Chief Operating Officer

B.A.A. OVERVIEW

The Boston Athletic Association (B.A.A.) is a non-profit organization with a mission to promote a healthy lifestyle through sports, especially running. The B.A.A. is committed to a world where all people can access and benefit from running and an active lifestyle. The B.A.A. advances its mission and vision by organizing mass-participatory running events such as the Boston Marathon, creating or supporting community fitness events, and sponsoring a running club that serves the greater Boston area.

ABOUT THE ROLE

The Chief Operating Officer (COO) is a mission-focused, strategic, and process-minded leader who is core to the B.A.A.’s operations and impact. Serving on the Executive Team, the COO reports to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and helps design, implement and improve strategies that drive operational success. The COO leads and motivates a wide range of employees, fostering a positive, inclusive work environment in which business objectives are consistently achieved.

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Serve as a member of the organization’s Executive Team. Collaborate with the CEO and Executive Team members to develop and drive organizational vision and strategy.
  • Lead the B.A.A.’s operating efficiency, growth and overall strategy, managing internal operations and related results of the organization. Translate strategy into actionable steps and effective processes and procedures.
  • Manage Leadership Team meetings and ensure successful collaboration between the Executive and Leadership Teams, and organization as a whole.
  • Maintain a close, effective working relationship with the B.A.A. Board of Governors and Board Chair. Present and participate in Board meetings and events, as requested.
  • Ensure compliance with local, national and international business regulations and take appropriate action when necessary.
  • Manage the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Head of Human Resources, working together to ensure a cohesive administrative staff.
  • Partner with the CFO and leadership to produce an effective Annual Operating Plan and Budget. Manage operational and assigned department budgets successfully.
  • Maintain continuous lines of communication with the CEO, always keeping them well informed. Serve as a representative of the B.A.A., and on behalf of the CEO, as appropriate.
  • Motivate, lead and direct the activities of a high-performing team, inclusive of internal operations, administration, Athlete Services, Pro Athletes, Finance and HR. Empower the CFO and Head of HR – along with other directors and managers - to successfully lead their teams.
  • Supervise the Pro and Para Athlete programs, supporting program excellence and growth.
  • Oversee effective partnerships with Abbot World Marathon Majors, World Athletics, World Para Athletics, AIU, WADA, USADA, MTFOA, and USATF.
  • Serve as an advocate and leader for the B.A.A. as a whole.
  • Champion inclusion and belonging, modeling core values and cultivating an environment of fairness and inclusivity in every aspect of work.

WHO WE'RE LOOKING FOR

There are innumerable ways to learn, grow and excel professionally. We know people gain skills through a variety of professional, personal, educational, and volunteer experiences. We respect this when we review applications and take a broad look at the experience of each applicant. We want to get to know you and the unique strengths you will bring to the work. This said, we are most likely to be interested in your candidacy if you can demonstrate the majority of the qualifications and experiences listed below.

  • 10 or more years of relevant work experience (e.g., business or association management); demonstrated outcomes in a Chief Operating Officer or comparable leadership position preferred.
    • Experience in endurance sports / sports industry a plus.
  • Bachelor’s degree in business or related field, or equivalent experience/certifications. Master’s degree in business administration a plus.
  • Demonstrated business acumen and leadership, with an understanding of sports-related environments and administration (e.g., organizing committees, federations).
  • Ability to lead, plan, and manage change.
  • Proven track record in strategy development and implementation.
  • Strong organizational and time-management skills.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Exceptional interpersonal and relationship-building skills. Able to influence and negotiate in a wide variety of settings.
  • Ability to motivate, organize, and respond to employees of many different areas of expertise and backgrounds.
  • Experience leading and coaching teams to success.
  • Ability to solve problems, expertly navigate conflict, and effectively manage and respond to high-intensity situations.
  • Confidence and proficiency in presenting information clearly and effectively to various audiences.
  • An orientation toward customer service and teamwork with the belief that the best work gets done through collaborative and inclusive environments.
  • Proficient in Microsoft 365 tools, including Outlook, Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
    • Experience with Salesforce beneficial.
  • Willingness to work non-traditional hours, including weekends and evenings.

WORK EXPECTATIONS AT THE B.A.A. 

We are a hands-on team and seek employees who are passionate about our work and service to our community. The Chief Operating Officer role is a 40 hours/week, exempt position. The role will require working some weekends and evenings. There will be longer work hours surrounding events. Limited local and domestic travel required.

This role is based at our Boston office with in person work required throughout the year and as aligned with B.A.A. hybrid work guidelines.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

The salary range is competitive and commensurate with lived and professional experience. The B.A.A. will promote your professional growth and development by providing access to:

  • Competitive health & dental insurance plans
  • Life insurance, short term, and long-term disability plans funded 100% by the B.A.A.
  • 401(k) matching dollar-for-dollar up to 4% after one year of service, elective deferrals may begin upon hire
  • An annual allotment of professional development funding (up to $2,000 per calendar year)
  • Paid vacation based on years of service
  • 11 paid holidays, 9 scheduled and 2 floating

HOW TO APPLY

To apply to this position, please prepare a resume and cover letter to the attention of the B.A.A. Human Resources team and submit your materials to Opportunities opportunities@baa.org.

The B.A.A. is an equal opportunity employer and does not unlawfully discriminate against employees or applicants for employment on the basis of an individual’s race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status or any other status protected by applicable law.