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Chief Operating Officer
Chief Operating OfficerApex Placement & Consulting • Ferndale, MI, US
Chief Operating Officer

Chief Operating Officer

Apex Placement & Consulting • Ferndale, MI, US
19 days ago
Job type
  • Full-time
Job description

Job Description

Job Description

About the Company

Our client is a leading manufacturer specializing in precision aluminum forging, machining, and finishing for aerospace, automotive, and industrial applications. Known for innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction, they are seeking an experienced Chief Operating Officer (COO) to lead their manufacturing operations, drive strategic growth, and ensure operational excellence across all business units.

Position Summary

The Chief Operating Officer (COO) will oversee day-to-day manufacturing and operational activities, ensuring production efficiency, quality, safety, and profitability. This executive will be responsible for implementing process improvements, optimizing supply chain performance, and aligning plant operations with long-term business objectives. The ideal candidate has extensive experience in forging, aluminum metallurgy, and large-scale manufacturing leadership.

What your day will look like :

  • Provide strategic leadership and direction to all operational departments, including production, engineering, quality, maintenance, supply chain, and logistics.
  • Develop and execute operational strategies to support company growth and profitability objectives.
  • Oversee multiple plant operations, ensuring optimal utilization of equipment, labor, and materials.
  • Lead continuous improvement initiatives, including Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and 5S methodologies, to enhance productivity and reduce waste.
  • Collaborate closely with the CEO and executive team to set performance goals and KPIs for all operational functions.
  • Drive innovation in forging processes, heat treatment, and machining, ensuring world-class quality and compliance with industry standards (AS9100, ISO 9001, IATF 16949, etc.).
  • Maintain strict adherence to EHS (Environmental, Health, and Safety) standards and promote a strong safety culture.
  • Oversee budget development, capital expenditures, and cost control measures.
  • Build and mentor a high-performing operations team that supports scalability and efficiency.
  • Strengthen relationships with key customers, suppliers, and stakeholders to support business development initiatives.

What we are looking for :

  • Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related field (MBA preferred).
  • 15+ years of manufacturing experience, with at least 5 years in senior operations or executive leadership.
  • Proven background in aluminum forging, extrusion, or related metalworking processes.
  • Deep understanding of metallurgy, die design, press operations, CNC machining, and NDT inspection methods.
  • Demonstrated success in process improvement, plant optimization, and strategic expansion projects.
  • Excellent leadership, communication, and team-building skills.
  • Experience in both union and non-union manufacturing environments is a plus.

    • Preferred Qualifications :

  • Expertise in continuous improvement and change management methodologies.
  • Familiarity with ERP / MRP systems and data-driven operational management.
  • Proven ability to lead multi-site manufacturing operations within high-growth environments.
  • Strong financial acumen and experience managing P&L accountability.

    • At Apex, we actively encourage applications from underrepresented groups. Your unique experiences and perspectives are valuable to us, and we’re excited to see how you might contribute to our team. While we have outlined a set of qualifications for this role, we recognize that experience and skills can come from a variety of backgrounds. If you meet most of these qualifications and are eager to learn and grow with us, we invite you to apply.

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    Chief Operating Officer • Ferndale, MI, US