What are the responsibilities and job description for the Chief Operating Officer (COO) position at Wakeman Boys & Girls Club?
Join Wakeman Boys & Girls Club as Our Chief Operating Officer – Make a Lasting Impact on Youth!
Are you a passionate leader ready to shape the future of young people? Wakeman Boys & Girls Club (WBGC), a premier nonprofit youth development organization in Fairfield County, is looking for a dynamic Chief Operating Officer (COO) to drive excellence in our programs and operations of growing organization that is deepening impact on community.
As COO, you’ll lead high-quality youth programming, oversee out-of-school operations, and ensure our club locations are safe, engaging spaces where kids and teens thrive. You’ll have the opportunity to build impactful community partnerships, mentor future leaders, and make a real difference in the lives of thousands of young people.
If you're a logistical expert with a heart for youth development and a talent for operational excellence, we want to hear from you! Join us in empowering the next generation to become FUTURE READY—apply today!
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee Youth Programming & Out of School Time Operations
- Ensure best practices in program development, implementation, and evaluation across all WBGC locations.
- Maintain compliance with all local, state, and national regulations and licensing requirements.
- Work with staff to enhance curriculum structure, and engagement in afterschool, summer camp, and other youth development programs.
- Support the integration of social-emotional learning, mentoring, and workforce readiness initiatives.
Leadership & Strategy
- Supervise executive directors to ensure operational excellence at all 5 club locations.
- Identify and address systemic challenges in youth programming and out of school time operations, implementing sustainable solutions.
- Work closely with the CEO and community stakeholders to align WBGC’s offerings with evolving community needs.
- Foster an organizational culture of a supportive, equitable environment and continuous improvement.
- Serve as a key member of the leadership team.
Financial & Operational Growth
- In collaboration with CEO, CFO & Unit Executives, oversee programmatic budgetary planning, ensuring financial sustainability and responsible expense management.
- Expand WBGC’s impact through membership growth, new site development, program expansion, and strategic partnerships.
- Explore opportunities for mergers and acquisitions to enhance WBGC’s reach and resources.
Safety & Compliance
- Ensure safety and risk management best practices are upheld in collaboration with the CEO and Director of Safety & Leadership Development.
- Working alongside the Director of Safety & Leadership Development ensure adherence to childcare licensing, health regulations, BGCA Membership & Safety requirements and WBGC policies to maintain a safe environment for youth, volunteers, and staff.
Collaboration & Community Engagement
- In collaboration with the CEO & ED’s, develop and strengthen partnerships with schools, local organizations, and government agencies to enhance youth programming and childcare services.
- Represent WBGC in the community and advocate for policies and initiatives that benefit children and families.
The ideal Candidate will have the following:
Education & Experience:
- Bachelor's degree in recreation, human services, education, business management, or related field.
- 8 years of professional experience in youth development, childcare operations, or nonprofit management, with at least 5 years in senior leadership.
- Strong knowledge of childcare & safety regulations, youth programming best practices, and operational management.
Leadership & Management Skills:
- Proven ability to develop, lead, and scale youth programs and childcare operations.
- Experience managing senior level teams- including executive directors, program managers, and frontline staff with proven measures of success.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to address organizational challenges and community needs.
Passion for Youth Development:
- A deep commitment to creating safe, engaging, and impactful programs for children and teens.
- The ability to build authentic relationships with youth, families, staff, and community partners.
- Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
- Bilingual skills are a plus.
Work Environment & Physical Requirements
- Ability to sit for extended periods, operate office equipment, and lift light objects (<20 lbs.).
- Flexible schedule, including occasional evenings and weekends.
- Comfortable engaging with diverse communities and working in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment.
Why Join WBGC?
- Make a lasting impact on youth and families in the community.
- Be part of a collaborative, mission-driven team.
- Enjoy professional growth opportunities in a leading youth development organization.
How to Apply
Please submit resume to: HR Coordinator: bhernandez@wakemanclub.org
ATTN: COO Search
Salary Range:
Competitive base salary range based on experience $100,000 - $120,000
Benefits:
We offer the full range of benefits including 100% employer paid medical, dental, vision; long-term disability, life insurance, 10% retirement contribution after eligibility period is met, generous PTO (paid time off) plan, 11 paid holidays, and discounts on programs.
Target Dates for the Search Process:
Resumes accepted through: April 11th
Preliminary interviews scheduled: April 14th -25th
Final interviews: April 28th -May 9th Selection made: mid May
Anticipated start: On or around July 7th
Wakeman Boys & Girls Club is an equal opportunity employer.
We celebrate diversity and are committed to fostering an inclusive environment.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $100,000.00 - $120,000.00 per year
Schedule:
- Day shift
Experience:
- Youth Development: 5 years (Required)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $100,000 - $120,000