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The American Angus Association (Association) is seeking qualified applicants for a Chief Operating Officer (COO) in our St. Joseph, MO office. As a vital member of our leadership team, the COO will embody our core values of compassion, respect, trust, teamwork, innovation, and accountability while guiding the Association towards its goals.

Reporting to the CEO, the COO plays a vital role in delivering executive leadership for the American Angus Association. This includes establishing effective strategies and plans, administrative and operational procedures, and employee leadership to ensure organizational effectiveness and financial stability. The COO will oversee various departments, including performance programs, commercial programs, field and member services, communications and events and junior activities. This role is key to advancing our strategic initiatives, improving operational efficiency, improving technical capabilities, and enhancing member engagement and success.

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Provide visionary leadership to ensure the alignment of departmental goals with the association's mission and strategic objectives.
• Work closely with the CEO on designing and implementing business strategies, plans and procedures.
• Serve as a member of the Executive Leadership Team, providing high level leadership and strategic guidance.
• Oversee operational effectiveness and efficiency and the successful implementation of key strategies and tactics to advance the organizational objectives.
• Provide leadership and support to the department directors of performance programs, commercial programs, field and member services, communications and events and junior activities.
• Build relationships with members and industry partners.
• Streamline operations and ensure collaboration and efficient use of resources across all departments.
• Represent the Association at shows, industry events, conferences, and meetings, requiring approximately 30% travel.
• Other duties as assigned.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES:

• Extensive knowledge of the beef cattle industry. Expertise in genetics and the seedstock segment is a plus.
• Proven leadership skills, with an ability to support and motivate highly effective teams, lead change and drive innovation.
• Established track record in operational management, strategic planning and organizational leadership.
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills with experience presenting to large audiences.
• Excellent business acumen with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Strong emotional intelligence, deep listening and feedback skills, and the ability to thrive in a high trust culture.
• Excellent time management skills with the ability to organize, prioritize and execute multiple activities simultaneously.
• Familiarity with data management systems and technology relevant to agriculture and beef breed associations.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and other relevant software.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor's degree in Animal Science, Agriculture Economics, Agriculture Business, Agriculture Communications or a related field. Preference given to advanced degrees in Animal Science and Animal Breeding.
• Must have at least 10 years of related industry experience, at least five years in a senior management role.
• Industry work experience with a breed association or genetics company is a plus, but not required.
• Experience with non-profit or membership-based organizations is a plus, but not required.

Employees of the Association enjoy a strong benefits package including medical insurance, dental insurance, vision coverage, life and disability insurance and a 401K. Personal Time Off (PTO) is also included.

If you are interested, please submit a cover letter, resume, references, and salary requirements to careers@angus.org.