Chief Administrative Officer

Reporting to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) is an integral member of the Leadership Team and partner to the CEO. The CAO oversees all administrative functions, including facilities, finance, human resources, and information technology, ensuring operational excellence and that the organization is setting a strong foundation for growth. The CAO leads key strategic initiatives to enhance sustainability and works effectively across teams to meet organizational goals. Essential Functions Leadership and Management: Facilities, Finance, Human Resources, and Information Technology (50%) Lead organization’s annual budgeting process in collaboration with the CEO and senior leadership, closely involving Board leadership and key committees. Through supervision of the Finance Team, ensure timeliness and accuracy in transaction entries, reporting to stakeholders, payroll, forecasting, account and investment management, and annual audit and Form 990 filing processes. Serve as the primary point of contact to the leadership of the Finance & Audit and Investment Committees. Promote a workplace culture that reflects The Cradle’s values and ensure the organization’s operations reflect our commitment to a collaborative, inclusive environment. Through supervision of the Director of Human Resources, ensure HR processes, systems, and policies help The Cradle recruit, grow, and retain an excellent, diverse workforce. Through supervision of the Director of Operations & Governance, ensure the stability, efficiency, and security of administrative and information technology systems. Conduct ongoing evaluation of all administrative and technology practices and policies to assess needs, find efficiencies, and help manage organizational risk. Strategic Initiatives (50%) In close collaboration with the CEO, lead long-term business planning and advise on strategy. Lead complex projects in multiple areas related to the future impact and sustainability of The Cradle. The following requirements are necessary to perform the essential functions of the job. Commitment to The Cradle’s vision, mission and values. Bachelor’s degree, with Master’s degree preferred in accounting/business/finance, public administration, or field related to The Cradle’s mission. Ten years of leadership experience in organizational leadership, finance, human resources, operations, and/or related work. Demonstrated success managing complex projects and helping bring about organizational change. Proven track record of strategic financial management, business strategy, planning; experience creating/managing/overseeing budgets. Experience operationalizing government grants (compliance, payments, budgeting, etc.) Excellent judgment and creative problem-solving skills; experience navigating complex issues and making difficult decisions, often in high-pressure situations. Clear written and verbal communicator, who not only knows the information, but also the right approach to ensuring it is fully understood. Entrepreneurial, collaborative team player who is adept at managing multiple projects and priorities simultaneously. Proven ability to foster a work environment where all team members feel valued. All staff are required to take a successful medical exam. In addition, a background check and/or finger printing are required to meet DCFS regulations. Direct reports . This position will have 3 direct reports from the following areas: human resources, finance, and operations and governance. Location We are located at 2049 Ridge Avenue in Evanston, Illinois. Regular hours are M-F, 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Hybrid office hours/Remote and Onsite: a minimum of 3 days per week onsite. Benefits We offer generous paid time off plans, which include paid holidays, vacation, personal, and sick time, along with a comprehensive benefits package, including healthcare, life insurance, flexible spending account, 403b retirement plan, flexible spending account, and employee assistance plan.

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