Chief Operating Officer

The OpportunityAre you a proven operational leader who can balance strategic vision with hands-on delivery? This is a rare opportunity to join a private equity-backed food distribution business with revenue exceeding £40M, at a critical juncture of growth and operational optimisation.You will take full ownership of the operational agenda, drive efficiency and embedding best practice across the organisation. Margins in trading environments demand precision and discipline — your ability to identify opportunities, implement robust processes, and inspire cultural alignment will be pivotal. This is not a role for a theorist; it requires a leader who can combine board-level gravitas with practical execution.Key Accountabilities:Shape and deliver an operational strategy that enhances profitability and scalability.Lead transformation initiatives across supply chain, logistics, and distribution.Introduce structure and governance without compromising agility.Engage and influence a capable team, fostering collaboration and accountability.Ensure compliance and operational resilience in a dynamic market.Your ProfileExtensive experience in senior operational leadership within FMCG, food distribution.A track record of success in both structured corporate environments and more entrepreneurial, hands-on settings.Strong commercial acumen, with the ability to translate data into actionable insight.Skilled in cultural change and stakeholder management at all levels.Exposure to private equity-backed businesses is advantageous.Why This Role?Opportunity to make a measurable impact in a growth-focused organisation.Work closely with the owner who values pragmatism and results.Flexible working arrangements, with high-quality accommodation provided for candidates travelling to site.