Chief Operations Officer
Position Summary
A well-established and growing agriculture company in Kern County is seeking a strategic and results-driven Chief Operating Officer (COO) to partner closely with the executive leadership team in driving operational excellence, long-term growth, and organizational performance. This individual will be responsible for overseeing day-to-day operations across multiple business functions while developing and executing strategies that improve efficiency, profitability, and scalability.
Essential Responsibilities
Partner with executive leadership to develop and execute the company's long-term strategic plan.
Lead daily operations across multiple departments to ensure efficiency, productivity, and operational excellence.
Develop and implement operational strategies that support continued company growth and profitability.
Build, mentor, and develop leadership teams while fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) and utilize data to drive operational decision-making.
Evaluate existing processes and implement improvements that increase efficiency, reduce costs, and improve overall performance.
Collaborate with finance on budgeting, forecasting, capital planning, and operational financial performance.
Oversee resource planning, staffing, and organizational structure to support business objectives.
Ensure compliance with all applicable safety, environmental, labor, and agricultural regulations.
Partner with department leaders to identify risks, solve complex operational challenges, and implement scalable solutions.
Lead cross-functional initiatives and special projects that support strategic growth.
Represent the company with customers, vendors, industry partners, and other key stakeholders as needed.
Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Business, Agriculture, Operations Management, Engineering, or a related field preferred. MBA is a plus.
Minimum of 10 years of progressive operational leadership experience, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.
Previous experience within agriculture, food production, farming, packing, manufacturing, or a related industry is strongly preferred.
Demonstrated success leading multi-site or complex operational organizations.
Strong financial acumen, including budgeting, forecasting, and operational P&L management.
Experience driving organizational growth, process improvements, and change management initiatives.
Proven ability to develop leaders and build high-performing teams.
Excellent communication, leadership, and decision-making skills.
Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with a data-driven approach.
High level of integrity, professionalism, and executive presence.
Agriculture production, farming, packing, processing, or vertically integrated agricultural operations preferred.
Leverage Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement methodologies.
Experience with ERP systems and operational reporting.
Capital project planning and execution experience.
Multi-location operational leadership experience preferred.
Strategic planning and organizational development experience.
Compensation & Benefits
Competitive executive compensation package
Performance-based bonus opportunity
Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits
401(k) with company match
Paid Time Off and company holidays
Executive leadership opportunity with significant influence on the future growth and direction of the organization