Job Seekers

About Operation BBQ Relief (OBR)

Operation BBQ Relief is a national nonprofit organization that delivers the healing power of BBQ in times of crisis and need. Since its founding in 2011, the organization has served over 11 million meals to communities impacted by natural disasters, first responders on the front lines, and veterans and military families across the United States. What began as a grassroots response to a devastating tornado in Joplin, Missouri, has grown into a highly organized, mission-driven effort that combines compassion, comfort food, and a commitment to service.

 

With a dedicated team of volunteers, pitmasters, and staff, OBR brings comfort to those experiencing loss or hardship by preparing and distributing hot, delicious meals during moments when nourishment and hope are needed most. Beyond disaster response, the organization’s Always Serving Project provides year-round support through meal programs, educational workshops, and outreach that promotes mental health and well-being among veterans and the military community.

 

Operation BBQ Relief stands at the unique intersection of culinary excellence and humanitarian aid. Its ability to rapidly deploy teams, mobilize resources, and foster community engagement has earned national recognition and support from individuals, foundations, corporations, and civic leaders. Guided by values of service, passion, and integrity, OBR exemplifies the power of food to do more than feed; it can restore, unite, and heal.

 

Position Summary

Reporting to the Chief Executive Officer, the Chief Operating Officer (COO) will be responsible for overseeing the organization’s operational and programmatic functions. The COO will work closely with the CEO, senior leadership, and board of directors to design, implement, and refine processes that enable the organization to efficiently scale, deliver impact, and maintain financial sustainability. This is a pivotal leadership role within Operation BBQ Relief, ensuring operational excellence across all programs, services, and national relief efforts. The ideal candidate will have deep experience in nonprofit management, operational strategy, program delivery, and large-scale event coordination. This leader will balance a strong tactical orientation with strategic thinking and will be a trusted partner to the CEO in driving the organization’s growth and mission.

 

The COO position is remote, with the candidate of choice living in or relocating to one of the following states: Missouri, Kansas, Florida, Texas, Georgia, Tennessee, Mississippi, Indiana, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, or Virginia.

Position Duties and Responsibilities

Supervisory Responsibilities

• Integrate all aspects of the OBR WAY into day-to-day operations, mentoring, and developing OBR personnel on the OBR WAY.
• Lead both directly and indirectly across all departments to define and guide strategies and tactics to meet objectives and goals.
• Administer performance reviews according to company policy.
• Supervise day-to-day operation of the organization.
• Directly supervise Programs, Operations, Volunteers, Technology, MARCOMS, and Growth/Development.
• Implement CEO and C-Suite strategy.
• Handle discipline and termination of employees in accordance with company policy.

 

Strategic Leadership & Operational Oversight

• Partner with the CEO and senior leadership to develop and execute the organization’s strategic initiatives and long-term goals.
• Oversee day-to-day operations, ensuring alignment with the organization’s mission, values, and strategic priorities.
• Ensure the operational efficiency of all programs, from planning to execution, delivery, and evaluation.
• Drive continuous improvement in operational processes to enhance service delivery and organizational impact.
• Establish and maintain a strong and effective management team by mentoring, coaching, and developing leadership talent within the organization.

 

Program Management

• Lead and manage all programmatic efforts across the organization, ensuring they are on track, scalable, and meet the evolving needs of disaster-affected communities.
• Develop clear metrics for program success, ensuring programs are data-driven, outcomes-focused, and responsive to community needs.
• Collaborate with program directors to ensure effective resource allocation, risk management, and programmatic innovation.
• Establish systems for tracking and reporting on the effectiveness and outcomes of programs.

 

Financial Management & Budgeting

• Manage the organization’s operating budget in coordination with the CFO and leadership team, ensuring resource allocation aligns with strategic priorities.
• Establish and maintain the financial controls for operational and programmatic spending to maximize efficiency and minimize waste.
• Collaborate with fundraising and development teams to ensure adequate resources are in place for both programmatic and operational needs.
• Work with the finance team to monitor financial performance and address any financial challenges or opportunities.

 

Team Management & Leadership

• Lead, inspire, and retain a high-performing team of program managers, operations staff, and volunteers.
• Foster a collaborative and inclusive organizational culture where employees and volunteers feel supported, valued, and motivated to do their best work.
• Develop and implement training programs for both staff and volunteers to ensure operational success and high standards of service delivery.
• Ensure strong internal communication and alignment between teams and maximize impact and efficiency.

 

Risk Management & Compliance

• Ensure that all operational and programmatic efforts comply with federal, state, or local regulations, as well as industry best practices.
• Oversee risk management strategies for all aspects of the organization’s work, including logistics, transportation, and volunteer safety during disaster relief efforts.
• Ensure that the organization is properly insured and that appropriate measures are in place for any potential operational disruptions.

 

External Stakeholder Engagement

• Develop and maintain strong relationships with key external stakeholders, including partner organizations, government agencies, and donors.
• Represent OBR at key industry events, conferences, and speaking engagements, raising the profile of the organization and its work.
• Serve as a key partner in the development of national and regional disaster relief strategies.

 

Candidate Qualifications

Required

• Proven leadership experience with at least 5 years in a senior operational leadership role.
• Deep understanding of nonprofit program management and volunteer coordination.
• Experience managing annual operation budgets of $5 million or more.
• Strong track record of leading large-scale, mission-driven programs and operational efforts.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and motivate teams, manage conflict, and foster a collaborative and productive work environment.
• Experience in securing significant funding from a variety of stakeholders.
• Experience in risk management, operational compliance, and strategic planning.
• Outstanding communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• High EQ with empathy for those who are displaced in times of crisis.
• Ability to work under pressure in fast-paced, high-stakes environments.
• Travel as needed, expectation is about 25% but will vary based on unforeseen community crisis.
• Uncompromised integrity.

 

Preferred

• Experience in disaster relief or crisis management operations.
• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.
• Knowledge of fundraising, grant writing, and resource development strategies.
• Strong financial acumen with experience overseeing financial planning and budgeting processes.
• Ability to navigate complex stakeholder relationships and build coalitions across diverse groups.
• Knowledge of Microsoft’s Office Suite, Google Suite, internet browsers, web-based programs, and email.
• A passion for BBQ and community engagement is a plus!

 

Personal Attributes

• Visionary: Able to think strategically while managing day-to-day operations.
• Results-Oriented: Focused on achieving measurable outcomes and driving performance.
• Collaborative: Works effectively with teams and external partners to achieve common goals.
• Adaptable: Comfortable working in a dynamic and evolving environment.
• Passionate: Deep commitment to the mission of Operational BBQ Relief and a strong belief in the power of community and disaster relief.

 

POLICY ON PLACEMENT AND RECRUITING

The Batten Group and Operation BBQ Relief are equal-opportunity employers committed to the principles of non-discrimination in the workplace. Candidates will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, ethnicity, religion, color, sex, age, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, marital status, protected veteran status, or any other basis prohibited by federal, state, or local law.