What are the responsibilities and job description for the Vice President of Operations / COO position at Purple Unicorn?
Company Overview:
Our client is a thriving, family-owned organization and a leading supplier of aftermarket parts and accessories to transit authorities, governments, municipalities, fleets, and school districts across the country. They are committed to delivering high-quality products, exceptional service, and operational excellence. As growth continues, the company is seeking a strategic and results-driven VP, Operations to lead and optimize all critical operational pillars to include Customer Service, Warehouse, Contracts, Procurement, and Supply Chain.
Position Summary:
Purple Unicorn, on behalf of our client, is hiring a key leader and member of the C-suite who is responsible for overseeing and enhancing the company’s operational performance, ensuring efficiency, profitability, and scalability. This role will focus on supply chain management, government contracts, procurement, inventory control, and distribution while driving continuous improvement and operational excellence. The ideal candidate should have experience in aftermarket auto parts and accessories and/or deep understanding of the industry’s logistics, procurement strategies, and customer service demands.
Key Responsibilities:
● Develop and execute operational strategies to enhance efficiency, productivity, and profitability across all departments.
● Manage the key leaders overseeing each critical pillar of the operation, maintaining a team culture of growth and inclusivity.
● Oversee supply chain management, warehousing, distribution, and procurement to ensure seamless order fulfillment and customer satisfaction.
● Implement process improvements, technology solutions, and best practices to optimize inventory management and reduce costs.
● Lead and mentor operational teams, fostering a culture of accountability, innovation, and continuous improvement.
● Manage vendor and supplier relationships to negotiate favorable terms and ensure product availability.
● Collaborate with sales, finance, and executive leadership to align operations with company growth objectives.
● Monitor key performance metrics and implement data-driven strategies to enhance operational efficiency.
● Ensure compliance with industry regulations, safety standards, and company policies.
Qualifications & Experience:
● 10 years of leadership experience in operations, supply chain, or procurement, with a strong background in aftermarket auto parts and accessories and/or manufacturing.
● Proven success in scaling operations, improving supply chain efficiency, and optimizing distribution networks.
● Strong knowledge of inventory management systems, procurement strategies, and logistics best practices.
● Experience in contract negotiation, vendor management, and cost control
initiatives.
● Ability to lead cross-functional teams and drive a high-performance culture.
● Excellent problem-solving, decision-making, and strategic planning skills.
● Strong analytical mindset with the ability to use data to drive operational improvements.
● Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, Operations, or a related field
If you are a proven operations leader with expertise in aftermarket auto parts and accessories, and you’re ready to drive operational excellence in a growing organization, we invite you to apply.
Compensation starts at $150,000 / year based on experience.
Benefits:
Medical:
Health (company pays 75% for employee)
Dental (employee paid @ discounted monthly fee)
Vision (employee paid @ discounted monthly fee)
401K: Company match of 50% up to 6% of annual salary
Paid Time Off:
Flexible paid time off (PTO) policy with two weeks of paid vacation offered year one
Eight paid holidays/year
Salary : $150,000
