Chief Operating Officer
20 hours ago
New York
Job Description The salary range is based on several factors, including, but not limited to, overall experience, relevant experience, education level, certifications, applicable skills, and expertise. Hybrid: 4 days in office/1 day remote Join UP! We are lighting the path home, one person at a time. About Urban Pathways Since 1975, Urban Pathways has engaged New York City’s most vulnerable residents, people on the streets or in areas unfit for human habitation, “lighting the path home, one person at a time.” Urban Pathways is a catalyst for transformative change in the lives of unhoused adults, empowering them to discover their inherent strengths and abilities. We provide essential support and foster an environment where individuals can redefine their narratives and become their best selves. Job Summary Reporting to the CEO, the Chief Operating Officer (COO) is a senior leader responsible for the overall operational leadership, strategic execution, and performance management of the organization’s supportive housing, outreach, and social service programs. The COO ensures that programs are delivered with excellence, compliance, and measurable impact, while aligning operations with the organization’s mission, regulatory requirements, and strategic growth priorities. The COO is instrumental in ensuring that the organization not only operates efficiently but delivers life-changing services to individuals experiencing homelessness. The COO provides direct oversight of Programs, Client Wellness, Policy, Information Technology, and Facilities, and plays a critical role in strengthening relationships with governmental oversight agencies, ensuring fiscal integrity of program contracts, and driving internal capacity-building initiatives. The COO will be an active listener, provide high-quality customer service, and respond by exhibiting cross-cultural awareness with the ability to promote and contribute to an equitable and inclusive anti-racist organizational culture and environment. Key Responsibilities & Essential Functions Operational Leadership & Program Oversight • Provide executive oversight of all supportive housing programs, outreach initiatives, and social service delivery models., • Ensure high-quality, person-centered services grounded in best practices, including motivational interviewing, harm reduction, and trauma-informed care., • Monitor program performance through KPIs, outcomes, and data-driven decision-making., • Serve as a strategic partner to the CEO in advancing organizational growth, scalability, and sustainability., • Lead internal capacity-building efforts to strengthen infrastructure, staffing models, and service delivery systems., • Identify opportunities for program expansion, innovation, and continuous improvement., • Build and maintain strong relationships with oversight agencies, including but not limited to:, • Office of Mental Health (OMH), • Department of Homeless Services (DHS), • Human Resources Administration (HRA), • Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH), • Private Donors and Philanthropic Grantmakers, • Serve as a key liaison for audits, site visits, and contract compliance reviews., • Oversee fiscal operations related to program budgets, ensuring alignment with funding requirements and organizational goals., • Partner with the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) on:, • Budget development and monitoring, • Variance analysis and cost controls, • Financial forecasting and sustainability planning, • Ensure effective administration of government contracts, including compliance with funding guidelines and deliverables., • Work in close collaboration with Compliance, Human Resources, and General Counsel to:, • Ensure adherence to policies, procedures, and regulatory standards, • Oversee incident management and reporting protocols, • Mitigate organizational risk and ensure audit readiness, • Provide leadership oversight of clinical and case management services within supportive housing and homeless programs., • Ensure coordination of:, • Entitlements and benefits (SSI/SSD, public assistance, vouchers), • Housing placement and retention strategies, • Crisis intervention and stabilization services, • Oversee housing operations, ensuring compliance with:, • Tenant rights and fair housing regulations, • Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) requirements, • Lease enforcement and landlord-tenant responsibilities, • Manage processes related to:, • Rental collection and arrears mitigation, • Eviction prevention and housing court coordination, • Tenant engagement and conflict resolution, • Provide strategic oversight of IT systems to ensure:, • Data integrity and security, • System functionality (e.g., case management databases), • Support for operational efficiency and reporting, • Oversee Facilities to ensure:, • Safe, compliant, and well-maintained buildings, • Timely response to maintenance issues, • Supervise and develop senior leaders across Programs, IT, Policy and Facilities., • Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous learning., • Support leadership development, succession planning, and staff engagement initiatives. Qualifications, Education and Experience • Master’s degree required (Social Work, Public Administration, Public Health, Business Administration, or related field)., • Clinical licensure (e.g., LCSW) strongly preferred., • Minimum of 10–15 years of progressive leadership experience in social services, supportive housing, or related fields., • At least 5–7 years in a senior executive or operational leadership role., • Strategic and operational leadership., • Financial acumen and contract management., • Deep knowledge of homelessness systems and supportive housing models., • Regulatory and compliance expertise., • Strong relationship management with government agencies., • Clinical and programmatic oversight., • Crisis management and decision-making., • Equity-driven and trauma-informed leadership approach., • Computer skills and knowledge of Microsoft Office (e.g. Word, Outlook, etc.)., • Excellent communication, interpersonal, and crisis intervention skills., • Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team., • Commitment to maintaining confidentiality and upholding ethical standards in delivery service., • May be required to work a flexible schedule including weekends, holidays, and evenings., • Ability to sit, stand, walk, bend, stoop, push, pull, lift (up to 25 lbs.). Urban Pathways offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support the well-being and professional growth of our employees. These benefits include: • Healthcare Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision insurance plans to keep you and your family in good health., • Retirement Savings: A 403(b) plan and a 401(a) with employer annual contribution to help you plan for a secure financial future., • Paid Time Off: Generous paid time off, including vacation, holidays, and personal days., • Professional Development: Opportunities for continuous learning and professional development to enhance your skills and advance your career., • Flexible Work Arrangements: Work-life balance is important to us, and we offer flexible work arrangements to accommodate your needs., • Wellness Programs: Employee wellness programs, including fitness initiatives and mental health support., • Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential counseling and support services for personal or work-related issues., • Employee Recognition: Recognition programs to celebrate and reward outstanding contributions.