Chief Operating Officer

Background:

Home/Life Services, Inc. (HLS) is a highly regarded nonprofit organization dedicated to providing state-of-the-art transitional housing facilities funded by the New York City Department of Homeless Services. Established in 1995, Home/Life Services has had an unwavering commitment to provide a path toward permanent housing for families, adult couples and most recently asylum seekers using a compassionate, client centered and holistic model providing social services and working to eliminate barriers to independent living. Responding to the changing needs of New Yorkers, HLS operates 17 shelter facilities across three New York City boroughs with a budget of $120 million and a diverse and experienced staff of approximately 600 employees serving over 5,000 people annually.  

With significant growth in size and budget and the recent departure of the founding co-CEO’s, the HLS Board and Interim CEO are strengthening the leadership structure for sustained development and expansion of its services for decades to come. As such the inaugural Chief Operating Officer will support the CEO, work with the entire leadership team and support staff in managing the organization.  

 The Position:

Home/Life Services is seeking a dynamic, experienced leader to become its Chief Operating Officer (COO). Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer, the COO will play a pivotal role in ensuring the efficient and effective operation of all shelter programs and services. The COO will oversee the daily operations, drive strategic initiatives, and lead a diverse team to achieve the organization’s mission. The COO will also be a key communicator within Home/Life Services, ensuring that policies and procedures are understood and consistently applied, and that Home/Life Services’ organizational values are reflected in all of its systems.

The COO will be a dynamic and enthusiastic individual who has a proven record of accomplishment of designing and implementing systems that support a complex organization as it grows. The COO should not only be able to solve challenges as they arise, but also to draw on their management experience to anticipate future challenges. They will have the personal presence and maturity required to effectively lead and manage a passionate and driven staff. The COO’s experience in change management will help Home/Life Services to build a cohesive leadership team and a broader culture that inspires employees to produce their best work and reinforce Home/Life Services’ commitment to equity. 

It is critical that the COO be capable of integrating smoothly into the senior management, fitting into the organization’s culture. They will provide counsel and support to the CEO, the leadership team, and the Board of Directors on operational matters, as well as work on various strategic initiatives. They will work with the executive, program, and finance staff in a supportive and direct manner. They will have strong interpersonal skills, excellent written and oral communication skills, a hands-on management style, as well as the ability to address and solve problems or issues as they arise. In addition, it is expected that they will be diplomatic, will operate with the highest integrity, and will possess sound judgment - as well as a sense of humor.

Specific Responsibilities include:

Leadership & Management:

·       Oversee the day-to-day operations of all shelter facilities, ensuring high standards of service delivery and compliance with regulatory requirements.

·       Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of directors and managers across various departments including shelter operations, shelter compliance, information technology, and human resources.

·       Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement throughout the organization.

Strategic Planning & Execution:

·       Collaborate with the CEO and executive team to develop and implement strategic plans that align with the organization’s mission and long-term goals.

·       Drive the expansion and improvement of shelter services, ensuring scalability and sustainability.

·       Identify and mitigate risks, ensuring the organization is well-prepared for future challenges and opportunities.

Operational Efficiency:

·       Implement best practices in operational management, optimizing resource allocation, and streamlining processes to enhance service delivery.

·       Ensure all shelters maintain a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment for clients and staff.

Financial Responsibilities:

·       In close collaboration with the CFO and Finance Team, oversee budget management and financial reporting, and ensure alignment with organizational goals and funder expectations.

·       Working closely with the entire HLS leadership team to identify new funding opportunities.

Stakeholder Engagement:

·       Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders including government agencies, vendors, community partners, and donors.

·       Represent the organization in public forums, advocating for policies and initiatives that support the needs of those experiencing homelessness.

·       Participate in development activities to secure funding and resources necessary for program sustainability and growth.

Qualifications

Education & Experience:

·       Bachelor’s degree in public administration, social work, business administration, or a related field; advanced degree preferred.

·       Minimum of 10 years of progressive leadership experience in a large, complex organization, with at least 5 years in a senior management role.

·       Experience in the nonprofit sector, particularly in organizations focused on homelessness, housing, or human services is highly desirable.

·       Experience engaging with the NYC government agencies (for example Department of Homeless Services, Human Resources Administration) at an administrative level, and/or experience managing government contracts, is preferred.

Skills & Competencies:

·       Proven ability to lead large teams and manage multi-site operations.

·       Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.

·       Strategic thinker with a record of accomplishment of developing and executing successful operational strategies.

·       Strong financial acumen, with experience in budgeting, financial reporting, and resource management.

Home/Life Services is committed to fostering an inclusive environment where staff feel valued and respected. They welcome and encourage applicants from all backgrounds to apply. Home/Life Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Home/Life Services does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, national origin, color, sex, age, gender identification, sexual orientation, veteran status, or disability. 

This is an outstanding opportunity for a highly motivated professional to assume a pivotal role in the evolution of a highly respected organization. Home/Life Services seeks an individual of outstanding quality with a respected record of accomplishment. 

Compensation & Benefits:

• Competitive salary range $200,000 to $250,000, commensurate with experience.
• Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance, retirement plan, and paid time off.
• Opportunity to make a significant impact in the lives of individuals and families experiencing homelessness.

To Apply:

Home/Life Services, Inc has retained the services of Harris Rand Lusk to conduct this search. Inquiries, nominations, and applications may be directed in confidence to:

Anne McCarthy, COO

Miriam Martinez, Senior Director

Harris Rand Lusk

260 Madison Avenue, 15th Floor

New York, NY  10016

amccarthy@harrisrand.com

Please put “HLS COO” in the subject line of your e-mailed application.