Chief Operations Officer

KESHET•Northbrook, IL

4d•$140,000 - $180,000

About The Position

Reporting to the Chief Executive Officer, the Chief Operations Officer (COO) is responsible for the overall leadership, management, and performance of Keshet’s operational functions across all locations. The COO ensures that day-to-day operations are efficient, effective, and aligned with the organization’s mission, strategic priorities, and growth objectives. As a key member of the executive leadership team, the COO will play a central role in developing and formalizing Keshet’s operations strategy, systems, and infrastructure. This role will establish and implement the processes and structures needed to support consistency, scalability, and long-term success, working closely with the CEO and senior leadership to drive execution and strengthen organizational performance.

Requirements

Bachelor’s Degree required; advanced degree (MBA or related field) preferred.
10+ years of progressive experience in operational leadership roles; nonprofit experience preferred.
Experience overseeing complex, multi-site operations with the ability to help Keshet grow.
Proven ability to lead and develop high-performing teams and managers.
Strong operational and organizational leadership skills, with the ability to build systems and improve performance.
Experience managing vendor relationships, contracts, and operational services.
Solid financial acumen, including budgeting, cost analysis, and contract negotiation.
Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities.
High level of integrity, professionalism, and accountability.
Commitment to teamwork, open communication, and a respectful, inclusive work environment.
A valid Driver’s license and a criminal and Motor Vehicle record which meets company standards.

Nice To Haves

Experience managing or activating a multi-use facility, community center, or shared space.
Experience overseeing rentals, scheduling, or space utilization strategies.
Ability to think creatively about how to maximize use of space while aligning with mission and community needs.
Experience building partnerships with community organizations, agencies, or stakeholders.

Responsibilities

Executive Leadership & Organizational Alignment Serve as a key member of Keshet’s Executive Leadership Team, contributing to organizational strategy, planning, and decision-making.
Partner closely with the CEO to translate strategic priorities into operational execution.
Collaborate with Finance, HR, and Program leadership to ensure alignment across all departments.
Build organizational infrastructure to support growth, scalability, and long-term sustainability.
Operations Leadership & Management Lead all operational functions across multiple Keshet locations, ensuring consistency, efficiency, and high-quality support of programs and services.
Establish and implement operational processes, procedures, and systems to support organizational effectiveness and growth.
Supervise and support operational staff and managers, providing clear direction, coaching, and accountability.
Anticipate operational needs and challenges, proactively implementing solutions.
Identify inefficiencies and drive continuous process improvement across the organization.
Serve as the primary point of contact for operational issues, including urgent and time-sensitive matters.
Ensure strong cross-functional coordination to support seamless day-to-day operations.
Community Center Operations & External Engagement Oversee the day-to-day operations of Keshet’s new Community Center, ensuring it operates as a welcoming, inclusive, and highly functional space.
Develop and manage a building utilization strategy, including internal program use and external rentals.
Lead all aspects of rental operations, including policies, pricing, scheduling, and client experience.
Build and maintain relationships with community organizations, partners, and stakeholders to activate the space and expand Keshet’s community presence.
Ensure the building reflects Keshet’s commitment to accessibility, inclusion, and a “community of belonging.”
Facilities, Vendors, and Infrastructure Oversee all Keshet facilities across locations, ensuring they are safe, well-maintained, and responsive to programmatic needs.
Ensure compliance with all building codes, safety regulations, and licensing requirements through regular inspections and proactive issue resolution.
Manage all vendor relationships, including contract negotiation, performance management, and cost control (e.g., cleaning, maintenance, snow removal, security).
Oversee purchasing and resource allocation to support operational needs efficiently and cost-effectively.
Lead facilities planning related to the new building and ongoing maintenance across sites.
IT, Systems, and Fleet Management Oversee organizational IT systems and infrastructure, ensuring reliable, secure, and effective technology solutions that support staff and programs.
Partner with internal and external stakeholders to improve systems, data management, and operational tools.
Oversee Keshet’s vehicle fleet, including maintenance, compliance, scheduling systems, and safety protocols.
Organizational Effectiveness & Strategy Execution Translate organizational strategy into clear, actionable operational plans and ensure consistent execution.
Use data, metrics, and operational insights to evaluate performance and inform decision-making.
Strengthen systems and processes to support organizational growth and scalability.
Identify operational risks and implement mitigation strategies to ensure continuity and resilience.
Financial & Resource Management Partner with Finance to support budget development, forecasting, and cost management related to operations.
Oversee operational budgets, ensuring responsible stewardship of resources.
Identify opportunities for cost efficiencies and revenue generation, including through facility rentals and partnerships.
General Management Serve as a collaborative, values-driven leader who models Keshet’s core values: communication, respect, teamwork, patience, positivity, and integrity.
Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
Take on additional responsibilities as assigned by the Chief Executive Officer.