Leave us your email address and we'll send you all the new jobs according to your preferences.

Chief Operating Officer

Posted 21 days 14 hours ago by Modern Synthesis

Permanent
Not Specified
Other
London, United Kingdom
Job Description

Modern Synthesis is crafting the next generation of biomaterials by connecting the dots between biology, material science and design. We're on a mission to create sustainable materials which reduce the fashion industry's dependence on petrochemicals - without sacrificing performance or creativity. Our first material, which is grown by bacteria, is fully biodegradable and astonishingly strong. You can read more about it on our website .

We believe that big magic happens when disparate disciplines, perspectives and ideas collide. As a team of biologists, chemists, designers, engineers, business experts, robots and microbes, we get to witness this magic on a daily basis. From our strong culture of debate (hot takes always welcome ️) to our bi-weekly deep dives, we intentionally embed collaboration and growth into everything we do.

We hire people, not roles, so we can be flexible on scope. We strongly encourage you to apply if you think you're qualified for a portion of this role, and can demonstrate a proven ability to take on new skills and challenges.

ABOUT THE ROLE

We're seeking a dynamic and visionary Chief Operating Officer (COO) to join our leadership team. You'll help propel us to new heights as we embark on the next growth stage of our business. Reporting directly to the CEO, you will have a pivotal role in setting and executing our operational strategy and fostering innovation in our manufacturing process. You will be at the forefront of leading a team dedicated to pushing the boundaries of material technologies.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Lead the development and execution of the company's operational strategy, ensuring alignment with our mission and vision

Build and manage a high-performing team across various functions, fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration

Oversee end-to-end operations, with an immediate focus on scaling our manufacturing, supply chain, and quality control

Proactively and collaboratively work with the CEO and CTO to define short-term and long-term growth objectives, translating them into actionable plans

Drive operational excellence through data-driven decision-making, performance metrics, and continuous improvement initiatives

Develop and manage strategic partnerships and collaborations to enhance our competitive position in the biomaterials industry

Champion a culture of excellence, safety, sustainability, and compliance in all operational activities

Report to Investors and Board by providing operational insights and strategies

Job requirements

REQUIRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

Proven track record of 5+ years in senior leadership role(s), with experience of growing and leading a team in a manufacturing setting

Expert understanding of manufacturing processes

Experience in scaling operations, with a passion for innovation and disruption

Strong strategic thinking and problem-solving skills, adept at turning challenges into opportunities

Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills to engage with employees and stakeholders at all levels

Demonstrated ability to navigate ambiguity and make decisions in a fast-paced, rapidly evolving environment

DESIRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

The following skills and experience are not required for the role, but would be beneficial for a successful applicant:

Experience in a pre-revenue Startup or rapid-growth organisation

Experience working in textiles, composites, or coatings industries

A passion for innovation within the fashion/textiles industry

BENEFITS:

Company pension scheme

Private Health Insurance, including vision and stipends

Enhanced Parental Leave Policy

Hybrid working arrangements & flexible working hours

Cycle-to-work Scheme

Dog-friendly office in South West London

Support from world class investors and advisors

OUR VALUES

Co-Culture - We Co-Culture Change

Co-Culture reflects our commitment to cross-pollination internally and externally, our ability to lean on one another, and our role as a catalyst in both business and culture.

Growth - We Put Growth on a Pedestal

Growth speaks to our inspiration and creative use of biology, our bias towards impact and scale, and our dedication to empowering industry to 'grow up' from a harmful past.

By Design - We Do It All By Design

By Design articulates the intentionality, empathy and creativity built into every aspect of our work. It also denotes the importance of accountability and our adherence to core design thinking principles.

OUR HIRING PROCESS

Round 0. Apply online

Round 1. 30 minute phone interview where we'll dive into your work history and motivations for applying to Modern Synthesis

Round 2. 1 hour skills interview where we'll explore the skills and knowledge you'll bring to this role

Round 3. 1 hour on-site interview where you'll present to our panel and we'll discuss how work at Modern Synthesis aligns with your values and future plans

Round 4. An on-site informalcultural-fit interview where you will meet with members of our team and discuss working at Modern Synthesis

MODERN SYNTHESIS ED&I STATEMENT

Innovation rarely happens in a vacuum. The greatest ideas stem from a variety of perspectives, and an environment that supports equal representation and opportunities for all.

We are committed to driving global change. We only have one planet we all call home, and we need to work together to protect it. We believe in collaboration and a culture of debate. Disagreements are a chance to refocus our direction. We call this co-culture.

We welcome people of all races, genders, religions, ages, backgrounds, and abilities to our workplace and are committed to ensuring all our employees are safe, heard, represented and provided with every opportunity to thrive.

Equally we will act with integrity, purpose and respect in everything we do. We too are human. We will likely make mistakes and need to continue evolving our approach to ED&I as the world around us changes.

Email this Job