Chief Operating Officer (COO)

Job Description

Job Description

About Us:
HFM is more than an accounting firm - we’re dedicated partners in our clients’ success. For over 20 years, we’ve built a reputation for precision, innovation, and exceptional client service. As a growing team, we combine the personal attention of a close-knit firm with the depth of expertise our clients rely on for their most important decisions. We measure our success by the trust our clients place in us, knowing we’re their first call when it matters most.

Position Summary:
We are seeking an experienced and execution-focused Chief Operating Officer (COO) to lead the day-to-day business operations of the firm. This role allows our partners to focus on client service, advisory work, and business development while the COO ensures the people, processes, technology, and financial administration that keep the firm running smoothly and growing profitably. The ideal candidate is a hands-on operational leader who thrives in a fast-paced, seasonal environment and is energized by building systems that scale.

What you will own:

• Lead day-to-day firm operations across service lines, ensuring efficient and high-quality service delivery
• Design, document, and continuously improve internal workflows, standard operating procedures, and quality controls
• Own capacity planning and workload balancing across the firm, particularly through busy season
• Oversee firm finances, including budgeting, billing, collections, cash flow, and profitability reporting by service line and engagement

What you will assist with:

• Drive strategic planning and firm growth initiatives, including potential mergers, acquisitions, or new service lines
• Manage the firm’s technology stack (practice management, tax/attest software, document management, time and billing) and drive adoption and automation
• Oversee data security, cybersecurity protocols, and IT vendor relationships
• Support marketing, business development, and client experience efforts
• Manage facilities, leases, insurance, risk management, and firm compliance, including peer review readiness and professional standards

About you:

• You are a proven operational leader who is equally comfortable setting strategy and executing the details
• You thrive in a high-velocity, seasonal environment and adapt well to shifting priorities
• 5+ years of progressive operational leadership experience, preferably in professional services
• Strong command of business operations, finance, and human resources
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills (verbal and written)
• Demonstrated ability to lead people, manage change, and improve processes
• Comfortable learning and leveraging accounting industry software and platforms
• You are self-motivated, reliable, discreet with confidential information, and collaborate well with others

Preferred Skills:

• Experience in or with a public accounting firm or other professional services environment
• CPA, MBA, or equivalent credential
• Familiarity with practice management and tax/attest software (e.g., Practice CS, UltraTax, SafeSend, or similar)
• Experience scaling a small-to-midsize organization
• Ability to handle sensitive information with discretion and confidentiality

Benefits:

• 401(k) with matching and profit-sharing contributions
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Flex time outside of busy season
• Competitive bonus structure and referral program
• Opportunity for growth and leadership in a supportive, team-oriented environment