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Role Description

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.

Key Responsibilities

• Operations and Execution
  • 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
• People and Management
  • 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
• Finance and Compliance
  • 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
• Development Operations
  • 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
• Execution and Accountability
  • 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
• Partnership with the President/CEO
  • 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

Qualifications

• 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

Preferred Qualifications

• 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

Benefits

• A $350 monthly healthcare stipend
• Eight paid holidays
• 15 days of paid time off annually

How to Apply

To apply, please submit a resume and cover letter outlining your interest in the role and our mission. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

To learn more about Farm Action, visit https://farmaction.us/ . Farm Action is an Equal Opportunity Employer.