As the COO of our client, you will be responsible for overseeing the organization's operational excellence and administrative functions. Reporting directly to the CEO, you will lead the internal execution of initiatives and projects, allowing the CEO to focus on external partnerships and fundraising efforts. This role offers the opportunity to build a pioneering organization from the ground up, with the potential for a significant global impact. Your key responsibilities will include managing day-to-day operational activities, overseeing project timelines, financial oversight, resource coordination, fundraising support, legal coordination, and strategic contributions to refine organizational strategies. Additionally, you will support program coordination, funder coordination and reporting, and contribute to the development of materials for presentations and communication packages.In this role, you will be responsible for project management, ensuring key milestones are met and efficient processes are established for jury coordination, application review, and event planning. You will also manage budgeting, accounting, and financial reporting, as well as recruit and coordinate part-time hires, contractors, and volunteers to support operational goals. Additionally, you will collaborate with the CEO to identify funders, prepare materials, and drive fundraising efforts to secure philanthropic and sponsored partnerships. Your role will also involve infrastructure and legal coordination, including transitioning the initiative to a foundation if suitable, establishing legal entities if needed, managing contracts, and overseeing compliance requirements. Overall, as the COO, you will play a crucial role in the success and growth of our client, contributing to its mission of advancing fungal innovation and making a tangible global impact.