Chief Operating Officer

Institute for Social and Environmental Transition (ISET) is an international, non-profit institute. Founded in 1997, ISET takes an innovative approach to improving the understanding and level of dialogue as civil society responds to climate, natural resource, and environmental challenges in a rapidly changing global context.

ISET has a core staff based in Boulder, Colorado, Vietnam and Thailand and a wider network of associates abroad.  In addition, we work closely on jointly coordinated programs with our sister organizations, ISET-Nepal and the newly formed ISET-Pakistan, along with other long-term locally grounded partner organizations in India, Nepal, Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia and Pakistan.

The Institute serves as a collaborative international framework enabling and linking research, guidance and implementation activities across the divides of culture, discipline and region to address common challenges.  We work closely with organizations that cross the spectrum from local NGOs to local and national governments and international scientific organizations such as the National Center for Atmospheric Research. 

Organizations that currently support aspects of our work include the American Red Cross, the Rockefeller Foundation, the UK Department for International Development and other international development organizations.

For more information on ISET’s mission, philosophy, programs and partners visit ISET.

Position Overview:

ISET is seeking candidates for the newly created position of Chief Operating Officer (COO).

The COO will lead the development of institutional capacities to enable ISET’s President, senior staff, associates and sister organizations to effectively develop and implement programs that fulfill the organization’s mission. The COO’s initial role will focus on the establishment and optimization of day-to-day operations of the organization and relationships with sister organizations and partners. 

The COO will also be instrumental in fundraising and resource development efforts. Working with the President and senior staff, the COO will assume a progressive leadership role, coordinating overall organizational strategy and program directions and project activities. All program leaders and associates will report to the COO.

The COO will report to the President and the position will be based in Boulder, Colorado. The COO position will, however, require substantial travel in order to maintain close relationships with regional offices, program partners and donors.

Responsibilities:

• Work with the President, Board of Directors and senior ISET staff to develop and implement ISET strategic and operational plans to provide for strong organizational growth.
• Oversee organizational workflow, including project deliverables and internal ISET activities, and monitor program performance. This includes ensuring all program leaders are fully informed of operational objectives and facilitate communication between programs.
• With support from treasurer, direct preparation of the annual budget and project budgets and ensure that the organization operates within budget guidelines. Responsible for developing and maintaining sound financial practices and overseeing legal compliance.
• Personnel management and establishment of human resource policies.
• In collaboration with President and senior staff, play an instrumental role in major fundraising and program development activities. Serve as a key contact for building relationships with donors and, in conjunction with administrative staff oversee narrative and financial reporting requirements.
• Work on the development and formal structuring of relationships with sister organizations, regional partners and associates to ensure sustainability and collective governance of these institutional relationships.

Qualifications:

• Experience working in a collaborative manner with senior staff and partners in a multi-cultural network-based organization. Strong preference given to individuals with regional experience in South or South-East Asia.
• At least 5 years senior management experience in an international organization that focuses on environmental and social issues.
• Successful experience in international and domestic fundraising. Familiarity with international donors, their programs and funding processes.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to set priorities.
• Excellent written and oral communication required
• A superb ability to translate ISET’s mission and philosophy into clear operational strategies and goals.
• Track record of successful work with a board of directors.
• Demonstrated experience in fostering and maintaining relationships, including with funders, program leaders and regional partners across cultures. Ability to mentor and guide junior staff.
• A demonstrated track record of work on climate, environment, urban and sustainable development issues.
• Strong entrepreneurial capabilities and the ability to foster innovation.
• Passion, excitement and motivation for the management, growth and mission of the organization.
• Ability to lead and plan for change and manage high-pressure situations.
• Strong negotiation skills.
• Advanced degree in a relevant field preferred.

To Apply:

Please send a resume and cover letter.  Only candidates selected for interview will be contacted.  Any inquires about this position should be sent by email.  We ask that you make no phone calls to ISET about this search.