Freelance Chief Operating Officer (COO) | Long-Term Transformation & Growth Programme | Benelux & France | Antwerp | Hybrid role
I am currently partnering with a private equity-backed international group that is pursuing an ambitious buy-and-build strategy across multiple European markets. To support continued growth and the integration of future acquisitions, they are seeking an experienced Freelance Chief Operating Officer (COO) for a long-term strategic assignment.
The Opportunity
As COO, you will be responsible for driving operational excellence across a multi-country organisation, overseeing supply chain, logistics, warehousing, production, technical services and operational transformation initiatives.
A key focus of the role will be leading the operational integration of acquired businesses, building scalable processes, and establishing the operational platform required to support significant future growth.
Reporting directly to the CEO and working closely with the Board and investors, you will play a critical role in shaping the organisation’s next phase of development.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead operational activities across multiple countries and business units.
- Drive post-acquisition integrations and transformation programmes.
- Develop integration frameworks and governance structures for future acquisitions.
- Oversee warehousing, logistics, transport, inventory management and operational performance.
- Lead manufacturing and technical service operations.
- Establish and monitor operational KPIs, reporting structures and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Drive ERP, WMS, TMS, automation and AI-enabled operational improvement projects.
- Support executive leadership in delivering long-term growth and value creation objectives.
Candidate Profile
- 15+ years of senior leadership experience within supply chain, logistics, distribution, manufacturing or operationally intensive environments.
- Proven track record leading operational integrations within acquisition-led or private equity-backed organisations.
- Previous experience as COO, Managing Director, Operations Director or equivalent executive leadership role.
- Strong experience managing multi-site and multi-country operations.
- Demonstrated success delivering large-scale transformation and change programmes.
- Strong understanding of operational technology, ERP platforms, warehouse management systems and process automation.
- Fluent in Dutch, French and English.
Engagement Details
- Freelance / Interim Executive Assignment
- Long-term strategic mandate
- Based in Antwerp, 3-4 days on-site 1-2 days hybrid.
- Travel to The Netherlands and France is needed
- Direct reporting line to the CEO
- Board-level exposure and influence
- Multi-country scope across Benelux and France
- Significant ownership of operational strategy, integration and transformation
- Opportunity to contribute directly to the group’s growth and value creation journey
This assignment would suit a hands-on executive who combines strategic leadership with operational excellence and has successfully scaled businesses through acquisitions, integration programmes and organisational transformation.