Chief Operating Officer

Overview:

A leader in high-end interiors specializing in custom kitchens, baths, closets, and bespoke stone and millwork, is seeking a dynamic and hands-on Chief Operating Officer (COO) to drive operational excellence and scalability. The COO will be deeply involved in day-to-day operations while designing and refining systems that enable growth and efficiency across the organization.

This role requires an executive who thrives in a fast-paced, high-touch environment, engages at all levels with personnel, and understands the unique demands of delivering luxury custom projects with precision and quality.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Operational Leadership & Strategy

• Define, implement, and continuously improve processes across all departments: Estimating, Engineering, Design, Sales, Procurement, Logistics, and Installation.

• Engage directly with staff at every level, fostering collaboration and accountability.

• Develop KPIs and reporting systems to monitor operational performance and drive results.

• Align operational strategy with company growth goals while maintaining the company's commitment to excellence and craftsmanship.

2. Department Oversight & Coordination

• Lead, mentor, and support department heads to ensure efficiency, communication, and alignment.

• Oversee seamless hand-offs between design, engineering, procurement, and installation teams.

• Ensure all client deliverables exceed expectations in quality, accuracy, and timeliness.

3. Process Optimization & Systems Development

• Design and implement scalable systems to track projects, manage workflow, and enhance communication.

• Standardize estimating, costing, and procurement workflows using historical data and market analytics.

• Identify operational inefficiencies and develop actionable solutions.

4. Supply Chain & Procurement

• Manage relationships with outsourced manufacturing partners in Europe to ensure precision, quality, and on-time production.

• Oversee complex international logistics, including customs clearance and shipping management.

• Negotiate vendor contracts to secure favorable terms and reliable supply chain performance.

5. Financial Management & Reporting

• Partner with finance to manage budgets, forecasts, and cost controls.

• Analyze financial data and operational KPIs to ensure profitability and healthy margins.

• Provide strategic insights to the CEO on operational and financial performance.

6. Leadership & Culture

• Lead by example with a hands-on approach, engaging directly with teams across departments.

• Promote a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

• Build trust and communication channels to ensure smooth execution of projects.

Required Qualifications:

• 10+ years of operational leadership experience in luxury construction, millwork, cabinetry, stone fabrication, or high-end residential/commercial fabrication.

• Proven ability to develop and implement operational systems in a multi-department organization.

• Strong financial acumen, with a solid understanding of budgeting, forecasting, and cost analysis.

• Excellent leadership, problem-solving, and organizational skills.

• Hands-on and approachable, with the ability to engage effectively with staff at all levels.

• Proficiency in English; Spanish and/or Italian language skills are a strong plus for working with international vendors and partners.

Preferred Skills & Experience:

• Experience with ERP and project management platforms specific to design, construction, or fabrication industries.

• Familiarity with U.S. building codes and installation standards.

• History of scaling operations during growth phases or restructuring environments.

• Strong vendor management and negotiation skills.

Key Attributes:

• Strategic thinker with tactical execution skills.

• Strong communicator with the ability to motivate and align cross-functional teams.

• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and proactive.

• Adaptable and thrives in fast-paced, client-driven settings.

• Passionate about luxury design, craftsmanship, and operational excellence.

RB1554