Chief Operating Officer (Wholesaler)

Executive

Job Description

We are a fast-growing, dynamic distributor of brand-name cosmetics, skincare, haircare, and personal care products. We operate at the intersection of wholesale distribution & ecommerce, with strong relationships across domestic and international markets. Our current footprint spans retail-ready inventory, closeout opportunities, and high-volume liquidation strategies. We are in a critical growth phase — following a facility expansion and operational overhaul — and we're looking for a strategic, execution-driven COO to help scale and lead our organization into its next chapter.

As COO, you will work directly with the CEO to lead and streamline daily operations, drive revenue growth, manage vendor and customer relationships, and execute key initiatives across multiple business verticals. You will play a hands-on role in shaping team culture, improving systems, and optimizing performance — while being laser-focused on high-impact sales, fulfillment, and operational discipline.

Key Responsibilities

  • Oversee all day-to-day business operations including warehouse, fulfillment, inventory management, logistics, and general administration.
  • Drive B2B and B2C e-commerce growth across platforms (Shopify, Walmart, our own website, etc.).
  • Build out internal reporting and KPI dashboards (revenue, margin, sales velocity, aging inventory, etc.).
  • Implement cost-saving and efficiency initiatives across supply chain and warehouse operations.
  • Develop and lead the internal sales team and hiring strategy (bookkeeper, executive assistant, sales reps).
  • Generate monthly CEO reports including revenue summaries, staff directory + payroll forecasts, liquidation inventory lists, top product analysis, and customer sales trends.
  • Build and strengthen vendor and distributor relationships while reactivating dormant accounts.
  • Identify opportunities for process improvements and lead initiatives to enhance operational efficiency, reduce waste, and streamline workflows.
  • Ensure operations comply with all regulatory requirements and internal policies, proactively addressing risks and implementing mitigation strategies.
  • Leverage technology and operational tools to improve workflow and inventory management, ensuring scalability as the business grows.

Qualifications

  • Proven experience in a senior operations role (COO, VP Ops, GM, or equivalent), ideally in e-commerce, wholesale, or consumer packaged goods (CPG).
  • Minimum of 10 years of operational leadership experience, preferably in wholesale distribution, e-commerce, or related industries such as cosmetics, retail, or consumer goods.
  • Strong grasp of inventory flow, logistics, warehouse systems, and process development.
  • Data-oriented decision-maker — comfortable using numbers to drive outcomes.
  • People leader who knows how to hire, train, and scale small teams efficiently.
  • Not afraid to get hands dirty in a fast-moving, entrepreneurial environment.
  • Deep understanding of revenue vs. margin, and how to grow profitably.
  • Strong strategic and analytical skills with a proven track record of improving business operations and implementing growth strategies.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with executives, employees, and external partners.
  • Familiarity with ERP systems, inventory management software, and other operational technologies. Advanced Excel and data analysis skills.
  • Bachelor’s degree in business administration, operations management, or related field. MBA preferred.

Must-Have Traits

  • Operates with urgency and discipline.
  • Thinks like an owner.
  • Handles ambiguity and transition with focus.
  • Prioritizes ROI and understands trade-offs between speed and sustainability.
  • Willing to work closely under the CEO’s leadership while driving initiatives independently.

Compensation

  • Base Salary: $150,000 per year.
  • Performance-Based Raises: Tiered increases tied to revenue milestones.
  • Severance & Security: Structured severance eligibility after 6 months of performance-based contribution.
  • Additional Perks:
    • 15 business days vacation.
    • Growth-based bonus potential.