Chief Operating Officer

Role overview

The Chief Operating Officer will serve as a senior leader in a full-time remote capacity, responsible for guiding day-to-day operations and turning strategic priorities into practical execution across the organization.

Core responsibilities

This role involves managing operational planning and delivery, coordinating programs that support Responsible Care® principles, and maintaining strong collaboration with member organizations, partners, and other stakeholders. The COO will also help shape, implement, and review operating policies and procedures, while tracking performance, identifying gaps, and improving overall effectiveness.

In partnership with leadership, the COO will contribute to budget oversight and financial performance monitoring, provide regular reporting on operational results, and support long-term planning, risk management, and resource allocation for the Board. The position also includes leading and developing staff, streamlining workflows and systems, and ensuring the organization remains aligned with its mission and operational goals.

Working arrangement

The role is remote and expected to include regular virtual interaction with national and international stakeholders, along with occasional travel when required.

Qualifications and background

Applicants should bring strong business planning and strategic management capabilities, along with the ability to translate organizational vision into actionable plans. Experience in operations leadership, process improvement, program coordination, and performance tracking is important.

The ideal candidate will have strong analytical judgment for data-informed decision-making and risk assessment, plus solid financial and budgeting experience, including budget management, controls, and resource optimization. Proven people leadership skills are needed, particularly in mentoring and guiding multidisciplinary teams in a remote setting.

Excellent written and spoken communication skills are essential for working with industry stakeholders, regulators, and international partners. Prior experience in the chemical, manufacturing, environmental, or similar sectors is preferred, especially where health, safety, and sustainability frameworks are involved. A university degree in business, management, engineering, finance, or a related discipline is required; an advanced degree or professional certification would be an added advantage.