WPLN Chief Operating Officer

Women’s Public Leadership Network (WPLN) is a nonpartisan, 501(c)3 nonprofit that educates, organizes, and inspires center-right leaning women to seek public office at every level in every state. We are building a network of like-minded individuals and organizations across the country who support women becoming public leaders. We educate and organize through free, online programming and through our State Partners.  State Partners are our state-based organizations that identify, engage, and train women to run for elected office, obtain political appointments, and become more involved in the political process in their respective states.

We are nonpartisan but have an ideological leaning because center-right women are especially underrepresented and face different challenges to their counterparts on the left. Women who believe in commonsense, pragmatic public policy solutions are often missing in political and policy dialogue and we believe all viewpoints should be represented. Our trainings, grant-making, and marketing resources will be a helpful resource to level the playing field for ALL women to make their voice heard.

Women’s Public Leadership Network (WPLN) is looking for a Chief Operating Officer to play a critical role in driving the success and growth of WPLN. This role will report directly to the President and will work closely with other members of the WPLN team, external partners and stakeholders. This is a great opportunity for someone who is exceptional at operations management, problem-solving, strategic thinking and working under pressure while handling challenging situations with grace.

This is a full-time position, based in the Washington, DC area, with the option for remote work.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

Reporting directly to the President, the COO will be responsible for overseeing the organization's day-to-day operations, enhancing operational procedures, and ensuring alignment with WPLN’s strategic goals. This leadership role requires a dynamic, organized, and collaborative individual passionate about operational efficiency and impact-driven work.

• Operational Management: Oversee daily operations, including program delivery, administrative functions, and HR. Develop and implement operational policies and procedures to optimize productivity and efficiency.
  
  
•  Financial Oversight: Collaborate with the President and finance team to manage budgeting, financial planning, and expense management. Ensure financial practices align with nonprofit standards and maintain accountability.

• Strategic Planning and Execution: Work with leadership to set strategic objectives, identify growth opportunities, and drive projects forward. Ensure that long-term and short-term goals are aligned with the mission.

• Team Leadership and Development: Manage and mentor staff and volunteers, fostering a collaborative and inclusive work culture. Create opportunities for professional growth and ensure alignment with organizational values and goals.

• Program Management and Evaluation: Oversee the planning, implementation, and evaluation of programs to ensure they are meeting organizational objectives and quality standards. Develop performance metrics and use data to improve program outcomes.
  
  
• Stakeholder Engagement: Support the President in building relationships with partners, funders, and communities. Participate in presentations, meetings, and events to increase visibility and engagement.

• Risk and Compliance Management: Ensure the organization’s practices comply with legal regulations and risk management requirements. Maintain up-to-date policies in areas such as health and safety, HR, and program operations.

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS

• Bachelor’s degree; Master’s degree preferred
• 7+ years of experience in operations, ideally within the nonprofit sector, with at least 2 years in a leadership or management role
• Proven track record in managing budgets, financial planning, and resource allocation
• Strong organizational skills, with the ability to prioritize and handle multiple projects effectively
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate a diverse team and stakeholders
• Demonstrated experience with strategic planning and execution, particularly in a nonprofit or mission-driven organization
• Knowledge of nonprofit regulations, compliance, and best practices

Preferred Qualifications:

• Ideologically aligned with the organization’s values
• Experience with government and/or campaign work

BENEFITS

• Competitive salary
• Flexible vacation and leave policies
• Health insurance stipend
• Opportunities for professional development and career advancement

WPLN believes that each employee makes a significant contribution to our success; this position description is designed to outline primary duties, qualifications, and job scope, but does not limit the organization to adjust the work identified; it is our expectation that each team member will offer their services wherever and whenever necessary to ensure the success of our endeavors.

Interested candidates should submit their resume and a cover letter detailing their experience and why they are a good fit for this role to jobs@womenspublicleadership.net.

Women’s Public Leadership Network provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

Women’s Public Leadership Network is a 501(c)(3) nonpartisan nonprofit organization registered in the United States.