Chief Operating Officer

Chief Operating Officer

Utica, New York

JK Executive Strategies is proud to partner with a prominent Credit Union in search of a Chief Operating Officer to join its team! The COO is a pivotal senior executive position responsible for ensuring operational excellence, driving strategic initiatives, and leading high-performing teams. This individual will oversee the day-to-day operational functions of the credit union, including Deposit Operations, Loan Operations, Underwriting, and Facilities, ensuring alignment with the credit union’s mission to enhance the quality of life for employees, members, and the communities it serves.

As COO, you will collaborate closely with the CEO and Executive Management Team to craft and execute strategic plans, operational budgets, and project initiatives that align with the organization’s mission of improving the quality of life for employees, members, and the communities they serve. You'll lead and inspire a high-performing team, foster a culture of continuous improvement, and ensure that the operations meet the highest standards of excellence and innovation.

Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership:

• Collaborate with the CEO and Executive Management Team to design, implement, and refine the organization’s strategic plan and operational budget.
• Translate strategic objectives into actionable operational plans that foster sustainable growth and align with First Source’s culture and mission.
• Serve as a key thought partner in identifying opportunities for innovation and growth across the credit union.

Operational Excellence:

• Oversee and manage all operational departments, including Deposit Operations, Loan Operations, Underwriting, and Facilities, ensuring seamless daily operations.
• Evaluate and enhance operational strategies to optimize efficiency, productivity, and member satisfaction.
• Implement cutting-edge technologies, systems, and processes to streamline operations and elevate the employee and member experience.

Team Development and Leadership:

• Build, lead, and inspire a high-performing team by fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and professional development.
• Mentor and develop team members, identifying opportunities for skill enhancement and career growth.
• Promote diversity, equity, and inclusion within the operational team and broader organization.

Continuous Improvement and Innovation:

• Establish a culture of continuous improvement by monitoring industry trends, operational benchmarks, and emerging best practices.
• Drive innovation in products, services, and delivery channels to ensure First Source remains competitive and relevant in the market.
• Lead change management initiatives to support the successful adoption of new systems, processes, and organizational changes.

Policy and Compliance:

• Develop, implement, and maintain comprehensive operational policies, procedures, and controls to ensure regulatory compliance and mitigate risk.
• Monitor operational performance metrics and ensure adherence to credit union standards, regulatory requirements, and member expectations.

Community and Organizational Impact:

• Represent First Source in the community, participating in credit union events, industry conferences, and designated community engagements to promote the organization’s mission and values.
• Serve as an ambassador for the Credit Union by cultivating relationships with key stakeholders, members, and community partners

Requirements:

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Finance, or a related field required
• Minimum of 15 years of progressive leadership experience in the financial services industry, with at least 7 years in a senior leadership role.
• Experience in the financial services or credit union industry is highly desirable.

Skills and Competencies:

• Exceptional leadership and team management skills, with a proven ability to inspire and develop talent.
• Strategic thinker with a strong operational acumen and a track record of implementing successful process improvements.
• Strong data and analytical skills.
• Strong project management skills, with the ability to prioritize and execute multiple initiatives in a fast-paced environment.
• Superior interpersonal and communication skills, capable of building relationships with employees, members, and stakeholders at all levels.
• Knowledge of regulatory and compliance requirements within the financial services industry.

Other Requirements:

• Willingness to travel as needed to support organizational and community initiatives.
• Commitment to the First Source mission and values, with a passion for improving the lives of employees, members, and the community.

Salary Range

$150k to $225k

JK Executive Strategies is an Equal Opportunity Employer. It is the policy of JK Executive Strategies to provide equal opportunity in employment and conditions of employment to all individuals regardless of age, race, color, religious beliefs, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, sex, veteran or military status, disability, pregnancy-related condition, predisposing genetic characteristics, genetic information, marital status, familial status, prior arrest, domestic violence victim status, non-job related convictions, participation in lawful activities outside of our workplace, or any other status protected by law.