Chief Operating Officer

Description

ABOUT HMML
The Hill Museum & Manuscript Library (HMML) is a global organization dedicated to the preservation and sharing of manuscripts, archives, and other cultural heritage materials. Through advanced digitization techniques, HMML safeguards invaluable historical documents, ensuring their accessibility for future generations. Collaborating with international partners, HMML has created the world's largest collection of resources for the study of manuscript culture. Having photographed over 445,000 manuscripts across various regions, including Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia, HMML has partnered with over 800 libraries and numerous private archives worldwide to carry out their work. As a global leader in the preservation of the historical records and creative work of the past, HMML prioritizes working with countries and communities at risk of losing vulnerable collections due to conflict, political upheaval, or war. HMML also offers extensive resources for scholars, including the world's largest online collection of manuscript images and metadata. Its reference collections hold about 50,000 volumes on topics related to manuscripts, printed books, art, and liturgy. HMML's mission is to advance manuscript research and scholarly inquiry by providing resources that support the study of cultures, languages, and histories worldwide.

Originally a part of Saint John’s University (SJU), HMML became an independent nonprofit on July 1, 2023, to better focus on its growing global mission and collaborations. The separation has allowed HMML to develop its operational capacity and governance structure independently while maintaining strong ties to the university and abbey communities. This independence will enable HMML to expand its impact internationally while continuing to serve its local and regional partners. In its first year as an independent nonprofit, HMML leadership and the board have created a five-year strategic plan that is focused on sustainable growth and development. Read more in the 2024 Annual Report. 

THE POSITION
The Chief Operating Officer (COO) will provide strategic leadership and operational oversight to advance HMML's mission and goals. Reporting directly to the Executive Director, Dr. Columba Stewart, the COO will ensure the effective management of HMML's programs, partnerships, and internal operations. The COO will have five direct reports: Executive Assistant & Office Manager (also reports to the Executive Director), Director of Cataloging and Library Services, Director of Information Systems, Director of Advancement, and Director of Programming.

The COO will oversee the day-to-day operations of HMML, including Finance, Advancement, Information Systems, Cataloging, and Human Resources. In consultation with the Executive Director, the COO will implement the Strategic Plan, manage the budget, and ensure the care of digital and physical collections of images, manuscripts, books, and art. This includes supporting cataloging and online access efforts and overseeing HMML’s advancement and communications initiatives. Additionally, the COO will manage the business relationships between HMML and on-campus entities such as the College of Saint Benedict and Saint John’s University (CSB/SJU) as well as Saint John’s Abbey.

The ideal candidate will be a diplomatic leader who fosters a people-focused culture and builds strong relationships with staff in a hybrid work environment. They will have a passion for organizational design and the ability to inspire and galvanize teams, building morale while bringing fresh, innovative ideas to the table. As both a strategic and creative ideator and a hands-on doer, this leader will thrive in implementing actionable strategies. The COO will play a key role in fostering collaboration, ensuring effective communication, and driving organizational excellence while maintaining a focus on the mission and values of HMML.

Requirements

QUALIFICATIONS
The ideal candidate will possess most of the following qualifications:

• Commitment to Mission: A strong commitment to the mission, vision, and values of HMML and deep passion for operational excellence and efficiency.
• Experience: Minimum of 5 years in operations and administrative management, preferably in nonprofit, library, research, or academic organizations. Proven experience in fostering collaborative workplace cultures.
• Operational Leadership: Demonstrated ability to oversee and integrate complex operational functions, ensuring alignment with organizational goals. Proven success in managing cross-departmental teams, fostering collaboration, and driving performance through effective leadership in a mission-driven environment.
• Financial Management: Demonstrated success in budget creation and management, as well as financial planning and reporting.
• Sector Knowledge: Familiarity with the challenges faced by libraries, museums, and cultural institutions.
• Partnership Development: Proven ability to build and nurture relationships with diverse institutional partners.
• Fundraising: Experience managing or conducting successful fundraising initiatives is desirable.
• Skills: Excellent communication and project management skills, with the ability to lead cross-functional teams and influence diverse stakeholders. Strong understanding of digital technology for archival and research purposes.
• Education: Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree (e.g., MA or PhD in Humanities-related field) would be an advantage.
• Other Requirements: Discreet judgment, ability to handle sensitive matters confidentially, and willingness to travel occasionally.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS 
The salary range for this position is $115,000 to $125,000. HMML offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience, along with a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, dental, vision, retirement plans, and professional development opportunities. Additional benefits include access to campus facilities such as the Warner Palaestra (gym/pool) and cultural opportunities.

APPLICATION
HMML has retained Campbell & Company to conduct this search. The team for this project includes Sarah Beraki, Vice President, Alex Catuara, Senior Consultant. To be considered for this opportunity, please apply online using the link in this position guide or directly through our website.  

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
HMML is an equal opportunity employer, and as a cultural heritage institution, welcomes applicants from all religious and cultural backgrounds.

If you need reasonable accommodation during our application, hiring, or onboarding processes, please contact Alex Catuara at [email protected]. Upon hire, all reasonable accommodation requests are handled by the HMML team.