POSITION OBJECTIVE:
As the most senior executive in the organization, the Chief Operating Officer (COO) provides strategic leadership, operational oversight, and organizational direction in alignment with the mission, vision, and values of the corporation. With the recent elimination of the Chief Executive Officer role, the COO will now assume expanded authority and responsibility for the overall performance of the organization, acting as the key decision-maker and visionary leader. This role ensures all departments are aligned and operating efficiently to meet business objectives, promote growth, and sustain long-term organizational health. The COO will cultivate a culture of collaboration, accountability, and innovation while building and nurturing relationships with tribal leadership, key stakeholders, business partners, and community partners. This is a high-impact role requiring a balance of strategic insight and operational execution.
QUALIFICATIONS
Required Skills and Knowledge:
- Master’s degree (MBA or similar) in Business Administration, Organizational Leadership, or a related field.
- 7–10 years of executive-level leadership experience, preferably as a COO or equivalent.
- Proven experience in leading cross-functional teams and managing diverse business units.
- Demonstrated success in financial oversight, strategic planning, and organizational development.
- Experience working in tribal enterprises, gaming operations, or community-owned businesses preferred.
- Must possess or obtain a Class 3 Gaming License.
- Deep understanding of operational efficiency, service delivery, and cultural relevance in tribal settings.
- Exceptional leadership, interpersonal, and communication skills.
- Knowledge of applicable laws, regulations, and best practices in compliance and governance.
Preferred Skills and Knowledge:
- Executive-level experience in tribal enterprises or organizations serving Native communities.
- Familiarity with tribal governance structures, sovereignty, and intergovernmental relations.
- Proven success overseeing or supporting construction projects, including budgeting, compliance, and operational integration.
- Strong understanding of multi-sector operations, such as retail, hospitality, or service-based enterprises.
- Experience with enterprise technology systems or operational improvement initiatives.
Physical Requirements:
Ability to bend, reach, push, pull, squat and lift up to 25 pounds.
- Ability to sit, stand, or walk for extended lengths of time.
- Manual and finger dexterity for operation of personal computer and routine paperwork.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF THE JOB:
- Provide visionary leadership and direction to the entire organization, ensuring alignment with the strategic plan and organizational values.
- Lead, mentor, and develop the executive leadership team to promote a high-performing, collaborative, and accountable organizational culture.
- Oversee daily operations of the enterprise, ensuring efficient systems, processes, and structures are in place to meet performance goals and service standards.
- Develop, implement, and monitor business strategies, policies, and goals to drive growth, sustainability, and profitability.
- Act as the primary liaison to the MCEC Board of Directors, providing regular updates and strategic recommendations.
- Partner closely with the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to oversee budgeting, forecasting, fiscal health, and financial risk management.
- Ensure regulatory compliance, risk mitigation, and ethical standards across all business units and departments.
- Lead strategic initiatives including capital improvements, business expansion, new ventures, and enterprise diversification.
- Champion a culture of service excellence, equity, and innovation, ensuring that guest experience and employee engagement remain top priorities.
- Represent the organization publicly with community, industry, and tribal partners; cultivate strategic partnerships to further organizational objectives.
- Provide executive oversight and strategic direction for key departments and business units, including Human Resources, Finance, Marketing, Nisqually Markets, Nisqually Construction, and Post & Print, to ensure alignment, collaboration, and high-performing, cross-functional operations.
- Use data and KPIs to make informed decisions, measure progress, and drive continuous improvement across all areas.
- Ensure succession planning and leadership development across the organization to sustain long-term success.
- Collaborate closely with the Board of Directors, providing regular operational updates, strategic recommendations, and performance reports to support informed decision-making.
- Ensure effective execution of strategic initiatives and directives set by the Board, aligning enterprise goals with organizational mission and values.
- Serve as a key organizational representative in high-level meetings, public engagements, and intergovernmental affairs.
- Lead organizational change efforts, driving innovation and continuous improvement in business operations and service delivery.
- Establish and maintain a strong system of accountability and performance metrics for departments and business units.
- Identify and mitigate operational risks across all areas of the enterprise, ensuring compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and policies.
- Support talent development initiatives, succession planning, and executive coaching to build a strong internal leadership pipeline.
- Champion diversity, equity, and inclusion in workplace culture, staffing practices, and service delivery.
- Monitor industry trends, economic developments, and community needs to inform long-term planning and competitive positioning.
- Oversee capital projects and major initiatives, including construction and infrastructure investments, in collaboration with relevant departments and contractors.
- Ensure transparent and timely communication across all levels of the organization, fostering trust, alignment, and employee engagement.
NATIVE AMERICAN HIRING PREFERENCE
PLEASE NOTE: Hiring for this position is subject to Native American preference requirements of Nisqually law pursuant to Title 42, of the Nisqually Tribal Code, Indian Preference and Tribal Employment Rights Ordinance..
Pay: From $190,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
- Tuition reimbursement
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
