More Than Manufacturing: What Being a Battery COO Really Means - CleanTechnica

The article "More Than Manufacturing: What Being a Battery COO Really Means" from CleanTechnica provides an in-depth look at the multifaceted role of a Chief Operating Officer (COO) at a battery manufacturing company, specifically Proterra. While manufacturing excellence is foundational—emphasizing precision engineering, automation, and rigorous quality control—the COO’s responsibilities extend far beyond overseeing production lines. Central to the role is aligning the organization around Proterra’s mission to support zero-emission initiatives by delivering innovative battery solutions. This involves steering leadership in developing long-term strategies and execution plans to transform the company into a respected automotive-grade manufacturer. A significant focus of the COO’s role is building and nurturing a strong operating culture tailored to Proterra’s mission. Unlike established manufacturers with decades-old systems, Proterra is developing its Production System from the ground up, emphasizing people development, accountability, problem-solving, and continuous improvement methodologies such as 5S and Kaizen. The COO prioritizes cultivating a culture that endures