Chief Operating Officer (COO) Career Guide

What is a chief operating officer?

A chief operating officer, or COO, is basically the second boss in a company, right after the CEO (the main boss). They’re the ones who make sure everything in the company runs smoothly day-to-day. Think of them as the bridge that connects the big plans the CEO dreams up with the actual work that needs to happen to make those dreams a reality.

Duties and responsibilities

• Manage daily stuff: The COO handles the everyday tasks of the company. They look after different areas like making products, handling supplies, managing people, and taking care of customers. Exactly what they do can change depending on where they work.
• Make things better: They find problems and fix them to make the company work better. This includes keeping an eye on the money and making sure the company makes a profit without spending too much.
• Work with others: They don’t work alone. These execs work closely with other top managers and team leaders to make sure everyone is on the same page and the company’s goals are met.

Work environment

COOs work in offices where things can get really busy. They have to be sharp and ready to make big decisions quickly. Their job isn’t just sitting at a desk; they meet a lot of people, solve big problems, and make sure all parts of the company are working well together.

Typical work hours

Being a COO means working a lot, often more than just 40 hours a week. They might have to work nights or weekends sometimes, especially if something big is going down or there’s an emergency. In places like hospitals or factories that never close, they must be ready to jump in any time something comes up.

---

How to become a chief operating officer

Want to be the boss who makes sure everything in a company runs like clockwork? Here’s how you can work your way up to becoming a COO:

Step 1: Earn a bachelor’s degree

Start with a bachelor’s degree in something like business administration or finance. This will teach you the basics of how businesses work. Courses on managing operations or planning strategies are super helpful too.

Step 2: Gain work experience

Next up, get some real work experience. You’ll need to spend some time in management roles, learning the ropes and understanding what daily operations look like in a business.

Step 3: Consider more schooling

Many big companies like their COOs to have an MBA or another advanced degree. This kind of degree digs deeper into how to lead and manage in complex situations.

Step 4: Work your way up

You’ll need to climb the ladder. Start as a manager, move up to a director or a vice president role, and so on. Each step should help you build the skills you need to run a company’s operations someday.

Step 5: Network, network, network

Getting to be a COO isn’t just about what you know, but who you know. Go to industry events, keep in touch with your professional contacts, and don’t be shy about joining discussions that matter in your field.

Step 6: Keep learning

Business changes fast, so stay sharp by continuing to learn. Workshops, new courses, reading up on industry news, or finding a mentor can all keep you at the top of your game.

Step 7: Apply for COO jobs

When you’ve got the right mix of education, experience, and connections, start applying for COO jobs. Use your network to find opportunities and get your foot in the door.

---

How much do chief operating officers make?

COOs compensation can vary significantly based on many factors. Experience is a prime influencer; seasoned pros typically command higher salaries than those just stepping into the role. Education also plays a part, with advanced degrees like an MBA often leading to higher compensation.

Industry is another critical factor; those in tech or healthcare may earn more than those in retail or manufacturing. Their geographical location is not to be overlooked; larger cities with a higher cost of living generally offer better pay. Bonuses, profit-sharing, and stock options can also substantially boost their total earnings.

Browse COO salary data by market

---

Types of chief operating officers

Being a COO can look pretty different depending on what kind of company you’re in. Here are some common types:

Manufacturing COO

These COOs make sure that everything in the manufacturing process—from planning what to produce to making sure it’s high quality and managing stock—runs without a hitch. Their main job is to keep production lines moving so that products are ready and up to standard on time.

Technology COO

In tech companies, COOs have a cool job of overseeing software development and making sure the company’s tech infrastructure is up to snuff. They also manage IT teams and make sure new tech developments fit well with the company’s goals.

Healthcare COO

Healthcare COOs need to know a lot about how healthcare systems work. They manage everything in hospitals or clinics, from how patients are cared for to making sure everything complies with health laws and regulations.

Financial COO

These execs work in places like banks or investment firms. They handle day-to-day operations, keep an eye on following financial laws, and help plan how the company can grow financially in a stable and smart way.

Nonprofit COO

In a nonprofit, a COO’s job is to make sure the organization runs effectively. They look after everything from marketing and fundraising to managing programs and the team. Their big goal is to ensure that all the operations help the organization stick to its mission and achieve its goals.

---

Top skills for chief operating officers

If you’re aiming to be a COO, here are the key skills you’ll need to rock the job:

Strategic thinking and decision-making

You’ll make big decisions that shape the company’s future. You need to be able to think ahead and figure out the best moves for the business, weighing the risks and benefits. Making smart choices that push the company forward is a big part of the job.

Advanced business acumen

You need to really get how business works. This means understanding everything from how money flows through the company to what’s happening in the market and what the competitors are up to. This knowledge helps you guide the company to grow and succeed.

