Chief Operating Officer

Studio in a School Association (Studio) is seeking a strategic, experienced, and collaborative leader with a passion for arts education to join our team as the Chief Operating Officer (COO). This newly created position is a key member of Studio’s Leadership Team and will oversee multiple operational functions including Finance, Human Resources, IT, Facilities, and Compliance.

The COO will drive organizational effectiveness and sustainability by translating strategy into action, leading structural and cultural shifts, and embedding efficient, mission-aligned processes across the organization. As a connector and collaborator across departments and programs, the COO will also support and lead strategic initiatives that enhance Studio’s impact and growth. This is an ideal opportunity for a strategic and dynamic leader to make a meaningful impact on both the daily operations and long-term vision of New York City’s premier visual arts education organization.

This is a full-time, exempt, and non-union position reporting to the President of Studio in a School Association, with oversight of the operations team.

About Studio in a School

Studio in a School Association fosters the creative and intellectual development of young people through quality visual arts programs, directed by professional artists. The organization also collaborates with and develops the ability of those who provide or support arts programming and creative development for young people both in and outside of schools.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Collaborate with the President and the leadership team to execute strategic priorities. Provide counsel to the President and the leadership team through transitions such as structural changes and financial constraints.
• Translate Studio’s mission and goals into actionable strategies that drive operational excellence and long-term sustainability.
• Proactively identify challenges and implement effective solutions through strong analytical skills and informed, strategic decision-making and problem-solving skills.
• Communicate effectively to the Board of Directors, staff, internal and external stakeholders through exceptional verbal and writing skills.

Operations Management

• Lead and advance cross-functional projects and initiatives that enhance Studio’s impact and operational capacity.
• Financial oversight: collaborate with Finance to develop, manage, and present budgets; conduct financial planning and forecasting and provide data-informed recommendations to support strategic decision-making and long-term planning.
• Ensure compliance with government contracts, funding requirements, and regulatory standards.
• Driving cultural transformation initiatives that promote staff engagement, accountability, and alignment with Studio’s mission.
• Implement technologies and service infrastructure that enhance program delivery.
• Oversee capital projects, procurement processes, and vendor management to ensure cost-effective and high-quality service delivered.

Desired Skills and Background

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field; master’s degree in Business Administration, Finance, Public Administration, or a related field preferred.
• 10+ years of experience within non-profit or government sectors.
• 5+ years of director or executive level experience overseeing and managing financial/operational functions, projects and/or teams.
• Experience in budgeting and financial management. Strong business acumen.
• Experience in multiple operational areas simultaneously and staff development.
• Experience in managing and supporting operations within a unionized environment.
• Knowledge of compliance and funding requirements for non-profit organizations.
• High proficiency in using Microsoft Suites.

Personal Qualities and Habits of Work

• Commitment to the mission of Studio in a School Association.
• Ability to collaborate within a team environment and interact with diverse staff members and populations.
• Strong problem-solving and strategic-thinking skills, ethical decision making and sound discretionary judgment.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work both independently and in a collaborative team environment. Adaptive and thoughtful in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent organizational skills, including the ability to set priorities and manage projects simultaneously, oversee and track work details and respond flexibly to changes.
• Strong work ethic with an appreciation for deadlines. Adherence to project plans and following through.
• Practiced in handling confidential information and appropriate use of discretion.

Location

We are currently working on a hybrid schedule. The COO will be asked to work 3-4 days per week in our office, though this schedule may shift and evolve.

Benefits

Generous paid time off, Medical/Dental/Vision/Life Insurance/Disability Insurance, Pre-tax Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) and Commuter Benefits, 403b Retirement Plan, Aflac supplemental benefits, and Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

Salary

The salary range is $170,000-$210,000. We welcome an open discussion with interested candidates about the full compensation package.

Generous paid time off, Medical/Dental/Vision/Life Insurance/Disability Insurance, Pre-tax Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) and Commuter Benefits, 403b Retirement Plan, Aflac supplemental benefits, and Employee Assistance Program (EAP)