What does a COO do?

Chief operating officers are one of the highest-ranking executives in an organization’s hierarchy and are responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the business. They play a lead role in major decision-making and provide oversight in core areas such as administration, facilities, budgeting, logistics, and human resources. They ensure systems are running properly in a safe and efficient manner. They implement policies and routines for managing resources, equipment, and personnel.

Chief operating officers typically have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in a business field, although an MBA or other advanced degree is often expected. These roles require organized administrators with strong leadership capabilities. They must be able to monitor details of complex administrative projects while also focusing on “big picture” issues like long-term strategic planning.

What responsibilities are common for COO jobs?
  • Serve as a liaison between the President, staff, and Board.
  • Work closely with field managers and tax preparers to resolve payment shortages timely.
  • Prepare agendas and content/presentations for board, senior team, and other key meetings. ensure clear actions and follow up.
  • Collaborate with stakeholders to ensure tasks are assigned and actioned.
  • Refine and communicate CEO priorities or company positioning to the company or the marketplace.
  • Support analysis of, and reporting on, the organization's operations and key decisions.
  • Organize and structure work assignments of cash research personnel to ensure all department.
  • Respond to internal/external inquiries within 2 business days ' Perform other duties as required.
  • Order replacement units as needed for each store and train staff on how to use same.
  • Will be a key partner with the treasury team in dealing with our depository banks.
  • Develop and manage communications on behalf of the CEO.
  • Ensure all reading materials meet company wide standards for high impact meetings.
  • Collaborate with members of the senior team to align cross-functional objectives and priorities with the overall goals of the organization.
  • Generate and analyze reports to identify problems and trends in shortage management and staff.
  • Responsible for the performance management, hiring and discipline of subordinate employees.
  • As appropriate or interested, work directly with client teams on client needs.
  • Ensure meetings requested with CEO are relevant, well structured and that participants are prepared.
  • Create and reviews the operations budget with executive team.
  • Act as a positive role model and mentor for both staff and students.
  • Support operationalization of new business areas. perform diligence for new corporate development opportunities.
  • Act as a strategic advisor and liaison to CEO.
What are the typical qualifications for COO jobs?
  • Bachelor's or Graduate's Degree in business, business administration, or engineering.
  • A confident, natural leader and problem solver with demonstrated critical thinking and collaboration skills.
  • Able to lead and guide an operations team and drive operations management strategy.
  • Advanced comprehensive operations skills and solid business acumen.
  • Able to multitask and manage multiple important tasks simultaneously.
EducationBachelor's Degree
Work/Life Balance
4.3 ★
Salary Range--
Career Opportunity
4.4 ★
Avg. Experience8+ years

COO Salaries near United Kingdom

Average Base Pay

£143,371 /yr
Not including cash compensation
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Not enough salaries reported to show distribution
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Glassdoor Estimated Salary

COO Career Path

Learn how to become a COO, what skills and education you need to succeed, and what level of pay to expect at each step on your career path.

Chief Operating Officer
£116,944/yr
Deputy Chief Operating Officer
£84,733/yr
COO

Years of Experience Distribution

0 - 1
0%
2 - 4
26%
5 - 7
30%
8+
44%
Not including years spent in education and/or training

COO Insights

Read what COO professionals have to say about their job experiences and view top companies for this career.
One League (California)
Chief of Staff
30 May 2023

“Each member actively seeks opportunities to support one another and provide the best possible assistance to our fellows.”

Arise VascularArise Vascular
Chief Operating Officer
6 Oct 2022

“I learned a lot and was given many opportunities to take on tasks that helped my career.”

SantanderSantander
Chief Operating Officer
11 Aug 2021

“The pay isn’t the best considering other companies pay way more for the same role.”

Human AgencyHuman Agency
Chief of Staff
18 Jan 2022

“It is a great place to work and bring ones' skillsets to the market in order to do good by doing well.”

Carolina Recording Systems
Chief Operating Officer
1 Dec 2021

“CRS is passionate about serving customers and making sure that employees find meaning and purpose in both their career and life.”

Check Point Software TechnologiesCheck Point Software Technologies
Chief Operating Officer
8 Mar 2022

“i don't relly like the job and the people was nice and boring”

Pepperl+FuchsPepperl+Fuchs
Chief Operating Officer
11 Oct 2021

“pay nice good benfits and clothes”

Kuali
Chief Operating Officer
10 Jan 2023

“We have multiple product families that each have great opportunities but we don't have the capacity to move them all forward with the same energy.”

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COO Interviews

Frequently asked questions about the role and responsibilities of chief operating officers

The typical day of a chief operating officer (COO) is spent overseeing the operations of other departments, including sales, marketing, production, and research and development. The COO works closely with the CEO as second-in-command, handling a diverse range of tasks throughout the day.

Chief operating officers have a broad range of responsibilities that can keep their work interesting. At the level of a COO, employees enjoy the benefits of a top rank in the company. One advantage of being a chief operating officer is the unique opportunity to help shape the future of the business.

Yes, the average pay for chief operating officers is £143,371 a year. The highest-paying industries are typically professional, scientific, and technical services and manufacturing. To become a COO, you must have extensive managerial experience. Holding a master's degree may increase your earnings potential.

Working as a chief operating officer requires an intimate knowledge of the operating system, organisational structure, and business plan of a company. This requires a lot of knowledge and responsibility, which can create a high-pressure work environment. Another challenge of being a COO is working long hours, as this is a crucial job with a lot of responsibility.

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