Chief Operations Officer

Make-A-Wish Central & South Texas • Austin, TX

7d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Chief Operations Officer (COO) is a senior executive responsible for directing and managing the day-to-day operations of the organization in alignment with the policies, goals, and strategic direction established by the CEO and Board of Directors. As the leader of all operational functions, the COO oversees human resources, finance, data and technology, facilities, compliance, and administrative operations to ensure efficient and effective execution of organizational priorities. This role serves as a key partner to the CEO, supporting both daily operations and long-term strategic planning, while building the operational infrastructure required to grant every eligible wish. The COO is accountable for achieving short- and long-range goals related to operational performance, organizational growth, financial stewardship, and staff experience.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or related field required; advanced degree preferred
• 10+ years of progressive leadership experience in operations, finance, or nonprofit management
• Commitment to and a passion for the mission of Make-A-Wish.
• Demonstrated experience overseeing finance, HR, and multi-functional operations
• Strong knowledge of nonprofit accounting, audits, and compliance requirements
• Experience with budgeting, financial forecasting, and risk management
• Proven ability to lead organizational change and scale operations
• Strong leadership, communication, and strategic thinking skills
• Able to provide management, leadership, and direction consistent with Make-A-Wish core values and business practices.
• A management style that demonstrates cultural competency, promotes teamwork, enhances creativity and motivation, facilitates communications, and builds consensus.
• Able to work in a fast-paced environment managing multiple priorities and deliverables simultaneously.
• Demonstrated ability in clear and effective written and oral communication.
• Excellent planning, organizational skills, and customer service skills.
• Sharp technology skills, efficient and effective reporting and project management skills, quick learner, and experience with Salesforce database and Paylocity HRIS is a plus.
• Ability to speak Spanish would be an asset but not a requirement.
• Ability to deal with sensitive information with a high level of trust and confidentiality.
• Must have reliable mode of transportation to travel across chapter territory for department or overall organization needs regularly.
• Proficiency in all Microsoft computer programs, including Outlook, Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

Nice To Haves

• Advanced degree preferred
• Experience with Salesforce database and Paylocity HRIS is a plus.
• Ability to speak Spanish would be an asset but not a requirement.

Responsibilities

• Partner with the CEO and Board to establish and execute long- and short-range strategic priorities, operating plans, and organizational goals
• Translate strategic vision into operational plans, systems, and measurable outcomes
• Regularly engage with the Board of Directors and senior leadership on organizational performance, risks, and opportunities
• Lead cross-functional alignment to ensure operational support of mission delivery
• Support the CEO in the day-to-day functioning of the organization
• Serve as the senior-most finance leader for the chapter, with responsibility for financial performance and fiscal integrity
• Direct all aspects of financial management including accounting, budgeting, forecasting, reporting, audit, and compliance
• Lead annual budgeting process, monitor cash flow, and ensure responsible stewardship of assets
• Oversee preparation of financial statements, Form 990, and external audit processes
• Establish and enforce financial controls, policies, and procedures to mitigate risk and ensure compliance
• Provide financial reporting and insights to the CEO, Board, and Finance Committee
• Oversee all operational systems and processes to ensure efficiency, scalability, and alignment with organizational goals
• Direct and continuously improve organizational policies, procedures, and internal controls
• Lead cross-departmental operational planning, performance monitoring, and process optimization
• Ensure effective support systems for mission delivery, including data, reporting, and administrative functions
• Identify and implement operational improvements to enhance performance and reduce costs
• Oversee all human resource functions including recruitment, onboarding, performance management, employee relations, compensation, and benefits
• Ensure compliance with employment laws, internal policies, and Make-A-Wish America standards
• Lead staff engagement, retention strategies, and performance review processes
• Maintain and evolve HR systems, policies, and employee handbook
• Foster a strong, inclusive, and values-driven culture aligned with Make-A-Wish mission and CommUNITY and Belonging principles
• Oversee organizational data systems, including CRM (Salesforce) and reporting platforms, ensuring accuracy, security, and usability
• Lead technology strategy, including IT infrastructure, tools, and staff support
• Ensure data-driven decision making across departments
• Serve as liaison with Make-A-Wish America on national technology and data initiatives, including serving as the Chapter Data Steward and Galaxy Ambassador
• Ensure compliance with all financial, legal, and operational requirements, including Make-A-Wish America standards
• Lead internal and external audit processes and maintain audit readiness
• Oversee risk management, contracts, insurance, and regulatory filings
• Maintain organizational policies and ensure consistent implementation
• Support Board governance through reporting, documentation, and committee engagement
• Oversee facilities management, including leases, office operations, and vendor relationships
• Ensure staff have the tools, systems, and environment needed to perform effectively
• Manage administrative services in support of organizational efficiency
• Lead and develop operations, finance, HR, and administrative staff
• Establish clear goals, accountability structures, and performance expectations
• Promote professional development and succession planning across operational functions
• Foster collaboration across departments to support mission delivery

Benefits

• Full individual insurance premium coverage for Medical, Dental and Vision care.
• Optional employee-paid family coverage.
• Health Savings Account options with monthly employer contributions.
• Employer-paid life insurance policy and STD/LTD policies.
• Simple IRA Retirement Savings Plan with 3% employer matching.
• 2 personal days off (PD), birthday day off, 15 accrued paid time off days (PTO), Quarterly Wellness days off, 13 additional paid holidays annually; PTO increases with tenure.
• Monthly business mileage reimbursement
• Paid Parental Leave
• Annual Spanish bilingual stipend available upon successful completion of language proficiency skills test.
• Discounts and special offers with entertainment and travel vendors.

What This Job Offers

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