Job Description

Role Overview

Jacob & Co. is seeking a dynamic, strategic, and visionary

Chief Operating Officer (COO)

to lead and optimize all facets of operations and processes for our Geneva-based high-end watch manufacturing division. This pivotal role demands a leader who combines deep expertise in luxury watchmaking with a proven ability to scale operations, drive innovation, and foster cross-functional excellence.

As COO, you will work closely with the CEO and executive team to design and execute high-level operational strategies aligned with the company's global vision. You will oversee manufacturing, supply chain, quality assurance, and IT systems while also ensuring financial performance, team development, and regulatory compliance. A critical part of the role includes assessing the current organizational structure, understanding the responsibilities of each department, and determining whether new talent or restructuring is required to support growth.

This is a hands-on leadership position for someone who thrives in fast-paced, detail-intensive environments and is passionate about delivering excellence in craftsmanship, efficiency, and culture.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic & Operational Leadership

Create, develop, and execute high-level operational processes and strategies aligned with the company's global vision, emphasizing scalable growth, profitability, product excellence, and innovation. Maintain related operational policies and procedures. Analyze performance metrics, prepare operational reports and implement improvements. Oversee daily manufacturing operations, ensuring optimal productivity, quality control, and compliance with industry standards. Partner with the CEO in shaping the organizational structure to support short- and long-term business objectives.
Manufacturing & Production Excellence

Lead and continuously improve watch manufacturing operations, ensuring peak performance in precision, craftsmanship, lead times, and scalability. Oversee production planning, capacity utilization, and workshop performance metrics across all product lines.
Talent Assessment & Human Resources Planning

Gain a deep understanding of all roles and responsibilities across departments to assess organizational efficiency, identify skill gaps, and evaluate team capacity against current and future business needs. Proactively determine if new hires, role adjustments, or restructuring are required to support operational scalability, drive performance, and align with strategic objectives.
Team & Culture Development

Inspire and empower a multidisciplinary team across Production, R&D, Quality, Logistics, After-Sales, Finance, and Administration. Foster a high-performance culture focused on innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement while embodying Jacob & Co.'s values and artistic spirit.
Financial Oversight & Cost Management

Own operational budgeting, financial forecasting, cost optimization, and CAPEX planning. Monitor KPIs and ensure performance targets are achieved across departments.
Supply Chain & Vendor Management

Build and maintain a high-performing global supply chain that ensures material excellence, traceability, and resilience. Negotiate strategic partnerships with suppliers and external manufacturers, maintaining luxury standards and timelines.
Innovation & Product Launch Coordination

Support the integration of emerging technologies and advanced materials into the production cycle without compromising artisanal craftsmanship.
Quality Assurance & Regulatory Compliance

Uphold and enhance rigorous quality standards in all aspects of manufacturing and distribution. Ensure full compliance with industry regulations, international certifications, and environmental & safety guidelines.
IT Systems & Infrastructure

Oversee ERP systems, digital tools, and operational workflows to maximize transparency, traceability, and process efficiency. Lead digital transformation efforts in operations to support data-driven decision-making.
Stakeholder & Partner Engagement

Serve as a key liaison for internal and external stakeholders including business partners, suppliers, clients, auditors, and regulatory authorities. Represent Jacob & Co. in operational matters at international trade fairs, exhibitions, and partner events.

Required Qualifications

10+ years of progressive leadership in luxury watchmaking operations; experience in haute horlogerie preferred. Proven success in scaling high-end production while maintaining quality, exclusivity, and innovation. Expert knowledge of horological production processes: micro-mechanics, movement assembly, case manufacturing, gem-setting, and after-sales service. Strong experience with ERP systems (SAP, Oracle, or equivalent) and digital production tools. Financially literate with strong command of budgeting, cost structures, and P&L impact. Advanced problem-solving and risk management skills with a strong sense of urgency and ownership. Fluent in English and French; additional languages are an advantage. Master's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, or related field; MBA or executive-level training is highly desirable. Deep appreciation for haute horlogerie, creative design, and fine craftsmanship.

Key Competencies

Visionary leadership and strategic execution High emotional intelligence and people development skills Meticulous attention to detail in luxury product environments Resilience under pressure and decisiveness in complex scenarios Innovation-driven and open to challenging the status quo Cross-cultural and global mindset
Job Type: Permanent

Pay: From CHF150'000.00 per year

Work Location: In person