Chief Operating Officer

Position Title: Chief Operating Officer (COO)
Organization: Street Samaritans
Location: Chicago, IL
Reports to: Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Salary: $70,000 annually

About Street Samaritans:
Street Samaritans is a Chicago-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to breaking the cycles of homelessness and poverty through personalized interventions. We prioritize accessibility, dignity, and compassion in all our programs, striving for a future where no one in Chicago experiences homelessness. Learn more at streetsamaritans.org .

Position Summary:
The Chief Operating Officer (COO) is responsible for the internal operations and programmatic success of Street Samaritans. The COO will focus on ensuring efficient and impactful service delivery, managing operations, and developing systems to enhance program outcomes. Reporting directly to the CEO, the COO will align the organization's operations with its strategic objectives while fostering a culture of equity, innovation, and collaboration.

Key Responsibilities:

Program Development and Oversight:

• Lead the development and execution of all programs, ensuring alignment with Street Samaritans' mission and strategic goals.
• Oversee service delivery models, maintaining high standards of quality, effectiveness, and equity.
• Collaborate with the CEO to create scalable strategies to expand the organization's reach and impact.

Impact Measurement and Data Management:

• Design and implement a comprehensive data collection, evaluation, and reporting system to track program effectiveness.
• Utilize data insights to continuously improve services, ensuring programs are client-centered and outcomes-driven.
• Prepare regular impact reports for stakeholders, including the Board of Directors, funders, and community partners.

Human Resources:

• Lead day-to-day human resources operations, including staff recruitment, onboarding, and training, to ensure operational excellence.
• Support the CEO in developing and implementing HR policies and procedures, ensuring compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.
• Manage employee relations, serving as the primary point of contact for staff concerns, conflict resolution, and workplace issues.
• Coordinate ongoing professional development and training opportunities to build staff capacity and support career growth.
• Track and maintain personnel records, ensuring confidentiality and adherence to data security standards.
• Assist in fostering a culture of accountability and collaboration, ensuring alignment with organizational values and goals.
• Facilitate team-building activities and initiatives to strengthen employee engagement and morale.

Operational and Financial Management:

• Collaborate with the CEO to develop and manage program budgets, ensuring financial sustainability and resource efficiency.
• Optimize organizational workflows and operational systems to support seamless service delivery.
• Monitor compliance with relevant laws, regulations, and best practices, including data security and client confidentiality standards.
• The COO is authorized to approve expenses or checks up to $1,000 independently. Any expenses exceeding this amount require secondary approval from the CEO.

Community and Partnership Engagement:

• Build and maintain relationships with local organizations, government agencies, and other stakeholders to enhance service coordination and resource sharing.
• Represent Street Samaritans in public forums, advocating for systemic change and resource allocation to combat homelessness.
• Collaborate with partners to address gaps in services and ensure a holistic approach to client needs.

Strategic Planning and Collaboration:

• Work closely with the CEO to develop and implement long-term strategies that advance Street Samaritans' mission.
• Act as a key thought partner to the CEO, providing operational insights to support decision-making and organizational growth.
• Ensure alignment between programmatic goals and organizational priorities.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Nonprofit Management, Social Work, Business Administration, or a related field.
• At least 5 years of experience in nonprofit management, program development, or operational leadership.
• Proven expertise in impact measurement, data analysis, and program evaluation.
• Strong financial management skills, including budgeting and resource allocation.
• Demonstrated success in leading diverse teams and fostering a culture of collaboration.
• Ability to design and implement operational systems that support efficiency and scalability.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage with a wide range of stakeholders.
• Commitment to equity, inclusion, and social justice in all aspects of the role.
• Passion for Street Samaritans' mission and a deep understanding of homelessness and poverty issues.

Street Samaritans is a 501(c)3 grassroots nonprofit that provides direct support and resources for transition for Chicago’s Homeless population through human connection, technology and partnerships. Learn more at