About The Role
The Insured Retirement Institute (IRI) is a mission-driven organization dedicated to championing retirement security for all Americans. We are seeking a dynamic and hands-on Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) to lead and elevate our internal operations. This is a unique opportunity for a seasoned leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment and excels at balancing operational execution and strategic leadership.
As CAO, you will oversee key functions including Human Resources, Finance, IT, Facilities, and overall administrative operations and work closely with the CEO and COO. You will play a central role in driving strategic initiatives, ensuring operational excellence, and maintaining compliance with regulatory, financial, and ethical standards. This role is both strategic and hands-on, requiring direct ownership of core administrative functions. If you're energized by environments where strategic influence meets hands-on leadership, this is your opportunity to make a lasting impact.
Key Responsibilities
Human Resources & Organizational Development
- Leads full-cycle HR operations: recruitment, onboarding, compensation, benefits, payroll, performance management, training, employee relations. relationships.
- Champions employee engagement, DEIB initiatives, and culture-building efforts.
- Ensures compliance with labor laws and internal policies.
- Manages HRIS and vendors.
Strategic Leadership
- Partners with senior leadership to align HR and operational priorities with organizational strategy.
- Leads organizational design, workforce planning, and succession planning.
- Serves as a thought partner on change management and transformation initiatives.
Operational Oversight
- Oversees Human Resources, Finance, IT, and Facilities.
- Streamlines internal systems and processes to enhance efficiency and scalability.
- Develops and maintains SOPs and monitor KPIs for operational effectiveness.
Financial Management
- Leads budget planning, forecasting, and reporting.
- Manages external accounting firm to ensure fiscal transparency and compliance.
- Identifies opportunities to optimize expenditures while maintaining quality.
Compliance, Technology Governance & Risk Management
- Ensures compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.
- Oversees IT strategy and vendor management.
- Serves as primary liaison for audits and regulatory reviews.
- Oversees crisis response and business continuity planning.
What You Bring
Education & Experience
- Bachelor's degree in Business Administration or related field (Master's preferred).
- 10+ years of senior leadership experience in operations, HR, finance, or administration.
- Experience in financial services or senior-level association leadership (C6/C7) highly desired.
Skills & Attributes
- Strategic thinker with strong problem-solving and decision-making skills.
- Excellent leadership, coaching, and team-building abilities.
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
- Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and HRIS/payroll systems (BambooHR preferred).
- Deep understanding of compliance, ethics, and data governance.
At IRI, you will be part of a collaborative and forward-thinking team that is dedicated to making a meaningful difference in the insured retirement industry. We offer competitive compensation, professional development opportunities, work-life balance, and a supportive work environment that values your contributions.
We welcome applications from experienced professionals ready to lead with purpose and precision. DC-area candidates are strongly preferred.
Equal Employment Opportunity Employer
The Insured Retirement Institute is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
Please note that IRI conducts background checks on all candidates.
Principals only.
