XPRIZE OverviewXPRIZE is an established global leader in designing and executing large-scale competitions to solve humanity’s greatest challenges. As a 501(c)3, our unique model democratizes innovation by incentivizing crowd-sourced, scientifically viable solutions to create a more equitable and abundant future for all. Since our founding in 1994, we’ve launched $519 million in prize competitions that are driving more than $31 billion in social and economic impact — a 60x return on philanthropic investment. These competitions not only de-risk early-stage breakthrough ideas but also mobilize capital, talent, and momentum to accelerate solutions from concept to real-world scale.We operate across 5 areas of impact, including:Deep Technology + ExplorationEnergy + Climate + NatureFood + Water + WasteHealthLearning + SocietyJoin XPRIZE to help create meaningful impact as we strive to empower humanity to achieve breakthroughs and architect a more equitable and abundant future for all.Position DescriptionThe Chief Operating Officer (COO) is a core member of XPRIZE’s executive leadership team and a strategic partner to the CEO. This role exists to ensure that XPRIZE’s internal operating systems, infrastructure, and governance are strong, scalable, and mission‑aligned, enabling the organization to deliver bold, audacious prizes at global scale.The COO oversees XPRIZE’s enterprise operations, including Finance, People & Culture (Human Resources), and Legal/Business Affairs, ensuring that these functions operate as integrated enablers of impact rather than isolated support teams. The COO brings rigor, clarity, and accountability to how XPRIZE runs, while protecting the creativity, experimentation, and entrepreneurial spirit that define the organization.This is a builder‑leader role suited for an executive who thrives in complexity, can scale systems without bureaucracy, and knows how to balance innovation with operational discipline.Reporting & ScopeReports directly to the CEOServes as a peer to Domain Leaders and other executive leadersOversees senior leaders responsible for People & Culture (Human Resources), Finance, and Legal/Business AffairsActs as a key liaison to the Board and relevant committees (e.g., Audit, Finance, Risk)ResponsibilitiesEnterprise Operations LeadershipOwn the design, integration, and continuous improvement of XPRIZE’s operating model across Finance, Legal and Human ResourcesEnsure systems, policies, and processes scale effectively as XPRIZE grows in size, complexity, and global reachEstablish clear decision rights, accountability, and performance expectations across operational functionsEnsure clear and efficient cross functional alignment across the organization Translate strategy into executable operating plans, metrics, and rhythmsFinance & Business OperationsProvide executive oversight of financial strategy, planning, and performancePartner with Finance leadership on budgeting, forecasting, cash‑flow management, and long‑range financial modeling, monthly and quarterly reporting for the board, sponsors, and internal programs..Ensure strong internal controls, audit readiness, and compliance with nonprofit and regulatory requirementsSupport the CEO and Board with clear, decision‑ready financial insightsOversee enterprise performance metrics and dashboards, insight driven reporting tied to organizational prioritiesPeople & Culture (HR)Oversee the People & Culture function to ensure XPRIZE attracts, develops, and retains world‑class talentEnsure compensation, performance management, talent development, and succession planning are aligned with strategyChampion a high‑performance, values‑driven culture with clear expectations and accountabilityEnsure compliance with employment laws and best practices across jurisdictionsServe as a thought partner to the CEO and executive team on organizational design, leadership effectiveness, and culture evolutionLegal, Risk & GovernanceOversee legal and business affairs, including contracts, leases, intellectual property considerations, and regulatory complianceEnsure appropriate risk management practices, insurance coverage, and vendor oversightPartner with external counsel as needed while maintaining internal discipline and efficiencySupport Board operations, governance processes, and committee work in partnership with the CEOStrategic Planning & ExecutionPartner with the CEO and executive team to shape and operationalize XPRIZE’s strategic prioritiesBuild systems for tracking execution, progress, and organizational healthEnsure cross‑functional alignment and remove operational friction that slows impactLeadership & Organizational EffectivenessLead, coach, and develop senior operational leadersBuild a culture of ownership, clarity, and continuous improvementAct as a stabilizing force during periods of rapid growth, change, or