Mission-Driven COO: Strategic Operations Leader

The Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod; St. Louis (MO); On-site; USD 180,000 - 280,000; Full time

Job summary

The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod seeks a Chief Operating Officer to guide executive leadership across the corporate Synod’s operations, finance, legal, and administration. The role reports to the Board of Directors and partners with the President to advance strategic priorities and ensure accountability.

As COO, you will oversee planning, compliance, risk management, and multi-entity coordination, directing a sizable team and collaborating with universities, seminaries, and related boards to

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, finance, or related field.
• MBA, CPA, or other advanced designation preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead executive governance and operational strategy for business, financial, legal, and admin functions.
• Oversee budgeting, treasury, audit, and financial reporting.
• Ensure compliance with governing documents, policies, and regulatory standards.
• Build and lead a high-performing administrative team and champion organizational effectiveness.

Skills

Strategic thinking

Financial acumen

Operational excellence

Governance & compliance

Leadership

Analytical thinking

Communication

Integrity

Change management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in business/finance or related field

MBA or CPA preferred

Job description

The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod seeks a Chief Operating Officer to guide executive leadership across the corporate Synod’s operations, finance, legal, and administration. The role reports to the Board of Directors and partners with the President to advance strategic priorities and ensure accountability.

As COO, you will oversee planning, compliance, risk management, and multi-entity coordination, directing a sizable team and collaborating with universities, seminaries, and related boards to