Description
The Chief Operating Officer (COO) is a senior executive leader of Lexington Sporting Club, responsible for the day-to-day management and execution of the club’s business operations. Reporting directly to the President, the COO provides operational leadership across all non-sporting functions of the organization, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives, financial discipline, and organizational excellence.
As a trusted partner to the President and ownership group, the COO will translate vision into action—building the systems, teams, and culture required to support sustainable growth and long-term success. The ideal candidate is a proven operator with strong financial acumen, exceptional leadership skills, and a deep appreciation for the role professional sports organizations play within their communities.
Responsibilities
Financial Leadership & Oversight
- Lead all financial and accounting functions, including budgeting, forecasting, cash flow management, financial reporting, and internal controls.
- Ensure accurate, timely, and transparent financial reporting in compliance with accounting standards, league requirements, and regulatory obligations.
- Establish and enforce financial discipline across the organization, supporting data-driven decision-making and long-term financial sustainability.
Executive Operations & Organizational Management
- Oversee day-to-day business operations across Finance, Administration, Human Resources, Stadium Operations, Marketing, Ticketing, and Community Engagement, with clear financial accountability.
- Translate strategic priorities into operational and financial plans, ensuring effective execution and performance tracking.
- Develop efficient systems and controls that promote transparency, scalability, and operational excellence.
Strategic Planning & Growth
- Partner with Club leadership & ownership group on multi-year strategic and financial planning.
- Evaluate financial feasibility, risk exposure, and return on investment of major initiatives, including facility development, expansion efforts, and club-wide growth projects.
- Monitor industry trends and market conditions to inform strategic and financial decisions.
Partnerships, Contracts & Revenue Support
- Support the development of strategic partnerships, sponsorships, and vendor relationships, with oversight of financial structure and performance.
- Assist in the negotiation and management of major contracts and service agreements, ensuring alignment with financial objectives and risk tolerance.
- Represent the club with external partners and stakeholders on business and operational matters.
Stadium, Matchday & Facility Operations
- Provide executive oversight of matchday, event, and facility operations to ensure safe, efficient, and financially responsible execution.
- Ensure stadium, training, and youth facilities operate within approved budgets and performance standards.
- Coordinate with venue partners on logistics, security, concessions, ticketing systems, and fan experience initiatives.
Governance, Compliance & Risk Management
- Ensure compliance with all league, legal, regulatory, and financial reporting requirements, including USL standards and policies.
- Oversee financial governance, internal controls, and risk management practices to mitigate financial, legal, and reputational exposure.
- Partner with legal counsel and external advisors on audits, contracts, compliance matters, and risk mitigation strategies.
Leadership & Stakeholder Engagement
- Provide consistent, values-driven leadership that reflects the club’s mission, financial integrity, and community commitment.
- Build strong relationships with staff, league officials, sponsors, government partners, and community organizations.
- Represent Lexington Sporting Club at league functions, business meetings, and community events as needed.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in business administration, finance, sports management, or a related field; advanced degree preferred.
- Significant leadership experience in operations, finance, or executive management, preferably within professional sports, live events, entertainment, or a comparable industry.
- Demonstrated track record of operational excellence, organizational leadership, and process optimization.
- Strong financial management skills, including budgeting, forecasting, and data-driven performance analysis.
- Exceptional communication, relationship-building, and team leadership abilities.
- Strategic thinker with the ability to execute with discipline and clarity.
- Experience negotiating contracts, managing vendor relationships, and overseeing large budgets.
- Ability to thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment while maintaining a commitment to quality and integrity.
- Passion for community-driven sports organizations and alignment with the mission of Lexington Sporting Club.
Offered Benefits: High-Deductible health plan with HSA option, Dental and Vision plans, employer paid short term disability, long term disability and life insurance coverage, additional voluntary life insurance option. 401k with employer match. Facility use privileges, professional development support.
To support a safe and professional workplace, employment with Lexington Sporting Club is contingent upon the successful completion of a pre-employment background check.
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, gender identity, marital or veteran status, or any other protected class.
