Chief Operating Officer (COO)

Dayforce•Williamsville, NY

19d•Onsite

About The Position

The Arc Erie County NY is a leading nonprofit supporting people with developmental & intellectual disabilities across Western New York, through innovative residential, educational, clinical and employment services. This is an opportunity to reshape how an entire system of care operates—not just manage it. Our next Chief Operating Officer will do more than oversee operations—they will define what operational excellence looks like in a mission-driven organization for the next decade. You will step into a system with strong foundations and be expected to elevate performance, unify services, and unlock growth opportunities across a complex, multi-division organization. This role is for a leader driven to elevate and leave a lasting impact- not simply maintain the status quo. It requires a genuine passion for improving the lives of children and adults with developmental disabilities and a deep connection to the mission we serve every day. Most COO roles maintain. This one builds. You will operate in a mission-critical, 24/7 environment where your decisions directly impact lives. Partner directly with the CEO and Board to shape long-term strategy. Influence systems governed by complex regulatory environments (OPWDD, NYSED, Medicaid). Lead in a space where purpose and performance must coexist—and both matter equally.

Requirements

Master’s Degree in a relevant field
10+ years progressive leadership experience
5+ years in senior/executive leadership
Experience overseeing large, multi-program operations and budgets
Strong working knowledge of regulatory environments and funding models (Medicaid, OPWDD, Social Security, etc.)
A strategic operator who turns vision into execution
A decisive, builder of leaders comfortable owning outcomes in complex environments
Financially fluent, with a deep understanding of budgets, margins, and performance drivers
Mission-driven, with a genuine commitment to disability rights, inclusion, and person-centered care

Responsibilities

Lead and optimize a diverse portfolio of services—from 25+ residential programs to clinical, vocational, day habilitation, educational divisions—ensuring consistency, quality, and full utilization across all lines.
Translate vision into action—driving clear goals, accountability structures, and outcomes across Vice Presidents, Directors, and Principals.
Own operational budgets and performance—balancing mission with margin through smarter utilization, staffing models, and revenue optimization.
Build and coach high-performing senior leaders who can scale impact, strengthen culture, and drive accountability across the organization.
Identify new service opportunities, expand programs, and play a key role in initiatives like Black Water Acres, a first-of-its-kind accessible workforce and community development project.
Break down silos and create a coordinated, person-centered service model that improves outcomes for the people we support.