Chief Operations Officer

Job DetailsJob Location: Schofield, WI 54476Crystal Finishing Systems is seeking a Chief Operations Officer (COO) to lead and scale multi‑site manufacturing and finishing operations. This executive role is responsible for operational performance, safety, quality, and continuous improvement while aligning operations with long‑term business strategy. Reporting to the President, the COO provides direct leadership to Plant Managers and the Quality function and serves as a key member of the executive leadership team. Key Responsibilities Operational & Plant Leadership Provide executive oversight of multi-site manufacturing and finishing operations Lead, develop, and hold Plant Managers accountable for safety, quality, delivery, productivity, and cost Establish and track KPIs aligned with company strategy and customer expectations Standardize best practices while allowing site-level flexibility Safety, Quality & Compliance Champion a strong safety culture and ensure compliance with OSHA, environmental, and internal standards Provide executive oversight of the Quality Management function Drive continuous improvement in quality, yields, and corrective/preventive actions Continuous Improvement & Strategy Lead lean manufacturing, waste reduction, and process optimization initiatives Translate strategic objectives into executable operational plans Support capital investments, capacity expansion, and new customer or program launches Partner on M&A or integration activities as needed Financial & Cross-Functional Leadership Own operational performance against budget (labor, scrap, rework, overhead, throughput) Identify cost-reduction opportunities without sacrificing safety or quality Collaborate closely with Sales, Engineering, Materials, HR, and Finance Serve as a senior escalation point for operational or customer issues Talent & Culture Build strong leadership pipelines through coaching and succession planning Promote accountability, engagement, and continuous learning Model and reinforce company values and long-term vision Qualifications Qualifications Bachelor’s degree required (Engineering, Operations, Business, or related); MBA preferred 10+ years of progressive leadership experience in manufacturing or industrial operations Proven experience leading Plant Managers and Quality functions in multi-site environments Experience with aluminum extrusion required; metal finishing or job-shop manufacturing strongly preferred Strong business acumen with the ability to balance strategic vision and operational detail Demonstrated success driving continuous improvement and change Exceptional leadership, communication, and decision-making skills Why Crystal Finishing Systems This is an opportunity to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of a growing, customer-focused manufacturing organization—leading talented teams, optimizing complex operations, and driving long-term value. Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance Company Paid Employee Life Insurance Additional Employee, Spouse and Child Life Insurance options Optional Accident, Indemnity, and Critical Illness Insurance Pharmacy Benefit Management Prescription Drug Benefits 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan with Employer Match Paid Time Off 8 Paid Holidays per year Health Savings Plans (HSA, FSA and Dependent Flexible Spending Accounts) Tuition Assistance Wellness Programs - including onsite Healthcare Clinics and Gyms Free Physical Therapy Apprenticeship Programs On-Site Cookouts and Celebrations And more!   Your work helps continue a family legacy of quality and craftsmanship. THE FINE PRINT All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of a pre-employment physical and drug screen. Crystal Finishing Systems provides equal employment opportunities to all team members and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. Crystal Finishing Systems participates in E-Verify.