Chief Operating Officer (COO)
A nonprofit organization in South Dallas is seeking a strategic, execution‑oriented Chief Operating Officer (COO) to lead organizational operations during a pivotal period of transformation and growth. As the nonprofit prepares for the opening of a historic Theater in 2026 and expands its place‑based impact across South Dallas, the COO will serve as a key member of the executive leadership team, translating vision into disciplined systems, processes, and performance.
Position Overview
The COO is responsible for overseeing day‑to‑day operations across the nonprofit and its subsidiaries, ensuring operational excellence, cross‑functional alignment, and organizational readiness at scale. This role partners closely with the President & CEO, CFO, and senior leadership to build infrastructure, strengthen internal systems, and support a high‑performing, mission‑aligned team.
Key Responsibilities
- Operational Leadership: Oversee organizational operations, ensuring efficient execution across programs, departments, and subsidiaries.
- Cross‑Functional Integration: Align shared services (operations, HR, systems, facilities, and internal workflows) across the nonprofit and the Theater to ensure a unified, one‑team culture.
- Systems & Process Development: Lead the design and implementation of SOPs, workflows, and operational dashboards that support scalability, accountability, and clarity.
- Organizational Readiness & Growth: Prepare the organization for major milestones, including the Theater opening, staff growth, and expanded programming.
- People & Performance Management: Support department leaders in goal‑setting, performance management, and capacity planning to ensure teams are set up for success.
- Change Management: Lead organizational change initiatives associated with rapid growth, new structures, and evolving operational demands.
- Risk Management & Compliance: Ensure operational compliance, risk mitigation, and adherence to policies, contracts, and regulatory requirements.
- Executive Partnership: Serve as a strategic thought partner to the CEO, helping translate vision and strategy into operational plans and measurable outcomes.
Qualifications & Experience
- Senior operational leadership experience in nonprofit, arts, cultural, or mission‑driven organizations.
- Proven experience scaling organizations and building systems during periods of growth or transformation.
- Strong people leadership skills with a collaborative, solutions‑oriented approach.
- Experience developing SOPs, managing complex workflows, and leading cross‑functional teams.
- Comfort operating in a dynamic, entrepreneurial environment with evolving priorities.
- Commitment to equity, community‑centered work, and workplace‑based impact.
- Bachelors degree
- Preference for a candidate with venue/arts experience