Chief Operating Officer

Our Client is beginning their search for a dynamic Chief Operating Officer to help them achieve the next level of growth. Our client, an innovator in the Canadian apparel industry was founded in a college dorm room with an idea; to make better quality custom clothing. Several years (and millions of prints!) later, we’re changing the industry by bringing retail quality garments and high-end decoration methods to every single project we take on.

Our super talented team is what makes us unique. We know that our products are only as good as the people who make them, so we’ve built a business based on the best people for every job. With decades of experience in production, sewing, printing, manufacturing, distribution, marketing, and design – the talent of our team bleeds through every stitch of cotton and every drop of ink.

We are innovative, goal oriented, and are always on the search for energetic and passionate people who are eager to learn and would like to have the opportunity to grow with one of Canada's fastest growing custom apparel companies.

If this sounds like something you’d like to be a part of, read on below to find out more about what we offer and what we’re looking for!

Position Overview: The Chief Operating Officer will provide strategic leadership and operational oversight to ensure the company meets its goals for growth, profitability, and excellence in product quality. This role requires a leader with a thorough understanding of the apparel manufacturing industry, strong business acumen, and the ability to drive operational efficiencies. We are looking for a dynamic leader to join our executive team.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership:

• Develop and implement strategic plans to advance the company's mission and objectives.
• Drive the company to achieve and surpass sales, profitability, business goals, and objectives.
• Provide direction and leadership toward the achievement of the organization's philosophy, mission, strategy, and annual goals and objectives.
• Proactively and collaboratively work with the CEO and CFO to define short-term and long-term growth objectives, translating them into actionable plans.

Operational Oversight:

• Oversee all operation activities to ensure they produce the desired results and are consistent with the overall strategy and mission.
• Direct and manage the company's production operations to ensure efficiency, quality, service, and cost-effective management of resources.
• Implement effective processes and standards for production, quality assurance, and health and safety compliance.
• Managing operational expenses, keeping abreast of taxes, regulatory compliance, production materials, shipping and logistics.
• Oversee manufacturing, logistics and distribution needs. Ensuring efficient flow of goods through raw materials, production processes, delivery to customers as well as order tracking.

Team Leadership and Development:

• Build, lead, and inspire a high-performing team.
• Foster a corporate culture that promotes ethical practices, customer focus, and service.
• Encourage and mentor employees to achieve their highest potential.
• Direct the collaboration of departmental activities to ensure the operational infrastructure of systems, processes, and personnel designed to accommodate the rapid growth objectives of our organization are met.
• Identify and develop new business opportunities to expand the company’s market presence.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key clients, suppliers, and stakeholders.

Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in business administration, Manufacturing, or a related field (MBA preferred).
• Proven experience as a COO, VP of Operations, or similar executive role in the apparel manufacturing industry.
• Demonstrated experience with inventory sourcing involving imports and supply chain activities.
• Strong understanding of corporate finance and performance management principles.
• Demonstrable competency in strategic planning and business development
• In-depth knowledge of corporate governance and general management best practices.
• An entrepreneurial mindset with outstanding organizational and leadership skills.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Strong analytical abilities and problem-solving skills.
• Working knowledge of data analysis and performance/operational metrics
• High proficiency in the Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint).

What we offer:

• Approachable management – our management team has an open-door policy and takes the time ensure each associate’s opinions are heard. Our client ensures every employee has a voice and a purpose.
• A collaborative team environment – we know that we’re only as good as our team, so we invest in great people and have worked hard to cultivate a fun work environment. Teamwork makes the dream work!
• A chance to get involved in a unique area of the fashion industry – we produce custom clothing and products for some of the world’s leading brands and retailers. You can find our products proudly hanging on racks in shopping malls across North America. (You might even own one of our pieces already and not even know it!)
• Company growth – we’re determined to be the best at what we do and have a plan to get there. Our client started from humble beginnings in a college dorm room, and our passion for quality and creative products helps us grow every single day.
• Individual growth – we’re committed to challenging and developing every single employee so they achieve their goals and reach their full potential.

Our Client is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. We consider all applicants regardless of race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, and Indigenous status. We are committed to providing accessible employment practices that are in compliance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). If you require accommodation during any stage of the recruitment process, please let us know.