COO is the abbreviation for Chief Operating Officer, it corresponds to the deputy director of a company, i.e., the person just below the CEO (Chief Executive Officer). The big difference between CEO and COO is that they work at different levels. The CEO works at a strategic level, whereas a COO works at an operational level. The CEO sets the agenda for the strategy, for which the COO is responsible for executing it.
Not all companies have such a position, but it is often seen in larger companies, here you can also come across that there is more than one with such a title.
COOs responsibilities
As COO, you are responsible for the operational and administrative area. It consists of executing the company’s business plan. A COO is responsible for leading the day-to-day operations, this is done in collaboration with the management for IT, sales, finance, marketing, etc. The COO is also responsible for analyzing the company’s performance. Based on the company’s performance data and in line with the CEO’s strategy, the COO is responsible for executing and ensuring that the company performs as intended.
COOs competencies
- Longer education.
- In-depth knowledge in the company’s many areas – HR, finance, sales, marketing, etc.
- Extensive knowledge and experience in business development, strategic planning, data analysis, IT and infrastructure.
- Good communication skills, strategic thinking and a change-oriented approach.
