Chief Operating Officer

Call for Applications for Chief Operating Officer (COO) – ANNAM.AI

Location: ANNAM.AI, Center of Excellence in AI for Agriculture, IIT Ropar
Type: Full -Time | Contractual | Renewable based on performance
Compensation: ₹25 -50 Lakhs per annum (Negotiable based on qualifications and experience)
Performance Incentives: Additional incentives based on performance and outcomes, subject to Governing Board approval
Tenure: Initial appointment for 2 years, extendable up to 5 years
Age Limit: Preferably under 45 years; Minimum experience of 10+ years 

Role Summary

ANNAM.AI Foundation is looking for an experienced professional in the position of Chief Operating Officer (COO) to oversee the ongoing operations & procedures, and to enhance the efficiency of business. The COO role will be a key member of the senior management team, who will maintain control of diverse business operations, as an experienced and efficient leader. If you have excellent people skills, business acumen and exemplary work ethics in the domain of technology R&D, we encourage you to apply.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership|Operational Oversight|Stakeholder Engagement & Ecosystem Building|Talent & Team Leadership|Innovation & Startup Engagement

• Design, implement, and optimize operational strategies, business plans, and processes aligned with the vision of Annam Foundation.
  
  
• Set measurable performance goals and ensure scalable growth across the Foundation’s verticals.
  
  
• Develop and enforce policies that uphold organizational values and promote a culture of innovation and inclusivity.
  
  
• Oversee day -to -day operations and coordinate with departmental heads across IT, Finance, Procurement, Marketing, and HR to ensure seamless execution of strategic objectives.
  
  
• Lead and mentor cross -functional teams to inspire high performance, collaboration, and commitment to the Foundation’s mission.
  
  
• Monitor organizational performance by analyzing data, KPIs, and operational metrics to inform evidence -based decision -making.
  
  
• Prepare and present progress reports and key updates to the Project Director and Governing Body.
  
  
• Collaborate with leadership in identifying, evaluating, and supporting AI -driven startups and fundraising opportunities relevant to agriculture and allied sectors.
  
  
• Actively participate in institutional growth through expansion initiatives, including strategic investments, research collaborations, and corporate alliances.
  
  
• Collaborate with key national and international stakeholders such as NITI Aayog, ICAR, Ministry of Education (MoE), agri -tech startups, FAO, and the World Bank to drive co -creation and co -implementation of impactful AI solutions.
  
  
• Cultivate and manage strong relationships with stakeholders including startups, industry partners, research institutions, vendors, and the broader innovation ecosystem.
  
  

Candidate Profile

Educational Qualifications and Skills

• Educational Background: A postgraduate degree in Management (MBA or equivalent) with an undergraduate or foundation degree in Engineering/Technology. A strong orientation toward emerging technologies and responsible AI is essential. Higher qualifications may be preferred.
  
  
• Experience: Proven track record in COO/CEO or equivalent leadership roles with experience in building and scaling innovation -driven organizations.
  
  
• Demonstrated expertise in business operations across key functions—finance, HR, procurement, and strategy.
  
  
• Strong strategic planning, business development, and execution capabilities.
  
  
• Ability to work with data -driven insights for performance monitoring and decision -making.
  
  
• Deep understanding of IT systems, business infrastructure, and digital transformation tools.
  
  
• Exceptional organizational leadership, communication, securing grants and stakeholder engagement skills.
  
  
• High emotional intelligence, with an aptitude for team -building, negotiation, and conflict resolution.
  
  

Performance -Based Incentives: The COO will be eligible for performance -based incentives, subject to periodic reviews and Board approval. Incentives will be outcome -driven and aligned with the long -term vision of ANNAM.AI.

Separation Clause: One month’s notice in year one, two months in subsequent years or salary in lieu.

Application Process

• Submit your application through the Zoho Recruit portal
  
  
• Subject Line: Application for COO – ANNAM.AI
  
  
• Deadline: Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.