Chief Operating Officer/ Director of Operations

Oyster Recovery Partnership
Oyster Recovery Partnership

Operations

Annapolis, MD, USA

USD 90k-100k / year

Posted on Jun 30, 2026
Position Title: Chief Operating OfficerReports to: Executive DirectorStatus: Full-Time, ExemptLocation: Annapolis, Maryland Position SummaryThe Chief Operating Officer (COO) serves as a key member of ORP's Senior Leadership Team and strategic partner to the Executive Director. The COO provides leadership for the organization’s internal operations, including human resources, administration, organizational systems, and business processes. As ORP continues to expand its restoration, fisheries, and aquaculture initiatives throughout the Chesapeake Bay, the COO will strengthen organizational capacity, improve operational effectiveness, and ensure that internal systems support long-term success. This role serves as the Executive Director’s primary partner for internal management and organizational development. This is a hands-on leadership role that combines strategic planning with day-to-day operational management in a growing, mission-driven organization. Primary ResponsibilitiesOrganizational Leadership- Serve as a strategic advisor and thought partner to the Executive Director- Lead implementation of organizational priorities through planning, coordination, and accountability systems- Foster collaboration and alignment across departments- Support organizational growth through effective management practices and performance metrics Operations & Administration- Lead operational systems, policies, and process improvement initiatives- Oversee office operations, administrative functions, vendor management, and organizational services- Monitor organizational risk, compliance, and internal controls- Coordinate cross-departmental planning and execution Management & Supervision- Directly supervise assigned operations and administrative staff- Build organizational capacity through leadership, delegation, coaching, and accountability- Promote collaboration, communication, and professional growth across the organization Human Resources & People Operations- Oversee recruitment, onboarding, employee relations, benefits administration, and HR compliance- Lead development of HR policies, performance management systems, and staff development initiatives- Foster a positive, inclusive, and high-performing workplace culture Financial & Organizational Planning- Partner with the Executive Director and Controller on budgeting, planning, and organizational reporting- Support resource allocation and operational planning- Identify opportunities to improve efficiency and organizational sustainability Technology & Systems Coordination- Coordinate technology planning and system improvements- Serve as liaison to IT service providers and technology vendors- Ensure technology resources effectively support organizational needs Qualifications- Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Environmental Studies, Organizational Leadership, or a related field required- Seven or more years of progressive leadership experience in environmental business management, operations, human resources, nonprofit management, or organizational leadership- Environmental, conservation, fisheries, or other mission-driven for profit or nonprofit experience preferred- Demonstrated success leading organizational systems and people- Experience with budgeting, planning, and resource management- Ability to lead cross-functional teams and organizational change- Strong communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills Compensation & Benefits- Salary range: $90,000 to $100,000, commensurate with experience- Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, short-term disability, and life insurance- Paid Time Off (PTO): 80–160 hours annually based on years of service- Ten paid holidays and two floating holidays annually- 401(k) retirement plan with employer matching up to 5%- Professional development and continuing education opportunities- Flexible work environment- Collaborative and mission-driven organizational culture How to ApplyThe position will remain open until filled. Please submit a cover letter and resume to: Ward Slacum, Executive Director, wslacum@oysterrecovery.org.