ambiguityModel calm, decisive leadership and strong judgment under pressureKey Outcomes & Measures of SuccessScalable, integrated operational systems that support growth without bureaucracyClear financial visibility, discipline, and sustainabilityHigh trust and effectiveness across the HR, Finance, and Legal functionsStrong leadership bench and organizational clarityPositive feedback from the CEO, executive team, and Board on operational effectivenessIdeal Candidate ProfileExperience & Background15+ years of progressive senior leadership experience, including enterprise operations oversightDemonstrated experience scaling organizations (nonprofit, for‑profit, or hybrid environments)Direct experience overseeing Finance, HR, and Legal/Business Affairs functionsStrong financial acumen; experience with budgeting, forecasting, and organizational metricsPrior experience working with Boards and Board committeesMBA or equivalent advanced degree preferred; CPA or similar credential a plusLeadership AttributesSystems thinker who sees how people, process, and technology fit togetherComfortable operating in ambiguity while driving clarity and executionHigh integrity, sound judgment, and strong executive presenceAbility to balance discipline with creativity and speedCollaborative, direct, and trusted partner to the CEO and executive peersPersonal CharacteristicsMission‑driven and inspired by XPRIZE’s purposeCalm, steady leader with resilience and adaptabilityHighly organized with strong follow‑throughCurious, learning‑oriented, and open to new ways of workingCollaborative Leadership - Builds trust and alignment across diverse teams and stakeholders; fosters a culture of shared purposeTeam Building and Alignment - Creates and develops strong teams, unites them around a compelling vision and inspires high performanceDecisive and Action Oriented - Moves ideas into action with urgency while balancing thoughtful risk-takingComfort with Ambiguity - Navigates complexity and uncertainty with resilience, adaptability, and clarityEffective Communication - Communicates with professionalism and influence, tailoring style to audiences from engineers and scientists to global executives and lay peopleStrategic Planning and Execution - Aligns resources and priorities; sets clear goals and ensures accountabilityGlobal Mindset - Operates with cultural awareness and perspective; experienced and comfortable engaging with international partnersIntellectual Curiosity - Approaches challenges with curiosity, creativity, and a passion for continuous learningData-Driven Results Orientation - Establishes metrics, analyzes outcomes, and drives measurable impactSituational Agility - Adapts quickly to evolving circumstances, demonstrating judgment, diplomacy, and presenceTalent Developer - Builds, mentors, and sustains high-performing, engaged teamsWhy Work at XPRIZE:In addition to working for a mission-driven company that catalyzes industries, pushes innovation forward, and is creating an abundant and equitable future, we offer the following benefits:Remote-first environment (must live and work in the United States)Quarterly company-paid All-Hands meetings in Los Angeles for frequent in-person collaborationEmployee and dependent medical, dental, and vision optionsA 401(K) program with employer matchAmple paid time off, including vacation, floating holidays, sick days, and company-paid holidaysAn Employee Assistance Program for confidential, professional support with personal, family, or other challengesEmployee stipends/reimbursements for cell phone, internet, health & wellbeing, and learning & developmentGenerous Paid Parental Leave for all employees welcoming a new child to their familyOne meeting-free block per week and four focus weeks per year to ensure uninterrupted time for strategic projectsThe anticipated base salary for this position is $325,000 to $375,000 and may also qualify for an annual incentive. This role is eligible for our competitive pay package including base salary and bonus, extensive benefits package and generous paid time off including vacation, sick, and holidays. The actual base salary offered will depend on a variety of factors including the qualifications of the individual applicant, years of relevant experience for the role, level of education attained, and certifications and/or other licenses held. XPRIZE is a remote-first environment.The XPRIZE FOUNDATION is an equal opportunity employer and does not unlawfully discriminate in employment. Equal access to employment, services, and programs is available to all persons. Those applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application and/or interview process should notify a representative of the organization.

Chief Operating Officer (COO)

Emma

Responsibilities

Skills wanted:

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