The Head of Projects and Planning (HoPP) will play a critical role in supporting the COO of TCF in driving strategic initiatives, enhancing operational efficiency, and facilitating communication and coordination across the organization. As a key integrator, the HOPP will act as a nucleus in assisting the COO in managing the flow of information, monitoring key initiatives, and ensuring alignment across departments. The HoPP will serve as a key advisor to the COO, providing insight and feedback on critical business decisions. He/She will help streamline communication between the COO and other stakeholders, both internal and external. The HoPP will also lead or oversee various strategic projects that require cross-functional collaboration.

This multifaceted role requires a unique blend of skills, including leadership, strategic thinking, and excellent communication, and is ideal for a senior level professional with strong operational and project management capabilities who thrives in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment.

Coordinating Cross-Departmental Efforts

Coordinating cross-departmental efforts to ensure that various parts of the organization work together seamlessly towards common goals. This involves facilitating collaboration and communication between departments and aligning their activities with the strategic and annual plan. The HoPP must understand the unique functions and challenges of each department to effectively bridge gaps, foster cooperation, mediate conflicts and promote a culture of teamwork and mutual support.

Monitoring Organizational Performance and providing Strategic Planning Support

This involves tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) and other metrics and providing the COO with the necessary information and analysis to make informed decisions. The HoPP gathers and synthesizes data, assesses risks and opportunities, and presents recommendations that align with the organization’s strategic goals. Moreover, the HoPP will develop and assist other units in developing briefing documents to frame key decisions.

Stakeholder Management and Operating Rhythm

Assist the COO in managing key stakeholder relationships and maintaining organizational oversight through a dynamic operating rhythm. Organize and coordinate senior leadership forums, including agenda setting, note-taking, and follow-ups to ensure alignment and action.

Facilitating Communication

Ensure that information flows smoothly between the COO and various parts of the organization. This role acts as a central point of contact, responding to and relaying messages, clarifying directives, and providing updates to ensure everyone is on the same page. Additionally, the HoPP will craft internal communications, such as memos, reports, videos, and presentations on behalf of the COO.

Managing Special Projects

These projects are often high-priority initiatives that do not fall under the purview of any one department. This role is tasked with overseeing these projects from inception to pilot testing and scaling in collaboration with the relevant functions.

Representing the COO in Meetings

This involves attending meetings on behalf of the COO, ensuring that his perspective is communicated effectively. In addition to representing the COO, the HoPP is responsible for capturing key takeaways and action items from these meetings and follow up on behalf of COO until closure.

Managing the COO’s Schedule

This task goes beyond simply arranging meetings and appointments; it involves prioritizing the COO’s time to ensure that their focus remains on the most critical tasks and strategic initiatives. The HoPP must coordinate with various stakeholders to schedule meetings, calls, and events, balancing immediate demands with long-term goals. Effective schedule management also means anticipating potential conflicts and making adjustments as needed. The HoPP must be proactive in identifying opportunities for the COO to engage with key partners, attend important events, and take necessary downtime.

Skills:

• Strong organizational and project management skills to oversee multiple priorities simultaneously.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to navigate and manage organizational complexities and relationships.
• Proficiency in coordinating cross-functional teams to drive results.
• Data-driven mindset with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.

Attributes:

• Highly detail-oriented, with strong follow-through on commitments.
• Strong interpersonal skills to build relationships at all levels.
• A proactive, hands-on approach with a commitment to continuous improvement.
• Alignment with TCF’s mission of transforming lives through education.

Master’s degree preferred, ideally in business administration, management, or related fields.

7+ years of experience in business management, project management, or consulting roles. Experience in driving cross-functional initiatives and within the education space is preferred.