Required Experience:
Key Competencies and Attributes:
· Inspires trust and confidence among stakeholders.
· Is an effective and transparent communicator.
· Demonstrates strategic thinking and flexibility.
· Fosters a positive and evolving board culture.
· Acts with the highest standards of integrity and ethical conduct.
· Reporting Relationships:
o The COO reports directly to the Foundation Board.
o The COO is accountable to the Foundation Board for performance and may also be evaluated by the University President or his designee.
o The COO has additional responsibilities to the VP Advancement and Executive Director of the Foundation.
Strategic Planning & Program Management
In coordination with the VP Advancement and Executive Director, drives execution of the Foundation’s strategic plan while ensuring it aligns with the University’s strategic plan.
Enables committees to evaluate and execute necessary actions as it relates to the strategic plan.
Establishes systems to track and report the impact of Foundation-supported initiatives.
Additional Responsibilities:
· Supports the Board in fulfilling its fiduciary and oversight responsibilities.
· Engages the Board in strategic planning and philanthropic leadership.
· Ensures alignment of Foundation activities with University priorities.
· Maintains compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, and policies.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree or CFRE preferred.
Minimum 3–7 years of progressive leadership experience in corporate, nonprofit, higher education, or philanthropic sectors.
Strong financial, operational, and communication skills.
Proven ability to work effectively with a board of directors/trustees and institutional stakeholders.
Familiarity with University Foundation governance, higher education advancement and Texas nonprofit law is a plus.
Recommended Benefits Package:
Stipend toward health insurance coverage
2 weeks Paid Time Off
Paid holidays in accordance with employee handbook.
Professional development and continuing education opportunities
How to Apply -
Submit your resume, cover letter, and three professional references by emailing to tarletonfoundation@tarleton.edu.
Posting will close January 31, 2026
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $125,000.00 - $150,000.00 per year
Work Location: In person
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Duties / Expectations:
Chief Operating Officer
Tarleton State University Foundation, Inc.
Stephenville, TX 76401
$125,000 - $150,000 a year - Full-time
Skills
Do you have experience in Stakeholder management?
Education
Do you have a Bachelor's degree?
Benefits
Paid time off
Paid holidays
Full job description
About the Foundation
The Tarleton State University Foundation, Inc. is a 501(c)3 organization established to support the mission and strategic goals of Tarleton State University by managing and growing private resources. With oversight of a rapidly expanding $60+ million fund, the Foundation serves as an independent and accountable steward of donor contributions. The Foundation operates in close coordination and alignment with Tarleton State University but maintains separate governance and fiduciary responsibility.
Position Summary
The Foundation COO serves as the Chief Operating Officer of the Foundation, inspiring trust among donors, University and Foundation colleagues, and the Board of Directors. The COO is responsible for strategic leadership, operational management, fundraising coordination, and serving as a key liaison between the Foundation and the University ensuring alignment with University strategic priorities.
Key Responsibilities
· Partner and Trusted Advisor: Acts as a close partner and advisor to the University President, Vice Presidents, and Deans, especially on fundraising matters.
· Strategist/Visionary: In consultation with the VP Advancement and Executive Director of the Foundation, leads the development and implementation of the Foundation’s long-term strategic plan in alignment with the University priorities.
· General Manager/Operator/Risk Manager: Oversees daily operations, ensures fiscal integrity, preserves and protects assets, and manages risk. Lead and review the accounting and financial reports including the development of processes, procedures and software upgrades as needed.
· Board Committee: Collaborates closely with committee chairs, fostering communication and engagement to ensure the effective execution of directives.
· Facilitator/Connector/Integrator: Builds and maintains relationships with key stakeholders, including donors, Board members, and University leaders.
· Philanthropic/Steward/Asset Manager: Provides stewardship of philanthropic contributions and oversees Foundation assets in coordination with board committees and third-party business partners.
· Coach/Teacher/Motivator: Fosters a positive board culture, builds effective teams, and motivates staff and volunteers.
· Advocate/Storyteller: Communicates the Foundation’s impact, value proposition and advocacy for the University’s mission and public purpose.
· Advises and develops grant writing initiatives. This includes non-profit, foundation, government and corporate entities.
· Creates communication best practices to current and potential donors and stakeholders.
· Builds relational capital with local and state community and industrial leaders.
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