Chief Operating Officer (COO)

About MEC

At MEC, we believe the transformative power of the outdoors makes us better humans and drives us to do good for the planet. We are here to inspire and support everyone in getting active outside, matching people with gear and advice that instills confidence. We offer more than products; we offer passion for the outdoors. We play with purpose!

Our business model is dependent on impassioned and well-trained outdoor enthusiasts and as such we look for individuals who live our purpose and fit with MEC ethos and lifestyle. If you are that person, we’d love to connect with you. Join us!

The Opportunity

We are seeking an experienced Chief Operating Officer (COO) for a strategic role that combines high-level operational oversight with hands-on leadership across Finance, Supply Chain Management, and Facilities. Reporting directly to the CEO, the COO will drive operational excellence, optimize processes, and ensure alignment with the company’s long-term vision. A key aspect of this role will be shaping financial strategy, managing budgets, and ensuring the organization’s fiscal integrity while maintaining the agility needed to adapt to a dynamic retail environment. The ideal candidate will possess deep retail acumen, with proven experience in scaling operations and managing multi-faceted retail functions. They should have a demonstrated track record in leading cross-functional teams to deliver results in a high-growth, customer-focused environment, including expertise in optimizing supply chains, managing facilities, and implementing efficient financial practices.

In addition, the COO will be responsible for enhancing existing systems and processes by integrating key metrics to measure performance, identify areas for improvement, and ensure data-driven decision-making. The role will also involve conducting a comprehensive review of current operations to identify gaps or inefficiencies in both the supply chain and finance functions. By addressing these gaps, the COO will ensure smoother workflows, cost reduction, and improved service delivery, driving both short-term operational improvements and long-term strategic growth. The ability to balance strategic initiatives with day-to-day operational demands, ensuring both immediate goals and long-term growth objectives are met, is critical to success in this role. Please note this is a full-time onsite office role.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership:

• Collaborate with the CEO and executive team to define and execute the company’s strategic vision and operational goals.
• Develop and implement strategies to enhance operational efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and customer satisfaction.
• Analyze market trends and industry developments to identify growth opportunities and potential risks.
• Oversee the supply chain, facilities, and finance team
  
  

Operational

• Oversee all supply chain operations, including procurement, inventory management, and logistics.
• Ensure the distribution center operates efficiently to meet retail demands and enhance service levels.
• Implement best practices and continuous improvement initiatives to optimize supply chain performance.
• Foster a customer-centric culture by developing policies that enhance engagement and satisfaction.
• Utilize data analytics to monitor customer feedback and identify areas for improvement.
• Oversee the management of all company facilities, ensuring safety, efficiency, and environmental responsibility.
• In partnership with Retail, plan and execute new store openings, ensuring operational readiness and alignment with company standards.
  
  

Financial Stewardship

• Partner with the VP, Finance, you'll oversee the finance team and leverage the team to create operational reporting across the organization.
• Utilizing the finance team, manage the financial health of the organization, including financial planning, reporting, and cash flow management overseeing operational budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis.
• Collaborate with other executives to drive business strategy and communicate financial performance to key stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with all regulations and promote transparency and accountability.
  
  

People Leadership

• Build and lead a high-performing team by recruiting, training, and mentoring staff across operational functions.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and accountability, encouraging team members to drive results.
• Establish clear performance metrics and regularly review progress against organizational goals.
  
  

Qualifications

• Degree in finance, accounting, business administration, or a related field. Relevant Financial certifications are preferred.
• Minimum of 10-15 years of C-suite or executive leadership level experience in operations, supply chain, or finance, preferably within the retail sector.
• Proven track record of driving operational improvements and achieving strategic objectives in a complex, fast-paced environment.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a data-driven approach to decision-making.
• Exceptional leadership and interpersonal skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate teams.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to engage stakeholders at all levels.
• Passion for outdoor activities and a strong understanding of the outdoor retail market.
• Demonstrates and upholds the Leadership Way guiding principles, setting an example through actions, decision-making, and team engagement.
  
  

Leadership Principles

Our MEC Leadership Way principles are the backbone of our commitment to fostering a vibrant, outdoor-focused culture. Grounded in integrity, innovation, and inclusivity, these guiding capabilities empower leaders at every level to inspire teamwork and drive meaningful change. By cultivating a culture of trust and accountability, we create an environment where everyone can thrive, adapt to challenges, and contribute to our shared mission of connecting people with the great outdoors. Embrace these principles to help shape a dynamic and supportive workplace that values growth, empathy, and a shared passion for exploration.

• We know where we’re going. Clearly define our mission, connect work to strategy, and set measurable goals collaboratively.
• We guide with empathy. Foster understanding and respect, celebrate diversity, and create an inclusive environment.
• We grow our people. Invest in individual growth, remain accessible to teams, and pursue continuous improvement.
• We trailblaze. Embrace innovation as a process, encourage experimentation, and learn from mistakes.
• We pick the right path. Make decisions based on our values, consider diverse perspectives, and communicate reasoning transparently.
• We change course when needed. Embrace change as an opportunity, adapt strategies swiftly, and lead teams with clear communication and positivity.
  
  

T he Compensation & Perks!

This is a permanent role with the anticipated salary range of $290,000 to $365,000 base + short and long-term incentives. The exact salary will be dependent on the successful candidate’s relevant skills, experience, qualifications and internal equity. If your salary expectations are outside our advertised range, we still encourage you to apply!

• Generous annual vacation allotment & Paid Care time (Wellness/sick)
• Maternity and Parental leave top-up
• Staff Discount and amazing deals straight from vendors
• Top-notch benefit plan & Retirement plan with matched contributions
• Paid days to pursue outdoor activities and/or volunteer in your community
• Access to a learning platform and educational assistance support