Chief Operating Officer (COO)

Job Posting Organization:
Save the Children is a leading independent children's organization with over 100 years of experience dedicated to ensuring every child has the right to a future. The organization operates globally, providing support to children in need, particularly in times of crisis. Its mission is to fulfill children's rights to a healthy start in life, educational opportunities, and protection from harm. Save the Children has a significant presence in various countries, working tirelessly to transform lives and create a better future for children worldwide.

Job Overview:
The Chief Operating Officer (COO) at Save the Children Canada (SCC) plays a crucial role in providing executive leadership and strategic direction for the organization. Reporting directly to the President and CEO, the COO is responsible for overseeing the development and execution of SCC's strategy, business operations, and organizational transformation objectives. This position requires a strong focus on operational excellence, ensuring that SCC's systems, processes, and infrastructure align with its vision and sustainability goals. The COO will lead various operational functions, including IT, organizational policy systems, safeguarding, and facilities management, while also being accountable for strategic oversight of SCC's transformation projects. The role demands a collaborative approach, working closely with the Executive Team and Leadership Team to translate strategic vision into actionable priorities and drive cross-functional collaboration.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The COO's responsibilities encompass a wide range of duties, including overseeing day-to-day organizational operations, leading the development and implementation of comprehensive organizational strategies, and ensuring alignment with SCC's strategic impact areas. The COO will facilitate strategic visioning and long-term planning, monitor organizational performance, and lead strategic reporting. Additionally, the COO will represent SCC in global forums and on the Board's Strategy and Risk Committee. The role also involves driving organizational transformation initiatives, managing risks, and ensuring compliance with governance standards. The COO will lead a team, providing strategic direction, coaching, and performance management while fostering a respectful and inclusive workplace culture. Other responsibilities include budget management, recruitment, change management, and ensuring adherence to SCC's values and policies.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the COO position must possess a post-secondary education in a relevant field or equivalent experience. A minimum of 10 years of senior leadership experience in business operations management, preferably within a not-for-profit setting, is required. Familiarity with international humanitarian organizations and extensive experience in project management and budget analysis are essential. Strong change leadership and risk management skills are necessary to support the implementation of organizational change and strategic initiatives. The ideal candidate should have exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively at all levels of the organization and build trust among stakeholders.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a post-secondary degree in a relevant field, such as business administration, nonprofit management, or a related discipline. Equivalent experience in a senior leadership role within a similar context may also be considered. Continuous professional development and training in areas relevant to organizational management and leadership are highly valued.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 10 years of senior leadership experience, particularly in business operations management roles. Candidates should have a proven track record of success in managing complex organizations, preferably in the nonprofit sector. Experience in international humanitarian organizations or mission-driven global systems is highly desirable. The ability to navigate high-pressure environments and demonstrate sound judgment in decision-making is crucial for this role.

Languages:
While proficiency in English is mandatory, additional language skills are considered a strong asset, particularly for global collaboration. Candidates who can communicate effectively in multiple languages will have an advantage in this role, as it involves engaging with diverse stakeholders across various regions.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Toronto, Ontario, and candidates must be able to commute to the office at least one day per week. Relocation assistance may be available for the right candidate. The salary range for this position is between $167,473.73 to $201,092.10 CAD, depending on skills and experience. The organization offers a comprehensive benefits package, including a hybrid workplace model, flexible work hours, five weeks of annual paid vacation, paid personal days, sick leave, parental leave top-up, and employer contributions to a group pension plan. Employees also have access to learning and development opportunities, an Employee Assistance Program, and organization-wide membership access to Headspace.