Chief Operating Officer

About the Organization and Role

The Native American Rights Fund (NARF), established 55 years ago and headquartered in Boulder, Colorado with additional offices in Washington, D.C. and Anchorage, Alaska, is a nonprofit legal organization dedicated to protecting Native American rights and resources through litigation and legal advocacy. With over 70 employees and governed by a board comprising Native American leaders from various Tribal Nations, NARF has helped defend critical rights related to Tribal sovereignty, treaty protections, natural resources, voting rights, and education for Native communities nationwide.

As NARF embarks on a new chapter following extensive growth—increasing its operating budget twofold and expanding staff by nearly 60% in five years—it is appointing its first Chief Operating Officer (COO). This role is pivotal in strengthening operational functions and infrastructure to support the organization's mission and strategic goals now and in the future.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and provide strategic leadership to departments including Finance & Accounting, Development, IT, Facilities, HR, and Communications.
• Enhance organizational alignment and operational effectiveness across all divisions.
• Develop and build the operational infrastructure and culture of excellence to sustain and propel the organization's growth.
• Collaborate closely with the Executive Director and senior leadership team in organizational strategy and execution.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor's degree is mandatory; an advanced degree in business, finance, law, or a related discipline is preferred.
• Experience engaging with Native American communities, Tribal governments, or native advocacy groups is highly desirable.
• Background in mission-driven organizations, public interest law firms, or nonprofit impact litigation entities would be advantageous.
• More than 10 years of relevant experience aligning with senior executive operations leadership is required.

Compensation and Benefits

The position carries a salary range of $268,000 to $307,000, reflecting Denver metro market standards and extensive experience levels. Benefits include comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance; paid leave including vacation, sick, parental, and medical/disability leave; 401(k) with employer contributions following one year; group life and accident insurance; as well as short- and long-term disability coverage.

Additional Information

NARF is committed to diversity and encourages candidates from varied backgrounds to apply, even if they do not precisely meet every qualification. Applications require a cover letter addressing NARF's mission and the stated responsibilities and qualifications, alongside a résumé. Reasonable accommodations are available through direct contact with the recruitment coordinator.