Executive COO — Strategic Operations & Guest Experience

Moss Interactive, LLC; Seattle, Northern (WA, KY); Hybrid; USD 180,000 - 250,000; Full time

Job summary

Seattle Aquarium is seeking a Chief Operating Officer to partner with the President & CEO to steer day-to-day operations, guest experience, staff wellbeing, facilities, technology, and financial stewardship. The role demands a high-impact leader who can translate strategy into action across a complex mission-driven organization.

The COO will drive regenerative and equity-centered practices, work with Tribes and local partners, and report to the executive team and board.

Qualifications

• What You Bring: Passion for the Aquarium’s mission and SALISH values.
• 10+ years of senior leadership experience in mission-driven organizations.
• Proven ability to lead through change and evolving priorities.
• Ability to translate strategy into operating plans and milestones.
• Strong financial acumen including budgeting and forecasting.
• Demonstrated ability to coach senior leaders and build trust.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder relationship skills.

Responsibilities

• Shape organizational goals aligned with mission and SALISH values.
• Translate priorities into operating plans, milestones, and accountability.
• Lead business reviews, report progress, and remove barriers.
• Ensure high-quality guest experience and staff wellbeing.
• Advance regenerative and equity-centered practices within the Aquarium.
• Oversee budgeting, revenue opportunities, and expenses.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Financial management

Stakeholder engagement

Communication

Change management

Data-driven decision making

Job description

Seattle Aquarium is seeking a Chief Operating Officer to partner with the President & CEO to steer day-to-day operations, guest experience, staff wellbeing, facilities, technology, and financial stewardship. The role demands a high-impact leader who can translate strategy into action across a complex mission-driven organization.

The COO will drive regenerative and equity-centered practices, work with Tribes and local partners, and report to the executive team and board.