What Career Path Should I Take To Become A COO — Mark Jones COO
Introduction
The chief operating officer (COO) is a member of the executive team in organizations and the second in command after the chief executive officer. They are in charge of sales, production, and personnel matters of a company. Their role entails overseeing the daily operations and execution of the company’s long term plans.
There isn’t a direct career path towards becoming a chief operating officer as there are many avenues to the position. However, many are expected. They are discussed as follows:
1. Education
The U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics states that a four-year degree is a top requirement for any top-level executive. It is a requirement by most employers that a COO has a bachelor’s degree in business administration or a related field. This degree provides a strong foundation in management, economics, information systems, and accounts.
Furthering education by having an MBA is also an added advantage. It equips you with the skills necessary to run the operations of a company competently and equates to a higher salary too. Aspiring Chief Operating Officers whose degrees aren’t in business are strongly recommended to consider one.
2. Skills and Competencies
Anyone aspiring to become a chief operations officer must possess the right skills. Skills can be acquired by attending executive-level seminars and training. Working in various job positions before achieving this level enables the development of necessary skills. Discussed below are some of the desirable skills.
• Analytical and decision-making skills: You should have the ability to consider many options, and create effective procedures that improve business and solve problems that may arise in the workplace.
• Financial Management: A chief operating officer must understand all the aspects of an accountant since they are responsible for general financial budgeting and accounting.
• Delegation: You should be able to assign responsibilities effectively and ensure all tasks are performed on time and in the right manner.
• Communication: Having managerial-level communication abilities is important. You should have interpersonal skills to negotiate and build deals with stakeholders and also mediate conflicts that may arise.
3. Gain Experience
Employers require a considerable amount of prior experience ranging from 10 to 15 years for you to become a chief operating officer. At least 5 of these years should be spent in a senior management position. Mark Jones, for example, was considered for this position with Intermoor due to his track record and experience. This kind of experience enables you to have the knowledge to adequately guide a company. You should have a broad background in considerable areas of operations.
4. Look up Vacancies for Chief Operations Positions
After acquiring relevant experience in the management roles, consider researching the current job market to determine which company fits you. You should consider your skills, interests, characteristics of the potential company, your role, and the leadership team in charge. Your resume should match the employer’s requirements. Let your cover letter highlight your qualifications and demonstrate your zeal for working with the company. This will make it easy for you to eventually secure an interview.
Conclusion
To rise to this rank, it is important that while building your career, you expand your network. Most successful managers get to their levels not only because of their hard work but also because of the relationships they establish and maintain throughout their career progression.
