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  Job Overview
  Shear International Co. Ltd is seeking a highly experienced and driven Chief Operating Officer (COO) for their Steel Foundry and Iron Casting Factory in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. As COO, you will play a vital role in overseeing the day-to-day administrative and operational functions of the company, ensuring efficient and effective execution of strategic initiatives. You will report directly to the CEO and work closely with other senior leaders to drive growth and profitability. This is a full-time position.
  
  🛠️ Key Responsibilities

📦 Operational Leadership

• Oversee all plant operations including casting production, maintenance, quality control, logistics, and engineering.
• Translate strategic goals into actionable operational plans.
• Monitor and improve KPIs including productivity, yield, downtime, OEE, and cost efficiency.

🏭 Production & Manufacturing Excellence

• Ensure effective planning and execution of foundry operations (melting, molding, fettling, heat treatment, machining).
• Drive lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Ensure production meets customer specifications, quality standards, and delivery schedules.

📈 Strategic Planning & Execution

• Collaborate with the CEO and executive team on long-term planning and expansion strategies.
• Lead operational budgeting, capital expenditure planning, and cost reduction initiatives.
• Evaluate and implement new technologies, automation, and digital tools for operational advancement.

🛡️ Quality, Safety & Compliance

• Ensure full compliance with environmental, health, safety, and quality standards (e.g., ISO 9001, ISO 45001).
• Promote a strong culture of safety and quality across the organization.
• Monitor and address operational risks, including EHS incidents, non-conformities, and equipment failures.

🤝 Team Leadership & Development

• Lead, mentor, and develop department heads (Production, QA/QC, Maintenance, HSE, SCM, HR).
• Create a high-performance culture focused on accountability and excellence.
• Identify skill gaps and oversee training and succession planning.

🔗 Cross-functional Collaboration

• Coordinate with sales, R&D, finance, and procurement teams to align operations with business goals.
• Foster effective internal communication and workflow across all levels of the organization.
• Serve as the primary liaison between executive leadership and plant-level management.

📊 Performance Monitoring & Reporting

• Provide regular operational performance reports to the CEO and Board.
• Analyze production and financial data to make informed decisions.
• Track and report on operational initiatives, improvement projects, and key milestones.
  
  Qualifications
  * Bachelor's degree in Mechanical/Industrial/Metallurgical Engineering; MBA or relevant postgraduate qualification preferred.
• 12+ years of experience in heavy manufacturing/foundry operations, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.
• Proven expertise in steel and iron casting processes, plant operations, and production planning.
• Strong knowledge of industry standards, quality systems (ISO 9001, 14001, etc.), and safety compliance.
• Demonstrated success in change management, operational scaling, and lean implementation.
  * Proven track record of successfully developing and implementing operational strategies.
  * Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate and manage large teams.
  * Excellent financial acumen and analytical skills.
  * Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to build relationships at all levels.
  * Fluency in English is essential; Arabic language skills are highly advantageous.