Audubon is seeking a visionary and growth-focused Chief Operating Officer to join the team. Reporting to President & CEO, David Yarnold, the COO will be passionate about operating efficiency and deploying at scale, with a focus on building our Audubon’s strategic plan and accelerating the changes of the business and integration. In addition, s/he will also have direct oversight of finance, IT and legal functions including running the daily operations.
- Run Audubon’s business with an operational mindset, focused on improving the quality and efficiency of services that the NAS provides - while increasing their ability to develop and deliver scalable programs
- Oversee financial integrity of Audubon’s operations through budgeting and other mechanisms, while anticipating business opportunities and threats
- Lead the evolution of Audubon’s technology to support the growth of the business and the network
- Create and execute Audubon’s internal and external technology strategy and roadmap
- Drive integration of internal local and national technology to support a more aligned network
- Utilize technology to ignite Audubon’s conservation efforts and grow the network and audience
- Leverage the emerging movement moment and facilitate the full integration of NAS’ mission - conservation work, network and development
- Integrate conservation, network and development with the core support functions including marketing, communications, content and operations
- Support the culture of integration and collaboration at Audubon
- Provide strategic input and leadership on the expansion and integration of Audubon’s network expanding the chapter network
- Serve as an advocate and thought-leader for Audubon at board, chapter, fundraising and networking activities as a representative of Audubon management
The successful candidate will be a visionary leader with a proven track record inside of high growth organizations. S/he will understand how to operate at a national scale as well as at local markets. Internally, this individual will serve as an enabling force to constantly raise the bar and keep the team focused on growing the business. S/he will have an eye toward innovation and creativity, with an ability to position Audubon for significant growth in the coming years.
The ideal candidate will have:
- 15+ years of operating experience - managing through significant growth and scaling
- Proven expertise and ability to bridge long-term strategy with short-term goals, ensuring that the team has the necessary direction, information, resources and support
- Deep knowledge and understanding of operations (IT, finance, legal) and the complexities of a geographically dispersed organization
- Familiarity with marketing and membership functions within legacy brands and how to build new audiences within a digital environment
- Strong experience building, motivating and retaining high performing teams
- A ‘lead by example’ mentality, setting the tone for the culture of the organization and building relationships based on trust, honesty and integrity