.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance.
• 401(k) retirement plan with a generous company match.
• Significant paid time off (PTO), including vacation, sick leave, and paid holidays.
• Full relocation assistance package for the ideal candidate and their family.
• Generous employee discount on the company’s beautiful furniture products.
• Opportunities for ongoing professional development and executive coaching.
• The chance to work with a passionate, talented team in a dynamic and creative industry.

How to Apply

This is a retained search managed exclusively by JRG Partners. To be considered for this career-defining opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and leadership philosophy. We are looking for leaders who are ready to make a significant impact. If you have the requisite experience in furniture manufacturing and a passion for operational excellence, we encourage you to apply.

For more information or to apply, please visit our practice area page. JRG Partners specializes in connecting elite talent with leading companies in the industrial and manufacturing sectors. Explore our expertise and submit your application through our Furniture and Home Goods Industry Recruiters page.

JRG Partners and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.