Chief Operating Officer (Private Equity Backed, Industrial Services Platform)

Kensington Executive Search - Houston, TX

Full-time - Executive

Houston, TX

About the position

The Chief Operating Officer (COO) position is a pivotal role within a leading provider of on-site industrial services across the Gulf region, which is currently backed by a prominent private equity firm. The company is in the early stages of a significant scaling process, aiming to enhance its operational capabilities and expand its market presence. The COO will be responsible for overseeing all operations within the organization, which includes managing a branch network and a workforce of over 500 field-based employees. This role presents a unique opportunity for the successful candidate to step into a healthy and profitable company that is well-positioned for continued growth and success in the industrial services sector. The ideal candidate will embody the principles of servant leadership, demonstrating a strong commitment to continuous improvement and KPI-based decision-making. They will possess a robust sense of accountability and the ability to collaborate effectively with key managers and external investors to optimize the company's growth potential and profitability. The COO will play a crucial role in ensuring that the ongoing operations of the field services business are managed effectively, with a focus on sustainable and scalable growth. This includes making strategic financial decisions that align with the company's long-term objectives and growth opportunities. Furthermore, the COO will be instrumental in fostering a company culture that emphasizes teamwork, professionalism, mutual respect, and continuous quality improvement. They will be expected to implement enhanced utilization and reporting of KPIs, leveraging data to make informed, real-time business decisions that drive operational excellence and client satisfaction. The position requires a leader who is not only experienced in operational leadership within an industrial services context but also passionate about delivering the highest quality of services to clients while maintaining a strong focus on the company's vision and values.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all operations across the company, including branch network and field-based employees.
• Ensure the growth of the organization is scalable and sustainable.
• Make strategic financial decisions regarding growth opportunities.
• Develop and sustain a company culture of teamwork, professionalism, and accountability.
• Implement enhanced utilization and reporting of KPIs.
• Leverage data to make real-time business decisions.

Requirements

• 15+ years of overall experience in operational leadership roles.
• 5-10 years of experience in an operationally focused leadership role within an industrial services company.
• Proven ability to manage ongoing operations of a field services business.
• Experience in a successful on-site/in-plant services business model during a period of growth.
• Ability to make strategic financial decisions.