Black Opal LLC which owns the beauty brands BLK/OPL and Fashion Fair, is a leading cosmetics firm in the ethnic cosmetics space. The firm has combined experience of about 80 years, and it focuses on growing the two brands with existing and new consumers. We are dedicated to delivering exceptional products and services that enhance the natural beauty and confidence of our customers. Our commitment to high quality, value pricing and community engagement has positioned us as a prominent player in the global beauty market. We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Chief Operating Officer (COO) to join our executive team and drive operational excellence across our organization.
Position Summary
The Chief Operating Officer (COO) will be a pivotal member of the executive leadership team, responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the company and ensuring the seamless execution of essential business functions. Reporting directly to the CEO, the COO will play a crucial role in company operational efficiency and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. This position requires a visionary leader with a proven track record of managing complex operations within the beauty or affiliate industries, capable of driving growth and ensuring operational excellence.
Key Responsibilities
- Operational Management
- Oversee daily operations of the company, ensuring efficiency, productivity, and compliance with industry standards and regulations.
- Develop and implement operational policies and procedures to enhance performance and optimize resource allocation.
- Coordinate and Supervise as required with department heads to ensure cohesive and effective execution of company strategies.
- Work closely with the CEO and CFO on all matters related to the business.
- Collaborate with the executive team to develop and implement strategic initiatives that align with the company’s vision and goals.
Leadership and Team Development
- Provide strong leadership to the operations team, oversee multiple departments while fostering a culture of excellence, accountability, and continuous improvement.
- Mentor and develop department leaders, ensuring they have the skills and resources needed to achieve their objectives while assisting in removing bottlenecks when necessary.
- Promote a collaborative work environment that encourages innovation and teamwork.
- Demonstrate vision for high level decision making that keeps the company competitive and successful in the marketplace.
Financial Management
- Oversee the preparation and management of operational budgets, ensuring financial targets are met or exceeded.
- Monitor financial performance, analyze variances, and implement corrective actions as needed.
- Work closely with the CFO to ensure alignment between operational activities and financial goals.
Quality Assurance and Compliance
- Ensure all operations meet the highest standards of quality and safety.
- Implement and maintain compliance with industry regulations and best practices.
- Develop and oversee quality assurance programs to continually enhance product and service delivery.
Customer Focus
- Develop and implement strategies to enhance retailer and customer satisfaction and loyalty.
- Ensure that operational activities are aligned with customer expectations and market demands.
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives to elevate the customer experience.
Competencies and Behaviors
Strategic Thinking
- Ability to develop and implement long-term strategies that align with the company’s goals and market trends.
- Strong analytical skills to interpret complex data and make informed decisions.
Leadership
- Proven track record of leading high-performing teams and fostering a positive organizational culture.
- Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills to effectively manage relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
Operational Excellence
- Deep understanding of operational processes within the beauty industry, with a focus on efficiency and quality.
- Strong project management skills to oversee multiple initiatives and drive them to successful completion.
Innovation and Adaptability
- Ability to drive innovation and embrace change in a fast-paced industry.
- Flexibility to adapt to evolving market conditions and business needs.
Financial Acumen
- Strong financial management skills, with experience in budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis.
- Ability to align operational activities with financial objectives to drive profitability.
Customer Orientation
- Deep commitment to understanding and meeting customer needs.
- Experience in developing and implementing customer-focused strategies.
Qualifications
- Specialized Business Degree, Advanced degree in Business Administration, Management, or a related field; MBA preferred.
- Minimum of 10 years of experience in a senior operational leadership role, preferably within the beauty or consumer goods industry.
- Proven track record of driving operational excellence and business growth.
- Strong understanding of regulatory requirements and quality standards in the beauty industry - preferred.
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit their resume, a cover letter detailing their qualifications and experience, and three professional references to (email). Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
We are an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
