Chief Operating Officer (COO) – Food & Beverage Manufacturing

Are you an accomplished leader in the Food & Beverage manufacturing industry with a passion for driving operational excellence? We are seeking a results-driven Chief Operating Officer (COO) to lead and optimize operations for a fast-growing company in Los Angeles, CA. This is a prime opportunity to oversee production strategies, enhance supply chain efficiency, and foster innovation in a highly competitive market. If you excel at strategic planning, team leadership, and process improvement, this COO role is the perfect next step in your career.

Lead Operational Growth as a Chief Operating Officer (COO) in Food & Beverage Manufacturing – Los Angeles

A leading Food & Beverage manufacturing company in Los Angeles, CA is looking for a visionary Chief Operating Officer (COO) to drive operational strategies, streamline production processes, and boost profitability. The ideal candidate will have proven expertise in manufacturing operations, supply chain management, and quality assurance, coupled with strong leadership skills. If you are passionate about sustainable growth, operational innovation, and delivering excellence, this is your chance to make a significant impact in the Food & Beverage industry.

Key Responsibilities of the Chief Operating Officer (COO) – Food & Beverage Manufacturing

Operational Strategy & Execution: Develop and implement effective operational strategies to enhance production efficiency, streamline processes, and support the company’s growth objectives.
Supply Chain Optimization: Oversee end-to-end supply chain management, including procurement, inventory control, and distribution, ensuring cost efficiency and timely delivery.
Production & Quality Management: Ensure manufacturing processes meet quality standards, enforce food safety protocols, and drive continuous improvement initiatives to maintain product excellence.
Financial Performance: Collaborate with the CFO to manage operational budgets, monitor expenses, and identify cost-saving opportunities to maximize profitability.
Team Leadership & Development: Lead and mentor cross-functional teams, fostering a culture of accountability, innovation, and collaboration to achieve operational goals.
Process Improvement: Implement lean manufacturing principles and best practices to boost productivity, reduce waste, and enhance operational workflows.
Regulatory Compliance: Ensure strict adherence to food safety regulations, industry standards, and company policies, mitigating risks and maintaining legal compliance.
Technology & Automation: Identify and integrate advanced technologies and automation solutions to improve production processes, data analytics, and operational efficiency.
Vendor & Partner Management: Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers, distributors, and key partners to ensure seamless operations and sustainable sourcing.
Performance Monitoring & Reporting: Establish KPIs, track operational performance, and provide data-driven insights to senior leadership for informed decision-making.

What the Client is Looking for in You

As the Chief Operating Officer (COO) – Food & Beverage Manufacturing, the client is searching for a strategic, results-oriented leader with a strong background in manufacturing operations and supply chain management. You should be a proactive, detail-driven executive who excels at optimizing processes, ensuring product quality, and driving operational efficiency in a fast-paced Food & Beverage environment.

Proven Leadership in Food & Beverage Manufacturing

The client seeks a seasoned operations leader with extensive experience in the Food & Beverage manufacturing sector. You should have a track record of improving production processes, enhancing supply chain performance, and achieving operational excellence. Experience in managing large-scale manufacturing facilities, ensuring quality control, and reducing costs is highly valued.

Strategic Thinker with a Vision for Operational Growth

As COO, you must demonstrate the ability to develop and execute strategic plans that align with the company’s growth objectives. The ideal candidate will have experience in scaling operations, integrating new technologies, and streamlining workflows to boost productivity and profitability. The client values leaders who can anticipate industry shifts and implement innovative solutions.

Strong Financial and Analytical Acumen

The client is looking for a COO with a solid grasp of financial management, operational budgeting, and cost optimization. You should be able to analyze key performance metrics, forecast operational expenses, and identify areas for financial improvement to ensure sustainable growth and profitability.

Ability to Build and Lead High-Performing Teams

Leadership is at the heart of this role. The client seeks someone who can cultivate a collaborative, high-performance culture by mentoring teams, fostering accountability, and encouraging continuous improvement. Experience in managing cross-departmental teams and aligning them with the company’s operational goals is essential.

Expertise in Supply Chain and Production Efficiency

A deep understanding of end-to-end supply chain management, from procurement to distribution, is crucial. The ideal candidate will have experience in optimizing logistics, managing supplier relationships, and implementing lean manufacturing techniques to enhance efficiency.

Commitment to Quality and Compliance

The client values a COO who prioritizes food safety, product quality, and regulatory compliance. You should have extensive knowledge of FDA regulations, HACCP principles, and industry standards, ensuring all manufacturing processes meet legal requirements and uphold the brand’s reputation.

Technology and Innovation-Driven Mindset

The client is looking for a forward-thinking leader who embraces automation, data analytics, and advanced manufacturing technologies. Experience in integrating digital tools to streamline operations, track performance, and support data-driven decisions is highly desirable.

Customer-Focused Operations

An understanding of consumer expectations and market demands is key. The client seeks a COO who can align operational strategies with customer needs, ensuring timely delivery, consistent product quality, and exceptional service standards.

Strong Stakeholder and Partner Relations

The ability to build and maintain relationships with suppliers, distributors, and key stakeholders is vital. The client values a COO who can negotiate contracts, foster partnerships, and ensure seamless collaboration across the supply chain.

Operational Risk Management and Crisis Response

Finally, the client wants a leader skilled in identifying operational risks, developing contingency plans, and responding to production challenges. Your ability to mitigate disruptions, maintain business continuity, and uphold safety protocols will be crucial for the company’s stability and growth.

