Our client is a prominent, multi-sector group operating diverse portfolio companies and business units across Iraq and Qatar, Based primarily in Baghdad, Iraq (with periodic travel to Qatar). Focused on continuous efficiency, strategic expansion, the group is seeking a highly accomplished Chief Operations Officer (COO) to define, drive, and execute group-wide operational strategy, optimize multi-subsidiary processes, and lead cross-functional teams toward sustainable corporate growth. (Note: Primary location is Baghdad, Iraq ~75% of the time, with periodic travel to Qatar ~25%; residency provided). Key Responsibilities
- Operational Strategy & Governance: Develop and execute high-level operational strategies aligned with group objectives; establish SOPs, governance frameworks, and track group-wide operational KPIs.
- Operational Excellence & Execution: Oversee daily operations across all business divisions; lead process optimization, cost rationalization, and performance enhancement to maximize overall efficiency across primary sites in Iraq and operations in Qatar.
- M&A Operational Integration & Value Creation: Partner with CFO and CIO teams on post-acquisition integrations; execute operational restructurings and turnaround strategies for underperforming portfolio assets.
- Risk Management & Compliance: Identify and mitigate operational and supply-chain risks across both markets; maintain strict compliance, internal controls, HSE standards, and robust crisis management/business continuity plans.
- Leadership & Performance Management: Mentor high-performing operations teams, foster a culture of continuous improvement, and guide subsidiary leadership to elevate operational standards.
Key Qualifications
- Experience: Minimum 15 years of progressive operations and senior leadership experience across multi-sector holdings, (Middle East candidates preferred; Iraq market experience is a major plus).
- Education & Certifications: Bachelor's degree required (MBA preferred); PMP, Lean Six Sigma, or relevant executive operational certifications are highly desirable.
- Specific Skills: Expertise in operational governance, M&A integration, process optimization, risk management, and multi-country stakeholder management.
- Requirements: Arab nationality required.
- Location/Mobility: Based primarily in Baghdad, Iraq (~75% of the time) with periodic travel to Qatar (~25%); residency provided.
Market Salary Range
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Monthly Package: QAR 50,000 – QAR 60,000 per month (Executive Compensation Package with accommodation/residency benefits)