Chief Operating Officer

Location: Stamford, CT Reports to: Chief Executive Officer Salary Range: $165,000 – $175,000, commensurate with experience Children’s Learning Centers of Fairfield County (CLC) has been Stamford’s leading early childhood education provider for more than 120 years, serving over 800 children annually. Through early learning, health, nutrition, and family support, CLC helps children build strong foundations for lifelong success. CLC’s work strengthens families, supports the workforce, and contributes to a more equitable community. We are a mission-driven organization committed to high-quality service, operational excellence, and continuous improvement. Position Overview The COO is responsible for leading and strengthening the operational infrastructure that enables CLC to deliver high-quality services across multiple sites. The COO oversees core operational functions, including Facilities, Information Technology, Human Resources, and Finance. This role directly supervises senior operational leaders, including the Director of Facilities, Director of Human Resources, Director of Information Technology, and Controller, and oversees the organization’s relationship with fractional financial partners. Working closely with the CEO and senior leadership team, the COO translates organizational strategy into effective systems, structures, and execution. As CLC prepares for significant capital investments, the COO will play a central role in overseeing facilities strategy and major capital projects in partnership with Facilities leadership and external partners. This is a highly visible, onsite leadership role requiring a hands‑on presence across CLC’s sites. Executive Leadership and Strategy Serve as a strategic partner to the CEO and active member of the executive leadership team Translate organizational vision into operational plans, systems, and execution Lead high-priority, cross‑functional initiatives that advance CLC’s strategic goals Lead organizational change efforts, ensuring clear communication and successful adoption Promote a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement Ensure operational decisions reflect the needs of children, families, and staff Operations Leadership Oversee multi‑site operations and ensure consistency and efficiency across locations Directly supervise and develop senior operational leaders Strengthen internal systems, workflows, and documentation Ensure strong coordination across departments and sites Identify operational risks and implement mitigation strategies Finance Leadership and Oversight Provide strategic oversight of the finance function in partnership with the Controller Manage relationships with fractional and external financial partners Ensure strong financial systems, controls, and reporting processes Align financial operations with organizational priorities and sustainability goals Human Resources Leadership Partner with the Director of Human Resources to oversee recruitment, onboarding, performance management, and staff development Ensure HR practices promote clarity, accountability, equity, and staff sustainability Support effective labor relations in a unionized environment Foster a culture of trust, transparency, and shared responsibility Facilities, IT, and Capital Projects Provide strategic oversight of facilities, IT, and administrative systems Oversee planning and execution of major capital projects Ensure capital projects align with organizational priorities and program needs Strengthen technology systems, data management, and cybersecurity practices External Partnerships and Risk Management Oversee organizational risk management, including insurance and compliance Manage relationships with insurance and benefits providers Represent CLC with external stakeholders as needed Qualifications And Experience Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred Significant senior‑level operational leadership experience in a complex, multi‑site organization Nonprofit or public‑sector experience strongly preferred Demonstrated success leading cross‑functional teams and managing complexity Proven experience leading organizational change and driving adoption Strong strategic thinking, project management, and execution skills Experience in a unionized environment preferred Exceptional interpersonal, communication, and leadership skills Comfort operating as a visible, onsite leader What Success Looks Like Clear, effective operational systems aligned with mission outcomes Strong, accountable, and well‑supported teams Successful execution of complex, cross‑functional initiatives and capital projects Reduced administrative burden and improved organizational efficiency A high‑functioning partnership between the COO and CEO Compensation and Benefits Salary range: $165,000 – $175,000, commensurate with experience. CLC offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and life insurance, 401(k) with employer match, generous paid time off, and professional development opportunities. CLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to diversity in the workplace. Successful completion of background check and drug screening is required as a condition of hire. To learn more about CLC, visit: www.clcfc.org #J-18808-Ljbffr