Chief Operating Officer (Exec IX) at State of Maryland

Introduction

The Maryland Department of General Services (DGS) supports State and local government agencies, as well as local non-profit organizations and the citizens of Maryland, by providing facilities management, real estate and surplus property services, as well as security and law enforcement for State buildings. DGS is also responsible for a full spectrum of facilities engineering, design and construction services, almost $1 billion in annual contract administration, and overseeing the State procurement process. Here at DGS, we truly Do Great Service… Consider joining our team!

This is an Executive Service position and serves at the pleasure of the Appointing Authority (“at-will”).

GRADE: EPP 0006

LOCATION OF POSITION: Office of the Secretary, 301 W. Preston Street, Baltimore, MD 21201

Main Purpose of Job

The Maryland Department of General Services is looking to hire a talented and experienced leader on our executive leadership team to fill the role of Chief Operating Officer (COO). The COO is responsible for driving operational excellence across all divisions and functions within the agency. The COO plays a critical role in ensuring that the agency’s operations are aligned with its strategic goals, enabling DGS to deliver on its mission to provide essential support services and facilities management to State agencies, thereby enhancing the quality of life for Maryland’s citizens.

The COO will work closely with DGS’ Secretary, Deputy Secretary, and other senior leaders to develop and implement strategies that optimize the agency’s performance, enhance service delivery, and ensure that all operations meet the highest standards of efficiency, transparency, and accountability. The primary focus of this role is on the unique, long-term challenges facing the agency and the long-term view of management priorities. Reporting directly to the Secretary of DGS, the Chief Operating Officer will be directly responsible for overseeing the directors of Human Resources, Fiscal Services, Emergency Management, Life Safety, and Performance Management.

POSITION DUTIES

Key Responsibilities:

1. Strategic Leadership: Partner with the Secretary, Deputy Secretary, and executive leadership team to develop and execute the agency’s long-term strategic plan. Participate in strategic planning processes to set organizational priorities and direction. Translate strategic objectives into actionable operational plans, ensuring that all divisions and functions are aligned with the agency’s mission and goals. Lead the implementation of initiatives that drive operational improvements, cost efficiencies, and enhanced service delivery. Establish performance metrics and evaluation systems to assess the impact and effectiveness of programs and operations. Make data-driven decisions and recommendations for continuous improvement and growth. Inform the Secretary and Deputy Secretary of targets, goals, and/or recommended transformations, and advise on how they can be achieved.
2. Operational Excellence: Oversee the day-to-day operations of the agency, ensuring that all activities are conducted efficiently, effectively, and in compliance with State regulations. Establish and maintain robust operational systems and processes that support the agency’s service delivery and performance goals. Promote a culture of continuous improvement across the organization, encouraging innovation and the adoption of best practices. Develop and implement operational strategies in alignment with the organization's mission, vision, and goals. Provide leadership and direction to department heads and staff to ensure efficient operations across the agency. Monitor and evaluate operational performance against key metrics and benchmarks.
3. Performance Management: Lead the development and implementation of performance management systems that monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of the agency’s operations. Set performance targets and key performance indicators (KPIs) for the agency, ensuring that all divisions are held accountable for achieving their objectives. Regularly review performance data, identifying areas for improvement and implementing corrective actions as needed.
4. Financial Stewardship: Work closely with the Chief Financial Officer to oversee the agency’s budget, ensuring that resources are allocated efficiently and that financial performance meets or exceeds expectations. Implement strategies to optimize the agency’s financial resources, including cost-saving initiatives and revenue enhancement opportunities. Ensure that all financial activities are conducted in accordance with State regulations and best practices.

DESIRED OR PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Preferred/Desired Qualifications:

1. Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, or a related field; Master’s degree preferred.
2. At least 10 years of experience in a senior or executive operational leadership role, preferably within the public sector or a large, complex organization.
3. Proven track record of managing large-scale operations, leading cross-functional teams, and driving organizational change.
4. Strong understanding of government operations, financial management, risk management, and compliance.
5. Excellent strategic thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
6. Exceptional written/verbal communication and interpersonal skills for interacting with executive and senior leadership, agency management, staff, and government officials, and for coordinating across multiple agencies and stakeholders.

BENEFITS

The State of Maryland offers a generous benefits package that includes:

1. Tuition reimbursement for those who qualify.
2. Flexible work schedules and telework opportunities for many positions.
3. Free mass transit in Baltimore & Annapolis.
4. Generous paid leave that increases with years of service.
5. Paid holidays.
6. Health coverage with low out-of-pocket costs.
7. Employee & employer contributory pension plan.

Click on the link below for more information: STATE OF MARYLAND BENEFITS

FURTHER INSTRUCTIONS

TO APPLY: Interested applicants should e-mail a resume and cover letter to dgs.resumes@maryland.gov – include “Chief Operating Officer” in the subject line of the e-mail. For questions, call our HR Office at 410-767-4985. For more information about DGS, please visit: DGS Website. DGS is an Equal Opportunity Employer.