How to Become a Chief Operating Officer

Step 1: Understand the job description and responsibilities of a Chief Operating Officer

What does a Chief Operating Officer do?

A Chief Operating Officer leads the planning and development of an organization's operational objectives and initiatives. Develops strategies and oversees the execution of plans to attain short- and long-term financial and mission-critical operational goals. Being a Chief Operating Officer directs the development of the organization's functional capacity that will produce sustainable growth and minimize risk. Develops operating budgets. Additionally, Chief Operating Officer establishes effective operational policies and procedures. Typically requires a master's degree. Typically reports to Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Responsible for the development of functional or business unit strategy for the entire organization. Defines corporate vision and strategy establishes company direction and focus. Executes multiple high impact initiatives to achieve overall corporate goals.

People's Opinions on Chief Operating Officer responsibilities

The officer might notice, for example, that newer workers are considerably less productive than seasoned laborers.

11/18/2019: Virginia Beach, VA

After considering costs, the officer can decide to implement a more comprehensive training program to better prepare new employees for their jobs.

12/13/2019: Benton Harbor, MI

Instead, they primarily receive information from department supervisors and vice officers regarding the status of day-to-day activities.

12/24/2019: Biloxi, MS

An officer carefully considers raw production data and concerns brought forth by other managers to determine the best ways to improve circumstances.

11/23/2019: Green Bay, WI

The COO might consult with the technology officer to discuss whether new systems and equipment could enhance productivity.

12/28/2019: Altoona, PA
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Step 2: Learn best tips to become a Chief Operating Officer

Best tips for those who want to become a Chief Operating Officer

Here are some tips to become a Chief Operating Officer.

People's Opinions on best tips

Your co-workers will get excited and motivated to do a job well when they not only understand why it is critical but feel that you have trusted them with this responsibility because you have confidence in them.

11/30/2019: Alexandria, LA

Sostrin also pointed out that you should be as engaged as you can, but deliver support and let your employees feel accountable.

01/09/2020: Santa Cruz, CA

Practice saying “yes,” “no,” and “yes, if.” You can’t accept every project that comes your way from the CEO or Board, so you have to prioritize and determine which tasks most need your attention, and which can be delegated.

11/09/2019: Green Bay, WI

Find and invest in your best talent.

11/25/2019: Anaheim, CA

Lead corporate planning efforts.

01/02/2020: Carson City, NV
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Step 3: View best colleges and universities for Chief Operating Officer

Best colleges and universities for Chief Operating Officer

  • Butler University
  • Carroll College
  • Cooper Union
  • High Point University
  • Princeton University
  • Providence College

Step 4: Think about whether is it worth to be a Chief Operating Officer

Is being a Chief Operating Officer Worth it?

People's Opinions on lifestyles

New York Life chief operating officer Gerald Rocchi attended, along with more than 100 El Paso businesspeople and professionals.

10/07/2019: Gastonia, NC

Canfield will join the organization in September as its chief operating officer for Moore Regional Hospital.  In this position, Canfield will report directly to FirstHealth Chief Executive Officer David Kilarski.

11/27/2019: Nassau, NY

Construction CEO/PresidentChief Operating Officers (COO)EHS/Safety DirectorsIndustrial HygienistsSafety ManagersCompliance OfficersRisk ManagersProject ManagersTraining Directors/ManagersHR Directors/ManagersEHS Consultants.

10/31/2019: Lansing, MI

If you're bringing a Chief Operating Officer (COO) in to work for you, be sure to align, acquire, accommodate, assimilate, and accelerate them well.

12/18/2019: Santa Rosa, CA

As a member of the executive team and reporting directly to the Founding Executive Director ("ED"), the Chief Operating Officer (“COO”) will play a key role in….

12/04/2019: San Antonio, TX
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Step 5: Prepare relevant skills for being a Chief Operating Officer

What skills do you need to be a Chief Operating Officer?

Management is no easy task, and as such, the skill requirements for these types of roles vary greatly.  Chief skills for this role are: Compliance Management, Cost Management, Cross-Functional Integration, Implementation Management, Operations Management, Process Optimization, Strategy Management, Supply Chain Management, Financial Performance Evaluation, Corporate Budgeting, Performance Metrics, Organizational Goal Setting, Operational Policy Development.  You would need to be proficient in the following: Presentation Software.  Expertise in these areas will help you land this, or a similar role.

People's Opinions on Chief Operating Officer skills

Before you can define the best character traits and skills that make up a good Chief Operating Officer, it’s first necessary to define the job description.

11/21/2019: Olympia, WA

Established and maintained operating standards, regulatory compliance and total quality management while maintaining a current level of knowledge industry-related trends and compliance standards to ensure a cohesive structure within the school and organization.

12/22/2019: New Suffolk, NY

Proven experience as Chief Operating Office or a similar relevant role.

11/09/2019: Sumter, SC

Loan OfficerBelow you will find a resume example for a Loan Officer with job experience in….

11/28/2019: Bloomington, IN

A Chief Operating Officer needs experience in strategic planning and execution.

10/02/2019: Stamford, CT
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Step 6: View average salary for Chief Operating Officer

How much does a Chief Operating Officer make?

The average salary range for a Chief Operating Officer is from $382,563 to $637,622. The salary will change depending on your location, job level, experience, education, and skills.

Salary range for a Chief Operating Officer
$382,563 to $637,622

Step 7: Find relevant Chief Operating Officer jobs, and apply.

Looking for Chief Operating Officer jobs?

Here are some Chief Operating Officer jobs in the United States.

Search Chief Operating Officer Jobs in the United States

Step 8: Explore Career Path of Chief Operating Officer