Chief Operating Officer

The HR Team

42d•$125,000•Remote

About The Position

The Chief Operating Officer (COO) is responsible for the internal operations and organizational health of Farm Action. Reporting to the President and CEO, the COO oversees day-to-day operations, staff management, finance, compliance, and internal systems. This role ensures the organization runs smoothly so staff can do their best work and the President and CEO can focus on strategy, public leadership, and growth. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in operations management within a mission-driven environment and bring a collaborative, solutions-oriented mindset.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in business administration, non-profit management, finance, or related field. Master's or other advanced degree preferred.
Minimum seven years of senior management experience in nonprofit operations or mission-driven organizations
Demonstrated experience managing staff, budgets, and complex internal systems
Strong understanding of nonprofit finance, compliance, and HR practices
Experience overseeing budgeting, audits, and financial reporting
Proven ability to translate strategy into execution
Strong organizational, problem-solving, and decision-making skills
Ability to manage competing priorities calmly and effectively
Excellent communication skills and ability to work collaboratively with leadership and staff
Commitment to Farm Action's mission and values
Familiarity with advocacy, policy, or public-interest organizations
Though we are fully remote, you must live and work in the United States

Nice To Haves

Experience as a COO, Managing Director, Director of Operations, or similar role
Experience working with boards of directors
Experience managing organizational growth or transition
Knowledge of food and agricultural issues

Responsibilities

Translate strategic priorities into clear operational plans with defined goals, timelines, and accountability
Own execution across the organization and ensure initiatives are delivered on time and at high quality
Oversee all day-to-day operations and ensure strong coordination across teams
Design and implement systems, processes, and workflows that support efficiency and impact
Establish clear performance metrics and ensure consistent tracking and reporting
Identify operational risks early and proactively address gaps or bottlenecks
Build internal structures that allow the organization to scale responsibly and sustainably
Supervise and support staff, directly or indirectly
Lead hiring, onboarding, performance management, mentoring and accountability
Implement and enforce personnel policies and procedures
Foster clear communication, collaboration, and a healthy work culture
Make staffing decisions, including discipline and termination
Lead financial management, including budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow
Oversee payroll, accounting, audits, and financial controls
Prepare financial reports for leadership and the board
Manage relationships with external accountants, auditors, payroll providers, and advisors
Ensure compliance with nonprofit, employment, and regulatory requirements
Maintain financial and accounting records
Oversee grant administration, reporting systems, and compliance
Oversee development calendars, deadlines, and deliverables
Ensure funder requirements are met accurately and on time
Support fundraising strategy in partnership with the President and CEO
Ensure programs, campaigns, and commitments are delivered on time
Track progress and hold teams accountable for results
Troubleshoot operational issues that affect execution and capacity
Serve as the President and CEO's primary internal partner
Provide operational and financial insight to inform strategic decisions
Act as the internal decision-maker on operations and management matters