FAQs About the Role – Chief Operating Officer (COO) – Food & Beverage Manufacturing

1. What are the key responsibilities of the COO in this role?

As the Chief Operating Officer (COO), you will be responsible for overseeing day-to-day operations, optimizing manufacturing processes, and managing the supply chain. Your focus will be on enhancing operational efficiency, ensuring product quality, and driving cost-effective production. Additionally, you will collaborate with senior leadership to align operational strategies with the company’s growth objectives, ensuring seamless coordination across departments.

2. What qualifications and experience are required for this position?

The ideal candidate should have extensive experience in Food & Beverage manufacturing operations or a related field, with a proven track record in managing large-scale production, supply chain logistics, and process improvement. Strong financial acumen, leadership skills, and expertise in regulatory compliance (such as FDA regulations, HACCP principles) are essential. An advanced degree in Business, Operations Management, or Engineering is preferred but not mandatory.

3. What leadership qualities are essential for this role?

The client is looking for a proactive, results-driven leader who excels in strategic planning, team management, and operational innovation. Strong communication, problem-solving skills, and the ability to inspire and motivate teams are key. You should be adaptable, data-savvy, and capable of making informed decisions that drive efficiency and profitability.

4. What challenges can I expect in this role?

As COO, you will face challenges such as streamlining production processes, managing supply chain disruptions, and maintaining strict quality control. Adapting to fluctuating consumer demands, ensuring regulatory compliance, and optimizing operational costs will also be crucial. Additionally, integrating new technologies to enhance manufacturing efficiency may present both opportunities and challenges.

5. What is the expected impact of the COO on the company’s growth?

The COO plays a pivotal role in driving operational excellence and scalable growth. Your ability to enhance productivity, reduce costs, and strengthen supply chain performance directly contributes to the company’s profitability and market competitiveness. Aligning operations with the company’s strategic goals will help position the brand for long-term success.

6. What is the company’s culture and work environment like?

The company fosters a collaborative, innovation-focused work culture. They value leaders who prioritize teamwork, continuous improvement, and accountability. As COO, you’ll have the opportunity to shape operational processes while nurturing a culture of excellence and efficiency, aligning teams with the company’s vision and goals.

What Remuneration Can You Expect from This Job?

As the Chief Operating Officer (COO) – Food & Beverage Manufacturing, you can expect a competitive and rewarding compensation package designed to attract high-caliber operational leaders. The remuneration typically includes:

1. Base Salary

The base salary for a COO in the Food & Beverage manufacturing sector depends on company size, production scale, and market presence. Typically, the annual base salary ranges from $200,000 to $400,000, with larger companies or those experiencing rapid growth offering higher figures.

2. Performance-Based Bonuses

Most COO compensation packages feature performance-driven bonuses tied to key operational metrics, such as manufacturing efficiency, cost reductions, supply chain optimization, and revenue growth. These bonuses generally range from 20% to 60% of the base salary, rewarding leaders for meeting or exceeding strategic goals.

3. Equity & Stock Options

To align executive incentives with the company’s long-term success, many firms offer equity-based compensation — including stock options, restricted stock units (RSUs), or performance shares. Depending on the company’s valuation, these can form a substantial part of your total compensation package.

Some companies provide profit-sharing programs or long-term incentives to encourage sustainable business growth. These plans often focus on multi-year performance, ensuring leadership commitment to ongoing operational excellence.

5. Executive Benefits & Perks
COOs typically receive a robust benefits package, which may include:

Health, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) or pension plans with employer contributions

Executive retirement plans

Company-provided travel allowances or vehicle stipends

Wellness programs tailored for senior leadership

Expense accounts for business travel and industry networking

6. Signing Bonuses & Relocation Assistance

To attract top talent, companies may offer signing bonuses or relocation packages. These can range from $25,000 to $250,000, depending on company needs and the candidate’s expertise.

Total Compensation Potential

When factoring in base salary, bonuses, equity, and long-term incentives, the total compensation for a COO in Food & Beverage manufacturing can range from $350,000 to $1 million+ annually. High-growth companies or publicly traded firms may offer even more lucrative packages.

How to Apply

If you are an accomplished and strategic leader with a strong background in Food & Beverage Manufacturing operations, we invite you to apply for the Chief Operating Officer (COO) role. This is a unique opportunity to drive operational excellence, streamline supply chains, and lead innovative strategies to boost productivity and profitability.

To apply, please submit the following:

Your Resume: Highlight your leadership experience in manufacturing operations, supply chain management, cost optimization, and team leadership.
Cover Letter: Detail your strategic accomplishments—such as improving operational efficiency, launching new production lines, or scaling manufacturing processes. Demonstrate how your leadership has driven growth and innovation in the Food & Beverage industry.

This role offers a high-impact leadership position where you’ll be instrumental in enhancing operational efficiency, fostering innovation, and contributing to the company’s long-term success.

Apply now to take the next step in your executive career as a Chief Operating Officer (COO) – Food & Beverage Manufacturing!

For more details or to explore similar opportunities, visit our Executive Leadership Careers Page.

Job Category: Food & Beverage Manufacturing

Job Type: Full Time

Job Location: Los Angeles

Chief Operating Officer (COO) – Food & Beverage Manufacturing – Los Angeles, CA