Chief Operating Officer

Lemuel Shattuck Hospital, part of the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH), is seeking a visionary Chief Operating Officer (COO) to play an essential role in shaping the strategic direction and operational excellence of the hospital. As a key member of the Leadership and Senior Management Teams, the COO leads the planning, implementation, and evaluation of hospital programs and ensures alignment with the organization’s mission and strategic goals. Collaborating closely with the Chief Nursing Officer (CNO), Chief Medical Officer (CMO), and other senior leaders, the COO drives operational efficiency, regulatory compliance, and quality standards while fostering a culture of safety and innovation. This leadership role requires a balance of strategic vision and hands-on management to oversee multiple priorities effectively.

As a critical partner to the Chief Executive Officer, the COO provides leadership across various departments and serves as a liaison to centralized functions such as Human Resources, IT Services, and campus vendor programs. This role demands a commitment to excellence in meeting The Joint Commission (TJC), Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), and DPH standards while spearheading initiatives to improve organizational processes and services. The COO is also entrusted to act as the Appointing Authority in the CEO’s absence, ensuring seamless operations and continuity of leadership. This is a dynamic opportunity for a seasoned professional dedicated to advancing hospital operations, driving impactful change, and supporting a mission-driven healthcare environment.

Duties and Responsibilities of the Chief Operating Officer (these duties are a general summary and not all inclusive):

• Provide leadership, direction, and supervision to assigned departments and divisions, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and strategic initiatives.
• Evaluate departmental performance, resource allocation, and utilization to establish and prioritize goals and activities.
• Oversee hospital-wide compliance with TJC, CMS, and DPH standards and regulations.
• Ensure continuous survey readiness through education, training, and adherence to external regulatory requirements.
• Collaborate with the CEO and senior leadership to maintain effective hospital operations with a focus on safety, quality, and data-driven decision-making.
• Act as the liaison to centralized functions, including Human Resources, IT Services, and vendor programs, ensuring alignment with hospital operations and regulatory standards.
• Develop and implement organizational and operational improvements to streamline processes and enhance service delivery.
• Support the design and execution of system reorganizations in collaboration with senior staff to meet current and future organizational needs.
• Provide guidance on program and service adjustments to address evolving requirements, including transitioning to the East Newton Pavilion building.
• Attend and lead relevant committees and workgroups, delegating functions as necessary to ensure smooth operations and project implementation.
• Act as the Appointing Authority in the absence of the CEO, ensuring continuity of leadership and decision-making.
• Monitor and manage the preparation and maintenance of hospital-wide operations to support compliance and regulatory excellence.

Preferred Qualifications for the Chief Operating Officer:

• Certifications in healthcare-related fields are highly desirable, such as Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality (CPHQ), Certified Specialist in Healthcare Accreditation (CSHA), or Certified Professional Medical Services Management (CPMSM).
• At least seven