Chief Operating Officer

About the role

The Animal Legal Defense Fund is seeking a Chief Operating Officer (COO) to join its senior leadership team. This remote, full‑time position will drive internal operations, strengthen infrastructure, and support the organization’s mission to protect animals through the legal system.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the Human Resources, Technology, and Operations teams, setting strategy, vision, and culture for each department.
• Develop and implement policies that guide day‑to‑day operational activities across the organization.
• Optimize resource allocation, improve efficiency, and foster inter‑departmental collaboration.
• Partner with the Chief Financial Officer on shared services such as payroll and financial reporting.
• Prepare and present operational reports to the Board of Directors and senior leadership.
• Oversee budgeting, financial planning, and performance monitoring for the operations functions.
• Identify and execute opportunities to enhance internal processes and organizational growth.

Required profile

• Proven senior‑level experience managing complex operations in a nonprofit or mission‑driven environment.
• Strong leadership and people‑management skills, with a track record of building high‑performing teams.
• Strategic thinker capable of aligning operational initiatives with organizational goals.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder‑management abilities.

Required skills