Chief People & Operations Officer

Community Economic Defense Project • Denver, CO

1d • $192,000 - $192,000 • Hybrid

About The Position

As the Chief People and Operations Officer (CPOO), you will play a critical leadership role in aligning the organization’s people strategy with its operational functions to advance the mission and long-term impact of the organization. Reporting to the President and working closely with the senior executive leadership team, you will provide oversight of core organizational operations, shared services, and people functions.

The CPOO will ensure that day-to-day operations run smoothly and efficiently by setting operational priorities, monitoring organizational performance, strengthening internal processes, managing risk and compliance, and supporting sound administrative practices. At the same time, you will lead the organization’s people strategy. We want a leader that is excited to cultivate a strong, collaborative workplace culture and ensure that staff have the structures, support, and resources needed to perform at their best. This role is ideal for a leader who thrives at the intersection of strategy, operations, and impact.

Requirements

• At least 10 years of experience and a track record of leading efficient teams in HR and/or operations
• Experience leading a direct service organization and one with a complex array of programs in the non-profit sector
• Experience managing human resources function, including personnel, compensation, and recruiting
• Strong commitment to CEDP’s mission and core values
• Comfort with ambiguity in a fast-paced, all-hands-on-deck environment.
• Ability to work collaboratively with people of diverse personal and professional backgrounds with a focus on social and racial justice and equity.
• Demonstrate an ongoing commitment to CEDP’s Community Pledge and organizational values, and actively contribute to advancing the organization’s strategic goals through daily practice, decision-making, and collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee day-to-day organizational operations to ensure efficient, effective, and mission-aligned performance across departments.
• Partner with the President and executive leadership team to translate strategic priorities into operational plans, timelines, and measurable outcomes.
• Develop, implement, and continuously improve internal systems, policies, and processes that support operational efficiency and organizational growth.
• Monitor organizational performance by tracking key operational and people metrics, identifying opportunities for improvement, and implementing solutions.
• Oversee human resources functions including talent acquisition, onboarding, performance management, employee engagement, and professional development.
• Foster and model a positive and inclusive organizational culture that supports collaboration, accountability, and high performance across teams.
• Provide leadership and guidance to managers and department leads to strengthen leadership capacity, team effectiveness, and cross-functional coordination.
• Ensure compliance with employment laws, organizational policies, and relevant regulatory requirements while managing organizational risk.
• Oversee administrative functions such as internal operations, external vendor relationships, facilities management, and operational infrastructure.
• Identify and implement tools, technologies, and systems that streamline workflows and improve organizational effectiveness.
• Lead change management efforts during periods of organizational growth, transition, or new strategic initiatives.
• Strengthen communication and coordination across teams to ensure alignment and effective collaboration throughout the organization.
• Support leadership in workforce planning, succession planning, and long-term organizational capacity building.
• Evaluate and refine internal practices to ensure the organization remains agile, scalable, and positioned for long-term impact.

Benefits

• competitive pay
• flexible time off
• a benefits package (including medical, dental, vision)
• a 401 (k)
• a $1,000 per year hybrid employee salary adjustment
• Employees who utilize two languages or more at work are eligible for a $2,000 salary differential per year added to the salary grade listed above. Language assessment will be conducted by the organization as a requirement to receive the differential
• All employees are eligible for a technology stipend of $720 per year. Alternatively, they may opt out of the stipend and receive an organization-issued cell phone instead.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Executive
• Education Level: No Education Listed