POSITION TITLE
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
PRIMARY LOCATION
CREATED FOR SOUTH LOS ANGELES
CRYSTAL STAIRS, INC.
about CRYSTAL STAIRS, INC.
Crystal Stairs, Inc. is the largest child development service provider and advocate for families and child care providers in South Los Angeles, dedicated to providing highquality, culturally centered early care and education programs. Founded in 1980 by Dr. Karen Hill-Scott and Dr. Alice Walker Duff to advance economic mobility, Crystal Stairs, Inc. promotes empowerment, self-sufficiency, and community support through child care assistance and referrals, 16 Head Start preschools, child care provider support and professional development, the African American Provider Network, and policy advocacy. With an operating budget of $400M and 600 staff members, Crystal Stairs, Inc. supports children and families on their journey to self-sufficiency.
The strong, vibrant community we are proud to be a part of includes the team at the office. As an employer of choice, we value a collaborative, collegial, and friendly work environment.
our mission
Crystal Stairs, Inc.’s mission is to improve the lives of families through child care services, research, and advocacy.
TEAMWORK diversity & Inclusion passion service
We are committed to building and sustaining a diverse workforce and culture. At Crystal Stairs, Inc., valuing differences means each staff member is appreciated for their own rich & unique background
We believe passion for our community and for our work is the fuel that drives us Join an organization with a longstanding mission and vision that can bring purpose, meaning, and fulfillment to your life.
Being of service to our community members is the cornerstone to great outcomes We let respect, integrity, and collaboration lead us as we work with Providers, Families and our Partners
what we do & WHO WE SERVE
Child Care Subsidy Programs
Assists low-income families in paying for child care services and managing career and family challenges as they transition from welfare to work. The Emergency Child Care Bridge Program helps foster families secure and pay for child care while transitioning to long-term child care funding.
Early Head Start and Head Start State
Preschool
Using a holistic approach and emphasizing parental involvement, this school readiness program is for children up to age five. Curriculum includes physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development, enriching children’s social and cognitive growth.
Resource & Referral Program
Helps all families, regardless of income, locate child care and provides resources such as nutrition education, healthcare, and child development. For providers, R&R offers professional development training, career coaching, CPR training and more.
Photos: Synthia James
what we do & WHO WE SERVE
Parent Support Services Program (PSSP)
Promotes family wellness by supporting caregivers with parenting workshops, safe spaces to speak, education and advocacy resources, and enhanced services to help caregivers achieve their life goals.
Community Voices
Develops parents, providers, and community members into advocates. Empowers advocates to use their voices to create systematic change in child care through civic engagement.
African American Provider Network (AAPN)
AAPN is a culturally-centered community of support for the advancement of Black ECE professionals, including an apprenticeship program, events, and peer-to-peer coaching.
Health Outreach Program
Helps families enroll or reenroll in free or low-cost insurance plans such as Medi-Cal and Covered California.
Position Overview
Crystal Stairs, Inc. is seeking a dynamic and experienced Chief Operating Officer (COO) to oversee and enhance the internal operations of the organization. Reporting directly to the CEO and working closely with a dedicated, hands-on C-suite, the COO will be responsible for optimizing the organization’s infrastructure to support its growth and impact. This role will focus on technology implementation, procurement, real estate management and acquisition, strategic operations, and scaling efficiencies to ensure that Crystal Stairs, Inc. remains a leader in child development services. The ideal candidate will be business-minded, mission-driven, and bring a wealth of nonprofit and/or corporate sector experience, with a strong understanding of managing government contracts and compliance requirements.
First Year GOALS & OBJECTIVES for the new hire
Organizational Strategy
Operational Efficiency
Effective Service Delivery
Compliance
Strategic Initiatives
Security & Risk Management
Goal Setting
Growth & Impact
Leadership Development
Systems Integration
Scaling Capacity
Deeply understand the operational systems, IT, programs, contracts, and facilities of Crystal Stairs, Inc. In partnership with the Executive Management Team, develop a plan to optimize current operations, systems, and infrastructure to support organizational growth and impact. Identify opportunities to build capacity and enhance cross-functional efficiencies across the organization. Working with the CEO, create a real estate strategy that supports the organization’s long-term vision.
roles & responsibilities
Operations & Infrastructure
Oversee and enhance the organization’s operational infrastructure to support efficiency, effectiveness, and longterm sustainability.
Develop and implement scalable operational strategies to improve workflow, organizational systems, and service delivery. Ensure compliance with government contracts and regulatory requirements, working closely with legal and compliance teams
Lead risk management initiatives to ensure safety, compliance, and operational excellence across all facilities.
Support strategic initiatives, working closely with the CEO and the Executive Management Team to align organizational growth and sustainability goals.
Real Estate & Facilities Management
Develop and execute a real estate strategy that aligns with the organization’s long-term vision, ensuring sustainable and costeffective facilities growth.
Oversee real estate management, including the leasing, acquisition, development, construction, and maintenance of properties that support the organization’s programs and expansion.
Negotiate and manage vendor contracts related to property management, leasing, and construction.
Ensure that facilities align with programmatic goals and are maintained at the highest standards.
Technology & Systems Optimization
Lead the adoption and implementation of technology solutions that improve organizational efficiency and effectiveness
Work with IT teams to ensure systems integration, cybersecurity, and data management best practices
Identify and implement digital tools that streamline service delivery, financial operations, and internal communications.
