Chief Operating Officer (COO)Location:IrelandCompany Type:Research & Technology SME (Global)The OpportunityThis is a rare and exciting opportunity to step into a pivotal leadership role within a highly innovative water technology research and advisory business operating on a global stage. The organisation is an internationally active research-led technology and advisory business operating within the broader water and environmental solutions sector. It delivers independent insight, analytics, and strategic support to a diverse client base including infrastructure operators, global corporates, financial institutions, and innovation-driven enterprises.As Chief Operating Officer, you will be the right-hand person to the Founder/Owner, playing a central role in shaping strategy, scaling operations, and driving the next phase of growth. This is a broad, hands-on role ideal for someone who thrives in an SME environment, enjoys wearing multiple hats, and wants to work with the business owner in an evolving business.This role will suit someone who wants more than a traditional COO title—someone who wants to build, influence, and grow alongside a passionate founder in a truly fascinating sector.Your ImpactYou will ensure that strategy translates into execution across all functions. With a team of highly skilled professionals, you will create structure, momentum, and clarity—while preserving the entrepreneurial spirit that makes the company so special. You will have a very strong commercial focus that will support business growth and profitability across the different divisions helping them achieve targets, margins and budget.Key ResponsibilitiesStrategic Leadership & GrowthPartner closely with the Founder to define and execute the company's short- and long-term strategyHelp identify new growth opportunities across research, advisory, data, and technology offeringsSupport investor engagement, client strategy, and high-level commercial decision-makingTranslate vision into actionable plans, KPIs, and measurable outcomesOperational ExcellenceOversee day-to-day operations across all departmentsImplement scalable processes and systems to support international growthEnsure alignment, accountability, and performance across the businessFinancial Management & Commercial OversightSupport the FC on budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning activitiesFull responsibility for P&L management, working closely with the Financial ControllerLead departmental budgeting and cost control while enabling growthProvide commercial analysis, sales reporting, and performance insights to support decision-making.Sales, Forecasting & AnalysisPartner with sales and leadership teams on pipeline management and revenue forecastingAnalyse commercial performance, client trends, and market opportunitiesSupport pricing strategy, proposal development, and client profitability analysisPeople LeadershipLead, mentor, and develop a high-performing multidisciplinary teamFoster a collaborative, curious, and high-impact cultureSupport hiring, onboarding, and team structure as the business growsCross-FunctionalInvolvementBe involved in all aspects of the business operationAct as a trusted sounding board to the Founder, contributing insight, challenge, and support.About YouYou are a commercially astute, intellectually curious operator who enjoys being close to both strategy and execution. You are comfortable navigating ambiguity and excited by the opportunity to help shape a growing, globally relevant business.You will bring:Senior operational leadership experience, ideally within an SME, research, technology, advisory, or professional services environmentStrong financial acumen, with hands-on experience in P&L ownership, budgeting, and forecastingExperience managing and developing small to mid-sized teamsA strategic mindset paired with a practical, roll-up-your-sleeves approachExcellent communication skills and the confidence to engage with senior stakeholders, investors, and global clientsQualification in Finance, Business or related field.Ideally with Project Management experience.Industry experience is desirable but not essential.APPLY NOW#CplCorkFin