Chief Operating Officer

A large, highly complex organization in Riyadh, KSA, is seeking a Chief Operations Officer (COO) to lead enterprise-wide operations and drive operational excellence across multiple services and functions.

Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer, this role is responsible for translating strategy into execution, ensuring efficiency, resilience, quality, and performance at scale.

• Lead and oversee end-to-end organizational operations, ensuring optimal performance across all operational and support functions
• Develop and implement operational strategies, policies, and procedures aligned with overall business objectives
• Drive efficiency, productivity, and cost optimization through continuous improvement initiatives
• Ensure a safe, secure, and well-functioning environment for employees, clients, and stakeholders
• Oversee vendor management and outsourced service contracts, ensuring service quality and compliance
• Establish strong governance, communication, and performance management frameworks across divisions
• Lead risk management, safety, emergency preparedness, and business continuity programs
• Monitor operational KPIs, identify performance gaps, and deliver measurable improvements
• Own operational budgeting, resource planning, and expenditure control across functions
• Build, lead, and retain senior leadership teams while fostering a culture of accountability and operational excellence

• Master’s degree or PhD in Business Administration, Operations Management, or a related discipline
• Minimum 15 years of progressive operations experience, including at least 5 years in a COO or equivalent executive role within a large, complex organization
• Proven experience managing multi-functional, high-scale operations in regulated or mission-critical environments
• Strong track record in operational transformation, process optimization, and strategic execution
• Ability to lead large, diverse teams and operate effectively in high-pressure environments
• Professional certification in Strategic Operations Management or equivalent preferred
• Enterprise-level operational leadership
• Strategic planning and execution
• Change leadership and continuous improvement
• Stakeholder management and negotiation
• Strong people leadership with a focus on performance, governance, and culture
• Data-driven decision-making and operational discipline

📩 Interested candidates or confidential referrals are encouraged to apply or reach out directly.