Oversee technology infrastructure to support efficient remote and inperson collaboration.
Strategic Planning & Organizational Growth
Serve as a thought partner to the CEO and Executive Management Team, contributing to the development and execution of long-term strategic initiatives.
Assess and enhance organizational capacity to meet the demands of growth, scaling best practices across multiple sites and departments.
Provide leadership on operational sustainability, financial efficiency, and programmatic alignment with the organization’s mission and goals
Leadership & Staff Development
Foster a culture of accountability, innovation, and excellence at Crystal Stairs, Inc.
Ensure alignment between leadership, management, and staff to execute strategic initiatives effectively.
Provide mentorship, training, and professional development opportunities for staff, ensuring a high-performing and mission-driven team.
Drive cross-functional collaboration between departments, promoting operational efficiencies and shared accountability.
Represent the organization, as needed, in external partnerships and industry discussions to drive innovation and policy influence.
qualifications
Minimum of ten (10) years of experience in senior operations leadership r large nonprofit organizations, corporate entities, or a combination of both Expertise in real estate management, including property acquisition, leasi development, and facilities oversight
Strong track record of implementing technology solutions and scaling op large, complex organizations.
Demonstrated experience in risk management, compliance, and contract management, with a preference for those experienced in government fun
A demonstrated, lived commitment to DEIB in management practices, pro development, and workplace culture
Strategic thinker with excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to tra into operational success.
Strong leadership and interpersonal skills, with experience managing cross-functional teams and working collaboratively in a high-performing C-suite environment.
Business-minded with a mission-driven approach, committed to social impact and the advancement of the organization’s work.
Bachelor’s degree in business administration, nonprofit management, real estate development, or a related field preferred; MBA or advanced degree a plus.
compensation & benefits
The salary range is $210,000 - $235,000 depending on experience. Crystal Stairs, Inc. offers a competitive benefits package that includes paid holiday, sick time, vacation, and a paid winter break between Christmas and New Years. Crystal Stairs, Inc. also provides medical, dental, vision, and life insurance, EAP, a flexible spending account (FSA), employee discounts, and retirement with an employer match including a 401k and a 457b plan
Crystal Stairs, Inc. is committed to building and sustaining a fully vaccinated, diverse workforce and culture. As part of this commitment, Crystal Stairs, Inc. provides equal opportunity in all of our employment practices, including selection, hiring, promotion, transfer, and compensation, to all qualified applicants and employees without regard to race, color, medical condition as defined by state law, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender, ethnic group identification, mental or physical disability, pregnancy, childbirth and related medical conditions, or any other legally protected status.
the ideal candidate
The ideal Chief Operating Officer for Crystal Stairs, Inc. is a mission-driven, hardworking leader who is deeply passionate about improving the lives of children and families. They thrive in fast-paced environments, bringing a relentless commitment to operational excellence and efficiency. With an understanding of the early care and education landscape, they are forward-thinking and strategic, ensuring that systems, infrastructure, and policies align with the organization’s long-term growth.
This leader balances high-level strategic planning with hands-on problem-solving. They excel in fostering collaboration across teams, ensuring organizational efficiency and sustainable growth. Their expertise in real estate management, IT integration, and government compliance makes them a strong steward of the organization’s resources. They are a relationship builder someone who leads with integrity, cultivates trust, and has a track record of commitment to socially impactful work.
CAREERTRACKleadingtoChiefOperatingOfficer
The likely career track for the Chief Operating Officer of Crystal Stairs, Inc involves a strong background in operations, real estate management, contracts, and strategic planning Successful candidates will likely have some experience in large nonprofit organizations and may also have experience in the corporate sector.
Professionals we may look for:
Chief Operating Officer
VP/Director of Operations
Executive Director
Director of Business Affairs
Envision Consulting has been retained by Crystal Stairs, Inc. to conduct the search for their incoming COO. We follow a comprehensive and structured approach that begins with a needs assessment to understand the organization's position and culture. We source candidates using various strategies, such as leveraging networks, industry-specific databases, and targeted research. Our evaluations are designed to assess qualifications, experience, cultural fit, and leadership potential.
After two stages of interviews with Envision, we work with the organization's search committee to select the individuals they wish to meet and then curate that interview experience We support the final selection process, including negotiation and offer formulation and offer onboarding support to ensure a smooth leadership transition To ensure candidate success, we offer clients a one-year guarantee and 10 hours of executive coaching in the first year of employment.
Crystal Stairs, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion or creed, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, age, veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status recognized by federal, state or local law with respect to employment opportunities.
search team for CrystaL sTAIRS
MATT KAMIN MANAGING PARTNER
MELISSA MONTOYA DIRECTOR OF SEARCH SERVICES
Envision Consulting is a minority-owned firm specializing in executive search, organizational strategy, merger exploration, and executive leadership transitions With offices in Denver, Lexington, New York, and Los Angeles, our partners and consultants are former executive leaders within nonprofit organizations who are truly inspired by our collective power to lift up the communities we serve Our broad spectrum of services helps increase revenues, expand awareness and strengthen service delivery to the clients who need us the most. Learn more at www.envisionnonprofit.com.
JES MCBRIDE SENIOR SEARCH CONSULTANT
CAROL NGUYEN SEARCH & STRATEGY ASSOCIATE
Are you a great fit for Crystal Stairs, Inc.’s next Chief Operating Officer?
We invite you to apply and share your experience with us!