With nearly 115,000 members in 140 countries, IMechE has been at the heart of the mechanical engineering profession since 1847.

We are a professional membership organisation serving the engineering sector. Our mission is to empower engineers, advance the profession, and promote innovation and collaboration. We are at a pivotal moment in our history, facing a once-in-a-generation opportunity to redefine our operations, address key strategic challenges, and transform into a forward-facing, agile, and flexible organisation.

To lead this transformation, we are seeking an experienced and dynamic Chief Operating Officer (COO) who will oversee our operational functions and support the delivery of our strategic goals, including a critical decision on our headquarters. 

The Role

The newly created COO role reports directly to the CEO and is a key member of the executive team. The COO will drive operational excellence and unify key functions under a cohesive vision. This role supports the organisation's transformation into a global, inclusive, and digitally-enabled entity. As the executive sponsor for the future HQ, the COO will collaborate with the executive team to develop and implement the long-term strategic plan.

Responsibilities include overseeing finance, facilities, digital, marketing and communications, governance, fundraising, people & culture, and the delivery of our future HQ, ensuring seamless operations to support the organisation’s objectives.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead operational transformation and strategic planning.
• Streamline operational support functions for efficiency.
• Oversee financial planning, commercial opportunities, and fundraising.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory and governance standards.
• Identify and mitigate risks, leading the Internal Audit programme.
• Build strong relationships with stakeholders and develop networks in the professional engineering sector.

Required:

• Proven track record as a senior leader, ideally as a COO or in an equivalent role.
• Expertise in financial management, governance, and risk management.
• Exceptional strategic thinking and project management skills.
• Multi-functional leadership including technology, human resources, transformation
• High emotional quotient, excellent communication skills

For an informal and confidential discussion, please speak with our advisors at Berwick Partners:

Ardiana Hashani

Lead Researcher – Financial Leadership Practice

+44 020 7367 9790 / +44 392 113 183

Ardiana.Hashani@berwickpartners.co.uk