Chief Operating Officer

Unclassified - Cambridge, MA

Full-time - Executive

Cambridge, MA

About the position

The Justice Climate Fund (JCF) is a newly established non-profit organization dedicated to leading a national coalition aimed at maximizing the impact of its $940 million award from the Clean Communities Investment Accelerator program (CCIA), part of the EPA's Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund (GGRF). The primary mission of JCF is to rapidly reduce greenhouse gas emissions while transforming low-income and disadvantaged communities through enhanced environmental, energy, climate, health, and economic benefits. The organization is tasked with attracting matching private capital for investment into qualified projects, thereby ensuring sustainable growth and community development. As the Chief Operating Officer (COO), you will play a pivotal role in overseeing the operational efficiency and financial sustainability of JCF. Reporting directly to the CEO, the COO will provide essential leadership and management to ensure that JCF maintains exemplary operational protocols and industry-leading controls. This position requires a strategic mindset to implement effective administrative and reporting procedures that will facilitate the organization's growth and ensure its financial strength. The COO will be responsible for the day-to-day management of operations, including human resources, technology, and administrative functions. You will collaborate with the leadership team to develop and implement plans for the operational infrastructure, analyze current technology systems, and provide operational leadership for strategic plan implementation. Additionally, you will manage procurement processes, oversee contract management, and ensure the effectiveness of all organizational processes. Financial oversight is also a critical component of this role, where you will review financial models, set business KPIs, and assist in budget development and monitoring. Compliance and risk management are key responsibilities, ensuring that JCF adheres to regulatory requirements and industry standards while mitigating operational risks. The COO will also facilitate the renewal of insurance coverages and work closely with human resources on employee relations matters. This position is ideal for a candidate with a strong background in nonprofit management, a passion for environmental justice, and a commitment to fostering an inclusive organizational culture.

Responsibilities

• Provide day-to-day leadership and management oversight of operations across the organization, including human resources, technology, and administrative functions.
• Collaborate with the leadership team to develop and implement plans for the operational infrastructure of systems, processes, and personnel designed to accommodate the growth objectives of the organization.
• Analyze the current technology infrastructure and manage the next level of information technology and systems that support the growth of specific programs and the organization overall.
• Provide operational leadership and input for strategic plan implementation processes.
• Manage the implementation of procurement and purchasing process policies.
• Lead contract/RFP management processes and work to identify preferred vendors.
• Direct the measurement of effectiveness of all organizational processes.
• Provide timely, accurate, and complete reports on the operating condition of the organization for the CEO, board, and external stakeholders as needed.
• Promote and maintain company culture in collaboration with the management team and human resources.
• Review financial models used to support operational decision-making and strategies with the CEO, CFO, and leadership team.
• Set and monitor business KPIs.
• Assist the CEO and CFO with developing yearly project and operational budgets.
• Review budgets and staffing with the team to identify future hiring opportunities.
• Spearhead strategies and implement policies and procedures to drive the company’s operational growth.
• Assist with the annual audit with external auditors and the finance department.
• Serve as one of the key staff liaisons to the Board of Directors, presenting at Board of Directors or Committee meetings as directed by the CEO.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, industry standards, and best practices.
• Mitigate operational and strategic risks through proactive risk management strategies.
• Ensure adequate procedures and systems are in place which safeguard, track, and secure JCF’s assets.
• Oversee and facilitate the renewal of insurance coverages including professional liability insurance, employers professional liability insurance, cyber insurance, general business insurance, and workers compensation insurance.
• Work with human resources concerning employee relations matters.

Requirements

• 10+ years of progressive and relevant experience.
• Master's degree in business or nonprofit management preferred, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Deep alignment with JCF's mission, demonstrating a genuine passion for and experience in environmental justice and community lending.
• Experience with budgeting, forecasting, and monitoring KPIs.
• Experience in strategic planning implementation, organizational structure, administrative operations, and fundraising.
• Ability to gather, analyze, and summarize data for reports and find solutions to business challenges.
• Problem-solving skills with a track record of balancing fast-paced priorities with significant, longer-term strategic efforts.
• Start-up experience is a plus.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment and discretion with high ethical standards.
• Commitment to mentoring and investing in staff at all levels to achieve their highest potential and design pathways to advancement in their career journeys.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to think strategically and adapt to changing business environments.
• Entrepreneurial mindset and passion for building and growing businesses.

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Comprehensive health benefits package
• Flexible work arrangements
• Professional development funds and opportunities
• Collaborative and inclusive organizational culture