Chief Operating Officer

Job Summary:

The Chief Operating Officer (COO) provides executive oversight and management of the operational, financial, and human resource functions for St. Louis Catholic Church and School. This role is vital in supporting the mission to unite God's people in the sacraments, steward His generosity, and evangelize the community. The COO ensures that parish and school operations reflect this mission through prudent financial management, effective oversight of facilities, and collaborative leadership with staff and ministry leaders.

The COO works closely with the Pastor, Principal, Executive Director of Mission, and advisory councils to manage resources efficiently, develop and monitor budgets, and foster operational excellence. Additionally, the COO oversees key ministries, including the Food Pantry, Engagement and Worship Office, and Early Childhood Development Center, requiring close coordination with the Executive Director of Mission to ensure seamless execution and alignment with the parish mission. This position requires an individual with a strong sense of stewardship, leadership, and a pastoral approach to working with others.

Ministerial Character

The Pastor is the visible principle and foundation of unity in the parish (St. Louis Catholic Church and School – Austin, Texas) which the Bishop has entrusted to him. He makes Christ's mission present and enduring in the parish. In order to fulfill his mission, the Pastor employs suitable, chosen collaborators (clerics, religious, or lay people). He shares with them his mission and entrusts various responsibilities to them.

Positions employed at St. Louis Catholic Church and School – Austin, Texas help to extend the ministry of the Pastor in particular ways as outlined in the job description. Therefore, the employee in this position is closely connected to and assists the Pastor in the performance of his ministry and thereby engages in ministry for the Church.

Essential Job Duties:

Financial Management

• Oversee the combined parish and school budgets, totaling over $6 million annually, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and financial sustainability.
• Collaborate with the Principal and School Advisory Board to develop and monitor the school budget (~$3M).
• Lead the development and oversight of the parish budget (~$3M) in collaboration with the Parish Finance Council and Pastor.
• Provide financial oversight of payroll, accounts payable/receivable, weekly collections, and reporting processes.
• Prepare and present financial reports to the Pastor, Principal, Parish Finance Council, and School Advisory Board for informed decision-making.
• Ensure compliance with diocesan requirements by collaborating with the Diocese of Austin's Finance, HR, and Legal departments.

Human Resources

• Oversee all HR functions, including hiring, onboarding, performance management, and terminations, in compliance with diocesan policies.
• Maintain and update Employee and Operations manuals to reflect current guidelines and best practices.
• Foster a mission-driven workplace culture that encourages professional growth and accountability.

Ministry Oversight

• Manage the Food Pantry, Engagement and Worship Office, and Early Childhood Development Center, ensuring effective operations and mission alignment.
• Provide direct supervision to department managers and directors, fostering collaboration and accountability.
• Coordinate closely with the Executive Director of Mission to support the strategic and operational goals of these ministries.

Facilities Management

• Provide oversight of the Director of Facilities for the maintenance and management of 12 buildings and 20 acres of parish and school property.
• Collaborate with the Pastor on capital improvement projects and facility use policies.
• Ensure compliance with city regulations, permits, and property-related requirements.

Operational Leadership

• Assist the Principal with operational, financial, and HR matters to support the school's mission and goals.
• Provide oversight for the Technology Director, ensuring accountability while maintaining their direct reporting relationship to the Principal.
• Serve as a key member of the Executive Team, advising the Pastor on operational strategies to support the parish mission.

Policy and Compliance

• Develop and implement internal controls to safeguard resources and ensure operational integrity.
• Ensure compliance with diocesan and legal requirements, collaborating with diocesan departments as necessary.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Strong commitment to the Catholic faith and a pastoral approach to leadership.
• Knowledge of the teachings and structure of the Roman Catholic Church.
• Experience in financial management, including budgeting and forecasting.
• Effective leadership and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate with clergy, staff, and advisory councils.
• Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office and other administrative tools.
• Ability to organize and prioritize multiple responsibilities effectively.