Chief Operating Officer, CSU Spur Campus

Colorado State University•Denver, CO

1d•$175,000 - $215,000

About The Position

The Chief Operating Officer (COO), CSU Spur Campus provides executive-level leadership for the daily operations of the CSU Spur Campus. The COO is responsible for ensuring efficient, effective, and financially responsible operation of the campus, including facilities, events, marketing, and administrative services. The COO convenes the administrative unit for day-to-day operations and tactical decision making. This position oversees campus-wide operations, manages the Spur operating budget, and ensures coordination across functional areas to support programming, partnerships, and public engagement. The COO plays a critical role in translating strategic priorities into operational execution, maintaining operational excellence across a three-building campus, and supporting the long-term sustainability and growth of CSU Spur. On occasion, the COO will cultivate and strengthen relationships with key partners across the Denver Metro Area in alignment with Colorado State University’s strategic engagement priorities. Beginning July 1, 2026, the role will report to the Vice President for Engagement and Extension. The CSU Spur Campus serves as a major CSU presence in Metro Denver, supporting education, research, engagement, innovation, and partnerships. The campus houses three buildings focused on water, food and agriculture, human and animal health, and sustainability. Within the Spur buildings, CSU conducts research and convenes experts from around the globe; students of all ages engage with science and have opportunities for exploratory learning, transforming their thinking about food, water, and health, and the careers available in these fields; and partners join in programming the space and bringing evolving content to the year-round campus. More information about CSU Spur is available at csuspur.org.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in business administration, public administration, higher education administration, or a related field
At least 16 years of progressively responsible experience in operations, administration, or organizational management
Demonstrated experience managing complex budgets and financial operations
Demonstrated experience leading and supervising professional teams
Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities and operate effectively in a fast-paced environment
Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in a related field
Experience in higher education, public sector, or large nonprofit operations
Experience overseeing multi-facility or campus-style operations
Knowledge of CSU policies, procedures, and governance structures
Demonstrated commitment to an inclusive and collaborative workplace
Experience supporting public-facing facilities, events, or community engagement initiatives

Responsibilities

Campus Operations and Administration Provide executive oversight of daily operations for the CSU Spur Campus, including facilities, services, and administrative functions
Ensure coordination and alignment across operations, events, and marketing teams
Develop and implement operational policies, procedures, and performance metrics
Leads the integrated management of Spur campus offices and shared spaces, ensuring efficient, mission‑aligned utilization that supports program delivery, revenue generation, and stakeholder needs
Support campus leadership in operational planning and execution
Other related duties
Financial Management and Budget Oversight Develop, manage, and oversee the CSU Spur Campus operating budget in conjunction with the CSU Budget Office
Monitor expenditures, revenues and financial performance metrics to ensure fiscal responsibility and sustainability
Prepare financial reports and recommendations for campus and System leadership
Coordinate with Colorado State University finance staff to ensure compliance with financial policies
Leadership and Supervision Supervise and support the directors of Facilities Management and Events and managers of Administration and Staff/Program Development
Provide leadership development, performance management, and strategic guidance
Foster a collaborative, accountable, and high-performing campus culture
Strategic Coordination and Engagement Partner with University leadership to cultivate and strengthen relationships with key partners across the Denver Metro Area
Support coordination with CSU System offices, campus partners, and external stakeholders
Contribute operational expertise to long-term planning and campus growth efforts