Exceptional leadership skills

A COO needs to be a great leader because you’re the link between the CEO and everyone else in the company. You’ll need to inspire and lead your teams to turn big strategies into action. Building a positive and productive work culture is crucial.

Technology comprehension

In today’s world, a good COO must understand technology. It’s not just about knowing software; it’s about seeing how tech changes can make the company better and more competitive.

Outstanding credibility and ethics

You have to be someone people can trust. Your actions and decisions must be clear and honest because any slip-ups can really hurt the company’s reputation.

Adaptability

The business world changes all the time. You must be able to adapt to new trends, rules, and customer needs quickly. Staying flexible and ready to tweak your plans is essential to keep the company on track.

---

Chief operating officer career path

Here’s how a career can evolve after being a COO:

Stepping stone to CEO

For many, the next big step is becoming the CEO of their company. After mastering the ins and outs of running a company’s operations, they’re well-prepared to take on the top job when the current CEO steps down or moves on.

Move to other C-suite roles

Not every COO looks to become a CEO. Some might find their niche in other top executive roles like chief financial officer (CFO) or chief information officer (CIO), especially if they have experience and interest in those areas.

Leadership roles in other companies

A seasoned COO is a hot commodity. They can often jump into similar roles in different companies or even other industries, using their skills to improve another company’s operations.

Board membership or consulting

With a wealth of experience, former COOs are valuable as board members or consultants. They can advise other companies, helping them navigate complex problems and improve their operations.

Entrepreneurial ventures

Those with a knack for entrepreneurship might start their own business or join as a partner in an existing one. Their deep understanding of how to run and grow a company can make a huge difference in new ventures.

Sharing their knowledge

Finally, some execs choose to share what they’ve learned through teaching, writing books, or speaking at public events. This way, they contribute to the industry’s knowledge base and help shape the next generation of leaders.

---

Similar job titles

• Director of Operations
• General Manager
• Operations Manager
• Business Development Manager
• Logistics Manager
• Supply Chain Analyst
• Procurement Manager
• Facilities Manager
• Program Manager

---

Chief operating officer position trends and outlook

Here’s what you need to know about where the role is headed:

• Evolving responsibilities: They’re working closely with CEOs to guide the company’s overall strategy. Many are also taking on tasks related to sustainability and digital transformation, ensuring that the company meets its environmental goals and stays up-to-date with tech advancements.
• Focus on customer experience: Improving how customers interact with the company has become a big part of their job. They’re not only making operations run smoothly but also enhancing the customer journey.
• Cross-functional role: With technology becoming a bigger part of business, COOs often oversee IT infrastructure and cybersecurity. This makes their role more cross-functional, blending operations with tech to keep the company secure and efficient.

Employment projections

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs for top executives, including COOs, are expected to grow by 6% through 2031, which is about average for all jobs. Even with moderate growth, the demand for skilled COOs remains high because companies need strong leaders to navigate complex business environments and economic challenges.

---

Chief operating officer career tips

Understand the market trends

Stay on top of what’s happening in your industry. Knowing the latest market trends helps you predict and prepare for changes that could impact your company. This might include new technology, shifts in consumer behavior, or changes in regulations. Keep learning by attending industry conferences, participating in online forums, and subscribing to relevant journals and publications.

Foster clarity and transparency

You’re the link between different departments. Share goals, expectations, and challenges openly with your team. Inform them about the company’s strategic direction, updates from different departments, and any significant upcoming changes. This transparency builds trust and keeps everyone engaged and aligned with the company’s objectives.

Build a professional network

Connect with peers in your industry to gain insights, stay updated on business trends, and explore new opportunities. Strong professional relationships can lead to partnerships or collaborations that benefit your organization. Join professional groups and attend networking events to expand your connections.

• International Association of Chiefs of Police
• Inner Chief Podcast
• Chief Executive Officers Club
• EO Network
• The Executive Connection

Recommend continuous learning

Always keep learning to stay ahead. Senior leaders need to be aware of the latest industry developments, managerial techniques, and technological advancements. Enroll in executive education courses or attend webinars and workshops to keep your skills sharp and knowledge up-to-date.

• Online courses from accredited platforms like Coursera and Udemy
• Webinars and workshops focused on strategic leadership, operations management, and advanced data analysis
• Executive education courses at top-tier universities

Consider advanced certifications

Advanced certifications can boost your credentials, validate your skills, and enhance your knowledge, especially if you’re aiming for high-level positions in regulated industries or large organizations.

• Certified Manager (CM) certification
• Certified Business Operations Professional (CBOP)
• Project Management Professional (PMP)
• Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)

---

FAQs