Chief Operating Officer (COO)

Are you an experienced operations executive passionate about delivering outstanding guest experiences and overseeing complex organizational functions? StaffBuffalo is excited to partner on an incredible opportunity for a Chief Operating Officer (COO) with a leading cultural organization in Western New York. This full-time, in-person position offers a competitive salary of $105,000–$115,000 per year and the chance to play a pivotal role in shaping visitor engagement, facility operations, and long-term growth.

The Chief Operating Officer (COO) will report to senior leadership and will be a key member of the executive team, responsible for ensuring smooth daily operations across guest experience, facilities, and information technology services. This role will also support long-range planning, capital projects, and strategic initiatives that directly impact the growth and success of the organization. With a strong team in place and a dedicated community of staff and supporters, this is an exciting opportunity for a leader with hospitality, tourism, nonprofit, or facilities expertise who thrives in a collaborative, mission-driven environment.

This is a full-time, on-site role in Niagara Falls, NY.

Responsibilities:

• Lead and oversee guest experience, facilities, and IT operations, ensuring smooth and efficient daily functions.
• Maintain a high-quality visitor experience by setting and upholding strong customer service standards.
• Partner with department heads on staffing, budgets, and operational strategies aligned with the strategic plan.
• Supervise facilities operations, including maintenance, permits, contractor oversight, safety, and capital projects.
• Ensure compliance with safety, accreditation, and security standards across all operations.
• Collaborate with senior leadership to support long-range planning, new initiatives, and capital project development.
• Represent the organization with community partners, government agencies, and regulatory entities.
• Provide leadership, coaching, and development opportunities to department leaders and frontline managers.
• Support Board of Trustees presentations and strategic planning discussions.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Nonprofit Management, Hospitality/Tourism, Public Administration, or related field (advanced degree preferred).
• 10+ years of progressive leadership experience in operations, hospitality/tourism, or similar cultural organizations.
• Strong knowledge of facilities oversight, guest engagement, and operational safety standards.
• Experience managing multi-department teams, budgets, and capital projects.
• Confident communicator with strong presentation and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work evenings/weekends as needed and travel occasionally.
• Valid NYS driver’s license required.

Compensation & Benefits:

• $105,000–$115,000 per year, depending on experience
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan with employer match
• Generous PTO and paid holidays
• Professional development opportunities

The advertised pay range represents what we believe at the time of this job posting that our client would be willing to pay for this position. Only in special circumstances, where a candidate has education, training, or experience that far exceeds the requirements for the position, would we consider paying higher than the stated range.

First time working with a Recruiter? No problem! We make the process as smooth and straightforward as possible. Communication is key – to get started, all we need from you is an updated resume and some time to chat. Our team will get to know and your future career goals. Throughout the process, we will provide resume feedback, schedule and prepare you for interviews, provide client feedback, and coach you through the offer stage.

StaffBuffalo is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate in employment on account of race, color, religion, national origin, citizenship status, ancestry, age, sex (including sexual harassment), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, marital status, physical or mental disability, military status, or unfavorable discharge from military service.

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