Chief Operating Officer

Salary starts at $150,000 per year and up based on experienceLead Change. Transform Lives. Be Our Next COO!Join the Crossroads YMCA in Northwest Indiana, where we impact over 128,000 lives annually, empowering individuals, strengthening families, and uplifting entire communities.We’re seeking a passionate Chief Operating Officer (COO) to drive our mission of transforming lives and creating lasting impact. If you’re a visionary leader with a heart for community and the skills to elevate our thriving organization, we want you on our team!About the RoleThe Chief Operating Officer (COO) serves as the operational leader of the organization that is responsible for turning strategic vision into measurable results. Reporting directly to the CEO, the COO oversees multi-site operations, executive leaders, branch performance, financial sustainability, and organizational culture. This role is highly visible, fast-paced, and mission-centered. The COO is expected to lead through influence, accountability, collaboration, and operational discipline while ensuring the organization continues to grow, innovate, and serve the community effectively. The COO must balance people leadership with strong business acumen, making decisions that support both mission impact and financial sustainability.Who This Position Is ForThis role may be a strong fit for someone who:Thrives in Multi-Site Operational LeadershipYou enjoy overseeing complex operations across multiple locations, leaders, and functional areas. You can quickly shift between strategy discussions, operational problem-solving, and relationship management.Leads Through Accountability and RelationshipsYou are comfortable holding leaders accountable while also coaching and developing them. You build trust easily and know how to navigate difficult conversations with empathy and professionalism.Is Mission-Driven but Business-MindedYou believe strongly in community impact and understand that mission success requires financial discipline, operational efficiency, and measurable outcomes.Excels in Executive-Level Decision MakingYou can analyze data, monitor KPIs, evaluate organizational performance, and make informed decisions under pressure.Enjoys Leading Through ChangeYou are energized by growth, innovation, expansion opportunities, and organizational transformation. You are adaptable and comfortable leading teams through ambiguity and evolving priorities.Understands Nonprofit and Community LeadershipYou value collaboration with volunteers, boards, donors, and community stakeholders and understand the importance of external relationship management and fundraising support.Is Comfortable Being Visible and AccessibleThis is not a behind-the-scenes executive role. Success requires frequent interaction with staff, branch leaders, board members, volunteers, donors, and community partners across the organization.Who This Position Is Probably NOT ForThis role may not be the right fit for someone who:Prefers Narrow or Specialized ResponsibilitiesThis position requires broad oversight across operations, finance, leadership development, membership growth, program performance, compliance, and community engagement.Avoids Difficult Accountability ConversationsThe COO must address performance issues directly, establish clear expectations, and make difficult operational decisions when necessary.Prefers Predictable or Low-Pressure EnvironmentsThe pace is demanding and priorities may shift quickly. The role requires balancing strategic planning with immediate operational needs across multiple departments and locations.Is Uncomfortable with Financial OversightThe COO is responsible for managing large budgets, monitoring financial performance, identifying revenue opportunities, and ensuring long-term sustainability.Wants Minimal Evening, Weekend, or Community Engagement CommitmentsThis role includes community visibility, board engagement, fundraising activities, branch visits, and occasional evening/weekend responsibilities.Struggles with Change ManagementThe organization is continuously evolving to meet community needs. Leaders who resist innovation, adaptability, or organizational change may struggle in this environment.Prefers Independent Work Over Collaborative LeadershipSuccess in this role depends on cross-functional collaboration, communication, and the ability to align diverse stakeholders around common goals.What Success Looks Like in This RoleSuccessful COOs in this role will:Build strong, high-performing operational leadersImprove organizational efficiency and accountabilityStrengthen member experience and community impactAchieve or exceed operational and financial goalsFoster collaboration across branches and departmentsSupport innovation and sustainable growthBuild strong relationships with boards, donors, and community partnersCreate a culture where staff feel supported, challenged, and connected to the missionWhat Candidates Should Realistically ExpectA highly relational leadership environmentSignificant responsibility and organizational visibilityFrequent problem-solving and decision-makingComplex operational oversight across multiple business unitsHigh expectations for leadership presence and communicationA mission-focused culture that also prioritizes measurable performanceTravel between locations within Northwest IndianaOccasional evening and weekend commitmentsIdeal BackgroundCandidates most likely to succeed typically bring:10+ years of senior executive leadership experienceExperience leading large teams and multi-site operationsStrong financial and operational management skillsExperience in nonprofit, YMCA, healthcare, education, community services, or mission-driven organizationsProven success leading organizational growth and changeStrong communication and stakeholder engagement skillsPreferred:YMCA leadership experienceMaster’s degree in business, nonprofit management, or related fieldExperience managing budgets of $15M+Our benefits include access to UnitedHealthcare Medical coverage, along with complimentary dental and vision care for employees. Additionally, we provide free Long-Term Disability (LTD) and Life Insurance coverage, safeguarding you and your loved ones. We understand the importance of work-life balance, which is why we offer a generous Paid Time Off (PTO) policy, allowing you to recharge and enjoy quality time with your loved ones. Planning for your future is essential, and we're committed to helping you build a secure retirement. That's why we proudly offer a 12% employer contribution to your retirement savings, ensuring a brighter tomorrow. Your well-being is our priority, and our benefits reflect our dedication to supporting you every step of the way. We encourage our staff to take full advantage of our facilities. Full-time employees receive a complimentary family membership, along with 50% off most of our programs. It’s our way of supporting their health and well-being, while fostering a balanced and active lifestyle. #J-18808-Ljbffr