Defining the qualities of an effective chief financial or technology officer can be a relatively simple exercise. Such positions come with easily defined responsibilities that map to quantifiable skills. However, it can be difficult to nail down the required expertise for other more nebulous roles. The position of chief operations officer certainly falls into this category.
This vague title often confounds internal human resources personnel. From the name alone it was seem that individuals who fill this role must act as omnipotent administrators and oversee every aspect of the business. How are you supposed to find a C-level candidate with the ability to do literally everything?
In reality, COOs have more defined responsibilities. Generally, these individuals act as second in command and execute tasks that fall beneath the purview of the CEO, according to Inc. COOs perform some other key duties that correlate comfortably to these measurable qualities:
Strategic and detail-oriented
These executive leaders have the experience and skills to unite disparate departments to accomplish overarching business goals. This requires strategic thinking and attention to detail, as COOs must not only oversee large moving parts but also have the insight and focus to get granular and work out operational kinks, Entrepreneur reported.
As you review potential talent, look for problem solvers with high-level business development and planning experience. These kinds of executives can effectively address a wide range of issues, both big and small.
"COOs deal with high-level execution, meaning they alone can facilitate change across the organization."
Flexible
Again, COOs deal with high-level execution, meaning they are the ones who facilitate change across the organization. When market conditions shift, making operational modifications necessary, these business leaders lead the charge. With this in mind, you must find candidates who are adaptable and comfortable dealing with fluid situations, according to Harvard Business Review.
Resilient
The professionals who fill the role of COO often act as liaisons between ground-level executors and the big-picture thinkers in the C-suite. Of course, this can make for stressful situations that sometimes end with both parties unloading on the messenger.
Potential hires should be able to stand tall in the face of misguided abuse and broker solutions that not only benefit the business but satisfy executives and middle management.
Now that you have a handle on the qualities that make a good COO, it's time to start the search. YES Partners can help. Our global executive search consultants can connect you candidates who have the executive experience to transform your operation and facilitate growth.
To see some of the roles we have already successfully placed, click here.
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