Chief Operating Officer

Manufacture excellence as you fine-tune the gears of industrial progress.

As Chief Operating Officer, you’ll be the driving force behind streamlined processes and peak productivity. Your strategic oversight will optimise every aspect of the manufacturing chain, from raw materials to finished products, ensuring your company stays ahead in a competitive global market.

As the COO of a manufacturer, you are the driving force behind operational excellence, translating strategic vision into tangible results.

Your role is pivotal in optimising production processes, implementing cutting-edge technologies, and ensuring the seamless integration of all operational aspects to maintain competitiveness in the global manufacturing landscape. A typical day might start with a walk through the production floor, observing processes and engaging with team leaders to identify improvement opportunities.

You’ll likely spend time analysing performance metrics, making data-driven decisions to enhance efficiency and quality. Throughout the day, you might find yourself coordinating with the R&D department to integrate new technologies into existing production lines, or working with the supply chain team to streamline logistics. You’ll also be involved in workforce development, ensuring that your team has the skills needed to operate in an increasingly automated environment.

As manufacturing becomes more complex and globalised, your role in balancing innovation, efficiency, and quality becomes increasingly critical to the company’s success.

Your role may include duties as follows: 

  1. Your success will be partly measured against how well you’re across and enact optimal efficiency and productivity across all manufacturing processes.
  2. You will be required to propose company improvements, and pathways to growth that align with company goals, its culture and the brand.
  3. You will spend significant time implementing and assessing solutions to enhance operational effectiveness.
  4. You will have a number of senior level ‘direct reports’ who will require your leadership, implementation and practice of SOPs.
  5. You will work closely with WH&S team members to ensure a safe, secure and mentally healthy workplace.

The role of COO in manufacturing is a senior position that typically requires a combination of advanced education and substantial industry experience. This is not a direct entry role and often involves progressing through various operational and management positions within manufacturing. Here are the key steps:

  1. Gain extensive experience in various aspects of manufacturing operations, including production, quality control, and supply chain management
  2. Develop expertise in lean manufacturing and continuous improvement methodologies
  3. Build a track record of successfully implementing technological innovations in manufacturing settings
  4. Start in technical or operational roles within manufacturing
  5. Take on progressively larger management responsibilities
  6. Gain experience across different functions (e.g., production, quality, supply chain)
  7. Lead major improvement initiatives or change management projects
  8. Develop strong leadership and strategic thinking skills
Also Known As:
  • Head of Operations
  • Director of Manufacturing
  • Production and Logistics Executive
A Quick Look
Key Skills:

Skills which may benefit anyone considering a job as a chief operating officer include:

  • Analytical skills
  • Collaborative
  • Decisive
  • Innovation
  • Strategic planning
Values & Attributes:

Values and attributes of anyone considering a job as a chief operating officer include:

  • Excellence
  • Efficient
  • Resilient
  • Forward-thinking
  • Ethical
  • Social – “Helper”
Recommended School Subjects:
  • Accounting
  • Business
  • Economics
Core School Subjects:
  • General Mathematics
  • Essential English

Salary Expectations

The expected salary for a Chief Operating Officer can vary across different areas of manufacturing and may increase as you become more experienced.

Low
$120,000
Median
$220,000
High
$350,000

While the COO role typically requires advanced education, starting with VET can provide a solid foundation in manufacturing operations. Consider the following options:

  • Diploma of Applied Technologies (MEM50822)
  • Diploma of Competitive Systems and Practices (MSS50322)
  • Advanced Diploma of Leadership and Management (BSB60420)

These qualifications offer practical skills in manufacturing processes, lean methodologies, and leadership. Many professionals start their careers with VET qualifications and progress to higher education while gaining industry experience.

For aspiring COOs in manufacturing, higher education is often essential. Consider the following options:

  • Bachelor of Business, Engineering or other related qualification
  • Graduate Certificate in Competitive Systems and Practices (MSS80322)
  • Graduate Diploma in Competitive Systems and Practices (MSS80422)
  • Master of Engineering (Manufacturing)
  • Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a focus on Operations Management

These degrees provide in-depth knowledge of manufacturing processes, operations management, and strategic leadership. Many programs offer industry placements or projects, allowing you to apply your learning in real-world settings.

As you progress in your career, consider professional development and certifications such as Six Sigma certification (Green Belt, Black Belt), Project Management Professional (PMP) certification, and Lean Manufacturing certification. Continuous learning is crucial in this rapidly evolving field. Stay updated with the latest manufacturing technologies and management practices through workshops, conferences, and industry publications.

Career progression

In this role, you may have the opportunity to progress to other positions. Career progression opportunities include:

Explore the general manufacturing and engineering industry

The general manufacturing and engineering industry is a diverse and dynamic area that forms the backbone of the country’s industrial capabilities. From precision components to large-scale machinery, this industry encompasses a wide range of activities that drive innovation, productivity, and economic growth across multiple sectors of the economy.

General manufacturing and engineering industry