Chief Operating Officer

***Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. and not require visa sponsorship***

Africatown Community Land Trust (ACLT) seeks a dynamic and highly skilled Chief Operating Officer (COO) to lead and unify ACLT's internal operations department, integrating HR, Finance, Facility, Operations, and IT into one cohesive unit. The COO ensures that all internal systems - compliance, contracting, procedures, and workflows - are aligned, reducing silos and strengthening risk mitigation, vendor/contract oversight, and organizational execution. Due to a recent reorganization, this position will initially be very hands-on as the successful candidates builds out their team.

This position reports directly to the CEO and serves as a senior member of ACLT's Leadership Team. By managing the full scope of internal operations, this role creates capacity for the CEO to focus on external priorities such as fundraising, partnerships, and community engagement.
ABOUT US

Africatown Community Land Trust is working for community ownership of land in the Central District. This supports the cultural and economic thriving of people who are part of the African diaspora in the Greater Seattle area. The ACLT Board is comprised of real estate professionals, business executives, entrepreneurs, and long-time community members from the Central District.

MISSION

To acquire, develop, and steward land in Greater Seattle to empower & preserve the Black Community.

VISION

Vibrant and thriving Black communities through land ownership.
ABOUT THE ROLE

The Chief Operating Officer performs a critical leadership role at ACLT, overseeing all internal functions - people management, day-to-day operations, policy development, financial administration, facilities, and technology - so the organization operates efficiently, compliantly, and in alignment with its strategic goals. The COO creates, manages, and evaluates organizational performance using data metrics, manages RFP and contracting processes, and partners closely with the CEO and Board.
Typical duties and responsibilities:
Leadership & Organizational Management

• Serve as a senior member of ACLT's Leadership Team and key administrative decision-making body.
• Develop a three-year operational plan that includes strategy and vision across HR, Finance, Facilities, IT, and Operations.
• Partner with the CEO and Board to develop, manage, and monitor the organization's annual budget, advising on adjustments as needed.
• Project a positive organizational image to employees, community members, partners, and industry stakeholders.
• Model expected behavior, values, core competencies, and compliance guidelines across all departments.
• Collaborate with all management staff to identify and deliver required administrative support operations.
• Communicate and implement new directives, policies, or procedures; lead organization-wide change management efforts.
• Draft and distribute reports, analyses, and exhibits for funders, partners, and key stakeholders.
• Maintain the organization's administrative policies and procedures manual.
• Ensure organizational compliance with applicable health, building, zoning, safety, licensing, and certification requirements.
• Identify organizational growth opportunities and priorities.
• Represent ACLT externally as needed.

People Management

• Directly supervise the Finance Manager, Ops Project Manager, IT Manager, HR Manager, and Facility Manager.
• Participate in the hiring and training of operations staff at all levels.
• Organize and oversee the work and schedules of departmental managers.
• Conduct timely and constructive performance evaluations.
• Handle employee discipline and termination as needed and in accordance with ACLT policy.
• Provide effective day-to-day leadership presence, staff development, and maintain an open-door approach to support employee performance.
• Mentor and develop staff using a supportive and collaborative approach.

Finance Administration

• Plan, direct, implement, evaluate, monitor, and forecast budgets and costs across each division to achieve financial objectives.
• Partner with the Accounting Consultant and Finance Manager to develop, manage, and maintain Finance and Budget internal controls.
• Support the accounting team in providing the organization with timely access to financial information and enabling strategic budgeting.
• Develop and revise the Financial Policies and Procedures manual as needed.
• Oversee payroll approvals, accounts payable, and financial reporting workflows.
• Other duties as assigned.

Human Resources

• Serve as Chief EEO and compliance officer for all applicable employment laws. Ensure ACLT remains current and in compliance with all state and federal employment regulations.
• Maintain the utmost confidentiality for all personnel matters and organizational information.
• Serve as a resource for staff and management in policy interpretation and application.
  • Oversee/direct the work of the HR Generalist to accomplish HR functions including: developing and maintaining a comprehensive benefits program (with broker support); implementing effective recruitment and retention strategies that include the full hiring lifecycle: maintaining and updating ACLT personnel policies and procedures, including the Employee Handbook, as needed; and managing employee relations and performance management processes.

