COO overhead is justified—for a time

Hiring a COO is sometimes justifiable, and sometimes not.  

So when does the role become excessive overhead?  

• When change momentum slows: Freshi ideas and skills eventually lose their impact.
• When the job is done: Once the groundwork is set, hiring in-house becomes more cost-effective.
• When the company evolves:  If the new reality no longer fits the COO’s skill set, does the role still add enough value?

This is why a COO is inherently an interim role. One that, when done right, reduces overhead.