Chief Operating Officer

About Us:
BW Papersystems, part of the Barry-Wehmiller Group, builds capital equipment that transforms paper into products for consumers - every day, around the world. We offer innovative technologies, service and parts, and years of global experience in corrugating, finishing; slitting and packaging; stationery; bookbinding and security documents. Customers rely on our machines to produce and convert items such as corrugated boxes, folding cartons, passports, notebooks, copy paper, board, and coated and other specialty papers. For more information, visit bwpapersystems.com.
Barry-Wehmiller is a diversified global supplier of engineering consulting and manufacturing technology for the packaging, corrugating, sheeting and paper-converting industries. By blending people-centric leadership with disciplined operational strategies and purpose-driven growth, Barry-Wehmiller has become a $3 billion organization with nearly 12,000 team members united by a common belief: to use the power of business to build a better world.
Job Description:
The Chief Operating Officer (COO) is a pivotal leader responsible for shaping, executing, and transforming BW Papersystems' global operations footprint. This leader oversees manufacturing, supply chain, logistics, planning, procurement, and continuous improvement, ensuring the organization delivers world‑class performance, resilience, and customer satisfaction.
This role is central to advancing our long‑term strategy. The COO is a catalyst for operational excellence, embedding structured improvement methodologies (Lean, Kaizen, Business Systems) and driving measurable, sustainable gains across safety, quality, delivery, cost, and inventory. As a key member of the executive leadership team, this leader influences enterprise priorities, investment decisions, and cultural evolution.
Key ResponsibilitiesStrategic Leadership & Enterprise Alignment
Develop and execute a unified operations and supply chain strategy that accelerates growth, strengthens service excellence, and optimizes cost and risk.
Align operational and supply chain objectives with enterprise strategy, financial targets, and long‑range planning.
Serve as a trusted advisor and strategic partner on the executive leadership team, shaping platform strategy, capital allocation, and policy deployment.
Operational Excellence & Transformation
Champion a culture of continuous improvement and institutionalize The BW Way as a foundational operating system.
Drive breakthrough improvements across SQDCI metrics through disciplined problem‑solving, value stream optimization, and cross‑functional collaboration.
Lead enterprise transformation initiatives that modernize operations, elevate performance, and enhance organizational agility.
Foster a data‑driven culture that empowers teams to make informed decisions and solve complex operational challenges.
Supply Chain Strategy & Execution
Oversee end‑to‑end global supply chain operations, including demand planning, sourcing, procurement, materials management, logistics, distribution, and supplier performance.
Strengthen supply chain resilience through optimized network design, strategic supplier partnerships, and robust inventory and fulfillment strategies.
Ensure supply chain capabilities support customer commitments, growth objectives, and operational continuity.
Talent Development & Organizational Capability
Build, inspire, and scale a high‑performing global operations and supply chain leadership team.
Mentor and develop leaders in continuous improvement, structured problem‑solving, and enterprise business systems.
Advance succession planning, workforce development, and cross‑functional capability building.
Partner closely with engineering, commercial, finance, and people functions to ensure seamless integration of operational plans and customer outcomes.
Qualifications & Experience
Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Operations Management, Engineering, Business, or related field; MBA strongly preferred.
15+ years of progressive executive leadership in operations and supply chain within industrial, manufacturing, or complex multi‑site environments.
Demonstrated success leading enterprise‑level transformation, P&L‑linked performance improvement, and structured continuous improvement programs.
Experience navigating global supply networks, advanced business systems, and high‑mix/low‑volume or engineered‑to‑order environments.
Visionary leadership with exceptional communication, collaboration, and stakeholder management capabilities.
Technical & Leadership Competencies
Expertise in Lean, Kaizen, structured problem‑solving, and enterprise operating systems.
Strong analytical acumen and fluency in performance metrics and operational dashboards.
Proven ability to lead complex change, shape culture, and inspire innovation across diverse teams.
Executive presence with the ability to influence at all levels and drive alignment across functions.
Location & Travel Requirements
Strong preference for candidates local to — or willing to relocate to — Phillips, WI or Baltimore, MD.
Candidates who live within commuting distance of our Phillips, WI or Baltimore, MD facilities can expect less travel, about 30–40%. Time not traveling is spent on-site at your local facility.
For remote candidates, this role requires travel to, or on-site presence at, BW Papersystems locations about 70% of the time.
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At Barry-Wehmiller we recognize that people come with a wealth of experience and talent beyond just the technical requirements of a job. If your experience is close to what you see listed here, please still consider applying. We know that our differences often can bring about innovation, excellence and meaningful work—therefore, people from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply to our positions. Please let us know if you require reasonable accommodations during the interview process. ​
Barry-Wehmiller is an equal opportunity employer. M/F/D/V This organization uses E-Verify.
Applicants may be subject to pre-employment screening which may include drug screening, reference checks, employment verifications, background screening and/or skills assessments.
Company:
BW Papersystems