Information Technology & Business Administration

• Maintain and oversee all facilities, equipment, and supplies to ensure a productive and safe work environment.
• Oversee and collaborate with the IT Manager to coordinate and integrate efforts across operations, technology, and service divisions for more efficient workflows.
• Manage and support IT infrastructure needs; act as administrator for the organization's server/private cloud.
• Maintain document retention policies, ensuring files are destroyed on schedule and that retained records are properly safeguarded.
• Troubleshoot technology questions, repairs, and issues; support all staff with device use, education, and training.
• Work with consultants to ensure technology infrastructure supports organizational and programmatic growth.

Operations & Vendor Oversight

• Develop an annual work plan for the operations group with goals aimed at improving efficiency, lowering costs, and enhancing organizational performance.
• Oversee RFP and contracting processes, vendor and consultant contracts, purchasing, and events - ensuring each is meeting performance goals and contracted deliverables.
• Manage and provide oversight to partnerships (internal and external) as delegated by the CEO.
• Ensure streamlined workflows and coordinated organizational execution across all operational units.
• Review systems and workflow regularly; make recommendations and implement changes to improve efficiency.
• Contribute to the development and achievement of ACLT's strategic goals and overall organizational management.
• Other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Minimum qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Finance, Nonprofit Management, or a related field (or equivalent education and experience).
• Five to seven (5-7) years of experience in operations management, nonprofit administration, or a related leadership role.
• At least two (2) years of prior supervisory experience managing multiple departments or functions.
• Mission-driven; deep understanding of systems of oppression and the historical and unique barriers faced by the Black community due to government policy and legislation.
• Superior presentation and communication skills (written and verbal); high level of emotional intelligence.
• Thorough understanding of best practices, theories, and policies in human resources, business administration, information technology, finance, and facilities management.
• Experience leading or managing human resources functions.
• Experience collaborating with finance consultants to develop financial data and processes.
• Strong managerial, diplomacy, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Strong project management, data management, and dashboard development capabilities.
• Success in roles requiring prioritization, management, and execution of multiple concurrent projects.
• Coaching and leadership skills to develop and motivate direct reports and matrix relationships.
• Solid experience with Google Docs, Microsoft Office Suite (especially Excel), and online systems such as Gusto, Bill.com, QuickBooks, Dropbox, and Zoom.
• Reliable transportation; some driving may be required.

Desired qualifications:

• Master's degree in Public Administration (MPA), Business Administration (MBA), or similar advanced degree.
• Project Management certification (PMP or similar).
• Experience serving as a Chief of Staff or in a senior operational leadership role.
• Experience in a nonprofit or community-based organization serving communities of color.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds at times.

BENEFITS PACKAGE

• Competitive salary: $90,000-$120,000 annually (commensurate with experience)
• 100% Employer medical, dental, and vision paid coverage
• Generous Vacation Paid Time Off (PTO) and Sick Leave
• 11 Paid Holidays and 2 Personal Holidays
• Matching 401(K) Plan up to 4%
• Annual Health Reimbursement Account (HRA) of $1,000
• Flex Spending Account (FSA)
• Employer paid Life and AD&D insurance
• Employer paid Long-term and Short-term Disability insurance
• Professional Development Stipends
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Opportunity to support a great life purpose and make a positive impact in the Seattle community

TO BE CONSIDERED

• Complete an ACLT job application on the ACLT careers page.
• Attach a resume detailing related experience.
• Attach a cover letter stating your qualifications for the position and your interest in ACLT.
• Application material missing cover letters will not be considered.

ACLT is an Affirmative Action Employer and does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, color, national origin, ancestry, familial status, age, disability, marital status, or status with regard to public assistance.