Chief Operating Officer (COO)

Hoyt, Filippetti, and Malaghan LLC • Groton, CT

8d

About The Position

HFM is seeking an experienced and execution-focused Chief Operating Officer (COO) to lead the day-to-day business operations of the firm. This role allows our partners to focus on client service, advisory work, and business development while the COO ensures the people, processes, technology, and financial administration that keep the firm running smoothly and growing profitably. The ideal candidate is a hands-on operational leader who thrives in a fast-paced, seasonal environment and is energized by building systems that scale.

Requirements

• Proven operational leader who is equally comfortable setting strategy and executing the details
• Thrives in a high-velocity, seasonal environment and adapts well to shifting priorities
• 5+ years of progressive operational leadership experience, preferably in professional services
• Strong command of business operations, finance, and human resources
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills (verbal and written)
• Demonstrated ability to lead people, manage change, and improve processes
• Comfortable learning and leveraging accounting industry software and platforms
• Self-motivated, reliable, discreet with confidential information, and collaborates well with others

Nice To Haves

• Experience in or with a public accounting firm or other professional services environment
• CPA, MBA, or equivalent credential
• Familiarity with practice management and tax/attest software (e.g., Practice CS, UltraTax, SafeSend, or similar)
• Experience scaling a small-to-midsize organization
• Ability to handle sensitive information with discretion and confidentiality

Responsibilities

• Lead day-to-day firm operations across service lines, ensuring efficient and high-quality service delivery
• Design, document, and continuously improve internal workflows, standard operating procedures, and quality controls
• Own capacity planning and workload balancing across the firm, particularly through busy season
• Oversee firm finances, including budgeting, billing, collections, cash flow, and profitability reporting by service line and engagement
• Drive strategic planning and firm growth initiatives, including potential mergers, acquisitions, or new service lines
• Manage the firm’s technology stack (practice management, tax/attest software, document management, time and billing) and drive adoption and automation
• Oversee data security, cybersecurity protocols, and IT vendor relationships
• Support marketing, business development, and client experience efforts
• Manage facilities, leases, insurance, risk management, and firm compliance, including peer review readiness and professional standards

Benefits

• 401(k) with matching and profit-sharing contributions
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Flex time outside of busy season
• Competitive bonus structure and referral program
• Opportunity for growth and leadership in a supportive, team-oriented environment

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Executive