This class is accountable for performing such duties as determined by the First Selectperson. The COO will plan, direct and oversee operations activities to ensure development and implementation of efficient operations and cost-effective systems to meet current and future needs of the Town. The COO shall translate high level strategy into actionable plans.
Guidelines for Job Class Use: In accordance with Article IX, Appointed Officers, § 9.14. of the Town Charter, the Chief Operating Officer shall be appointed by the First Selectperson, and shall report to the First Selectperson. The Chief Operating Officer shall have such qualifications established in accordance with the provisions of Section 9.1B of the Charter. The Chief Operating Officer may be removed without cause by the First Selectperson and shall serve until removal, retirement, or resignation. The Chief Operating Officer shall be an ex officio member, without vote, on the RTM. The COO may exercise direct supervisory authority over department heads and/or other personnel as assigned.
Examples of Essential Duties:
Leadership & Strategic Leadership
- Ensures that Town operations are appropriately structured, staffed, and managed to meet organizational objectives, while supplying expertise and guidance.
- Coordinates the development and implementation of annual departmental operating plans and evaluates operational performance.
- Provides leadership and direction to department heads, fostering a collaborative, professional, high-performance culture.
- Provides programs, guidance, and encouragement for staff development and succession planning.
- Supports the First Selectperson in developing and executing the Town’s mission, strategic direction, and long-range plans.
Financial & Budget Management
- Collaborates with the Chief Fiscal Officer to assist in the development long- and short-term financial plans aligned with Town priorities.
- Reviews the Town’s current and projected financial status with the Chief Fiscal Officer and other stakeholders on a regular basis.
Human Resources, Labor Relations & Organizational Development
- Collaborates with Human Resources in developing long- and short-term personnel plans supporting Town objectives
- Guides a workforce planning initiative and sets strategic direction for organizational structure.
- Provides input to Human Resources in the development of labor relations strategy and may participate in collective bargaining with unionized employees.
- Reviews staffing levels, personnel needs, and HR projections with the Director of Human Resources.
Policy, Legislative & Regulatory Management
- Assists the First Selectperson in drafting policy proposals; reviews and analyzes proposed legislation.
- Develops, recommends, and oversees administrative policies, procedures, and operational standards.
- Ensures compliance with federal, state, and local regulations across all assigned departments.
Operations & Service Delivery
- Leads process improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve service outcomes.
- Manages special projects and Town-wide initiatives at the direction of the First Selectperson.
- Monitors departmental progress toward goals and provides operational assistance and guidance.
Emergency Management & Risk Management
- Assists in developing and implementing the Town’s Emergency Management Plan.
- Identifies organizational risks and works with the Risk Manager to implement mitigation strategies to protect Town operations and assets.
- Supports preparedness, response, and recovery efforts in coordination with public safety and relevant agencies.
Intergovernmental, Community & External Relations
- Provides support and consultation to not-for-profit agencies whose services align with the Town’s mission.
- Represents the Town in professional meetings, community events, and intergovernmental forums.
- Serves as liaison to state and federal agencies, regional entities, and other municipalities.
Information Technology & Data Systems
- Contributes to the development of the Town’s information technology strategy.
- Promotes the use of data, technology, and performance metrics to improve decision-making and operational outcomes.
Reporting & Administrative Oversight
- Coordinates internal communication across departments to ensure alignment with Town goals and priorities.
- Ensures effective administrative processes and high-quality service standards across all Town functions.
- Manages preparation of the Annual Town Report and other required reports and documentation.
- Performs related duties as assigned or required
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
- Considerable knowledge of and ability to apply collaborative leadership and decision-making methods.
- Considerable knowledge of and ability to apply management principles and techniques.
- Considerable knowledge of and ability to apply principles and best practices of public administration with special references to governmental general management and financial practices. Considerable knowledge of and ability to apply relevant State and Federal laws, statutes and regulations, including statutes prohibiting discrimination & retaliation.
- Considerable knowledge of the basic laws, ordinances and regulations applicable to budget preparation, approval and administration.
- Considerable problem-solving and analytical skills.
- Excellent interpersonal, written and oral communication skills.
- Excellent analytical skills.
- Considerable ability to develop, communicate and implement systems wide policies and procedures.
- Ability to analyze and develop budget estimates, financial and statistical reports.
- Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with local, state and other officials, civic and business leaders, Board of Selectpersons members and the general public.
- Ability to utilize ERP systems for financial management.
- Ability to work with individuals from diverse backgrounds
Minimum Qualifications: Ten (10) years of professional experience in public administration in a combination of human resources/fiscal/administrative functions (e.g., accounting, accounts examining, affirmative action/EEO, budget management, facilities management, grants administration, information technology, talent management, payroll, purchasing, grants administration, etc.) Two (2) years of experience must have been in a managerial capacity in the municipal sector. College training may be substituted on the basis of fifteen (15) semester hours equaling one half (l/2) year of experience to a maximum of four (4) years for a Bachelor's degree. A Master’s degree in public administration, business administration, human resources management, labor relations, industrial/organizational psychology or closely related field or a law degree may be substituted for one (l) additional year. Incumbents in this class may be required to possess and retain a valid Motor Vehicle Operator’s License.
The Town of Fairfield is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Town will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourage both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the Town when necessary.
