Chief operating officer

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER

Permobil is a global leader in advanced mobility and assistive technology solutions, dedicated to empowering people living with disabilities through innovation and clinical insight. Founded in Sweden in 1967, the company combines a legacy of compassion and technical excellence with a strong global presence – operating in over 70 countries with 2,000 employees. As a wholly owned subsidiary of Patricia Industries, part of Investor AB, Permobil has the stability and long-term vision to continue driving evidence-based innovation that enhances independence, dignity, and quality of life for its users.

Position Overview  

The opportunity to join Permobil in the newly established role as Chief Operating Officer comes at a pivotal moment in the company’s evolution. Under the leadership of President & CEO Chuck Witkowski, Permobil is accelerating its transformation into an even more agile, data-driven, and globally integrated organization.

The Chief Operating Officers will play a critical role in shaping and executing this transformation, driving operational excellence across global supply chains, manufacturing, quality, and service delivery, while fostering a culture of continuous improvement and cross-functional collaboration.

This is more than a leadership role, it’s a chance to help redefine what’s possible in the world of assistive technology. The incoming COO will join a highly experienced and mission-driven executive team, working at the intersection of healthcare, technology, and human impact. For a leader who thrives in complex, purpose-led environments, this is a rare opportunity to make a lasting difference, both within the organization and in the lives of thousands of people around the world who rely on Permobil’s solutions every day.

Key Responsibilities:  

• Align manufacturing and supply chain strategies with Permobil’s vision, partnering with innovation teams to scale new designs into production and developing KPIs for operational excellence,
• Champion Extreme Manufacturing (XM) practices, fostering a culture of rapid prototyping, digital manufacturing, and continuous improvement,
• Direct global operations across manufacturing, procurement, logistics, and supply chain, optimizing processes for quality, scalability, and efficiency,
• Build and maintain a resilient supplier network, optimize inventory and logistics, and collaborate with R&D to integrate new technologies into the supply chain,
• Embed sustainability and ethical standards into all operations, ensuring compliance and minimizing environmental impact,
• Drive the adoption of Extreme Manufacturing (XM) principles and advanced technologies (e.g., 3D printing, AI, robotics) to accelerate innovation and enable modular, efficient production systems,
• Monitor financial performance, ensuring cost optimization and identifying opportunities for productivity gains and value creation,
• Lead, coach, and empower high-performing global teams, fostering collaboration, innovation, and a unified company culture,
• Proactively identify and mitigate operational and supply chain risks, building agile systems to adapt to change and ensure continuity,
• Provide regular updates to global management, representing operations and supply chain in strategic forums and ensuring alignment with company goals. 
  
  

Qualifications & Skills: 

• A bachelor’s degree in engineering, operations management, supply chain, or a related field is required (an MBA or equivalent advanced degree is preferred),
• Extensive experience in global operations, manufacturing, and supply chain management, ideally in the medical device or advanced manufacturing sectors,
• Proven track record of implementing advanced manufacturing methodologies (e.g., lean, agile, digital manufacturing),
• Experience leading large-scale operational transformations and digitalization initiatives,
• Strong commercial and financial acumen with experience in P&L management,
• Understanding of diverse cultures and international corporate operations,
• Comprehensive understanding of regulatory frameworks and technological trends in manufacturing and supply chain,
• Deep knowledge of Extreme Manufacturing principles and ability to drive their adoption across a global organization,
• Proven ability to manage large-scale budgets and drive cost optimization and productivity improvements,
• Experience in leading and motivating diverse teams, building a strong company culture, and nurturing talent,
• Exceptional communication skills with the ability to engage and influence key stakeholders globally. 
  
  

Who are you?

You are a visionary leader with a sharp strategic mind, always looking beyond the horizon to anticipate market trends and drive innovation. Your ability to translate big-picture thinking into actionable strategies sets you apart, ensuring operational agility and sustained growth. In times of change, you remain resilient and adaptable, confidently guiding teams through transformation and embracing new opportunities. Integrity is at the core of your leadership—you uphold the highest ethical standards, foster a culture of transparency, and hold yourself and others accountable. Your commitment to strong governance and responsible decision-making inspires trust and empowers those around you to achieve excellence. 

 

Why is this role a perfect next step for you?

• You’ll make a difference. Every day.  Everything we do leads to improving the lives of the people who use our products. Through our evidence-based innovations, we make a difference to people’s lives.
• You’ll make your mark as part of our future.  We collaborate with colleagues across borders to Innovate for Individuals. The impact you personally make could change the world.
• You’ll feel welcome from day one. We’re known for being great colleagues, who are collaborative, fun and at the cutting-edge. Everyone at Permobil cares as much as you do about making a positive difference. 
  
  

Application Process 

We will conduct selection continuously so send us your application today or before  November 30th at the latest. We welcome applicants from all locations.  

The recruitment process is managed in partnership with Korn Ferry.

For more information about the position and recruitment process, please contact Zivile Mitkute, Talent Acquisition Partner, [email protected] or Jennie Olsson, Senior Associate at Korn Ferry, [email protected]

Permobil is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. We welcome applications from all qualified individuals.