Chief Operating Officer (, AK, United States)

A mission-driven team working at the intersection of science, education, and community. Based in the heart of coastal Alaska, they are dedicated to building resilient communities and studying and teaching about the ecosystems that support them.

I f you're a “do-er” who is passionate about science with purpose and shaping a robust future for our coast al communities , you'll find your people here in a professional, casual, and supportive work environment where a variety of projects collectively serve the organization’s mission.

Reporting directly to the President & CEO, the COO will take the lead on managing and improving internal operations, ensuring the organization stays efficient, compliant, and closely aligned with their mission. This newly created role offers the opportunity to help define how our client grows and evolves as an organization. The ideal candidate is a collaborative, detail - oriented professional, and s trong experience in federal grant compliance, nonprofit or government entities , and people management is a must.

Location: Looking for a place where meaningful work meets an exceptional quality of life? Welcome to Cordova—a family-friendly, inviting coastal town where the great outdoors is part of your daily routine.

Surrounded by stunning mountains, lush forests, and vibrant wetlands, Cordova offers endless opportunities for year-round recreation, from hiking and skiing to hunting, fishing, and wildlife watching. It’s a place where kids can explore safely, neighbors know each other by name, and nature is just steps from your front door.

Whether you’re raising a family or simply seeking a better work-life balance, Cordova delivers a rare combination of adventure, community, and calm, where our client offers an informal yet high-performing working environment . This is “the real Alaska” and it might just be the perfect place to call home.

Key Responsibilities:

• Strategic & Operational Leadership: The COO oversees all internal operations – including finance, human resources, administration and facilities – to ensure alignment with strategic goals. Partnering with the President & CE O and senior leadership, the COO will dev elop key initiatives , lead strategic plan implementation, and promot e a culture of excellence and accountability. Ultimately, the role will assist in unifying departments around shared values and a commitment to positive impact while ensuring operational excellence.
• Team Supervision and Personnel Management: Along with direct ly supervisin g key members of the leadership , finance, and operations teams, the COO will oversee the work of some consultants and contractors , ensuring organizational and compliance standards alignment.
• Financial Oversight and Compliance: This role is responsible for maintaining adherence to federal and state regulations, including 2 CFR 200 (Uniform Guidance). The COO ensures accurate forecasting , timely financial reporting and full compliance with grant requirements. They will also regularly identify cost efficiency improvement opportunities, as well as exploring new revenue generating initiatives. They will work with a fractional finance director and bookkeepers to accomplish this aspect of the role.
• Grants & Contracts Administration: The COO ensures key staff engage in active monitor ing and manage ment of grant and contract budgets and expenditures and ensures compliance in close coordination with program and finance staff. This includes regularly reviewing and adjusting spending plans to ensure alignment with both funding requirements and organizational goals. The COO also leads the contract review and risk assessment processes, using judgment to identify when legal counsel should be engaged for additional guidance.
• Risk Management and Legal Oversight: The COO maintains and enhances systems supporting institutional risk management, regulatory compliance and overall operational resilience. They also serve as the primary liaison for legal counsel on operational matters.
• Mission and Culture Champion: By fostering a respectful, inclusive , and collaborative work environment, the COO helps support staff motivation, retention and professional growth . Through intentional leadership, this role cultivates a sense of shared ownership and accountability for the organization’s success.

• At least 5 years of progressively responsible leadership experience in nonprofit or mission-driven organizational management
• Strong knowledge of nonprofit regulations and compliance, and federal grants management, especially 2 CFR 200 (Uniform Guidance)
• A d egree ( Bachelor’s or higher) in a relevant field
• Demonstrated experience in budgeting, forecasting , personnel supervision, and organizational development
• Deep f amiliarity with grants and contracting processes; ability to renew and adjust budgets and spending plans
• Competency in evaluating institutional risk and managing contract and legal processes and statutory compliance
• Proven ability to lead and motivate cross-functional teams in support of a shared mission

• Experience managing hybrid teams and working with fractional or consultant-based roles .

Our recruiters have over 50 years of combined experience placing candidates in rewarding roles. This is a free service for job seekers. Contact us today!

Additional Postings available from PeopleAK