DESCRIPTION

The Meliore Foundation is a leading organisation for philanthropy focused on funding global strategic communications. We’re a network that works with partners around the world to support programmes focused on informing fact-based awareness and debate. Our goal is to increase public understanding and encourage well-considered action in response to pressing global and local issues.
We are an ambitious, fast-evolving organization that partners with global networks to drive systemic change. As we grow and scale, we are seeking a Chief Operating Officer (COO) who will be a critical architect of our operational infrastructure and culture—helping us build the engine behind our mission.
The COO will serve as the Foundation’s integrator—leading the internal operations so that the organization can scale, innovate, and deliver on its mission with excellence. In partnership with the CEO and leadership team, the COO will ensure that all operational functions—Grants & Contracts, IT and our cross-functional Global Architecture/global infrastructure build projects—are cohesive, efficient, and designed to support programmatic success. This role will be responsible for taking strategic decisions with cross-network implications by working closely with leadership across the Meliore Foundation, in addition to working closely with our People & Culture Director, our CFO and our General Counsel.
The ideal candidate will be a mission-driven, pragmatic leader with deep experience building operational systems in dynamic, fast-paced environments. They will bring strong change management capabilities and a deep commitment to fostering a healthy, empowered, and accountable culture. The COO must thrive in complexity, lead with both strategic vision and operational rigor, and act as a true partner to the CEO in driving the Foundation’s growth and impact.
This is a role for a builder. A connector. A change agent. A stabilizing force.

LEADERSHIP & EXPERIENCE

• 15+ years of senior leadership experience, ideally with significant operational leadership in mission-driven or complex global organizations.
• Proven track record in scaling operations, leading change, and building high-performing, distributed teams.
• Experience managing complex global networks and driving operational alignment across diverse teams and functions.

SKILLS & CAPABILITIES

• Master integrator with excellent judgment, decisiveness, and the ability to pivot as needed.
• Exceptional communicator and relationship builder—able to inspire trust and alignment across diverse stakeholders.
• Strategic thinker with a builder’s mindset—willing to roll up sleeves when needed.
• Calm, clear-headed, and solutions-oriented in the face of complexity and change.

ABOUT MELIORE FOUNDATION (FUP)

A place to thrive!
We’re an international network that values genuine diversity. We know that tackling the climate emergency will need all of society and we want our network to be reflective of the richness of that society. We are looking for people who bring their best, most professional and effective selves to work. People who are respectful, kind and have a sense of fun. If that sounds like you, we’d love to hear from you.
Your ideas, perspectives, and lived experiences are key to how you go about your work. We encourage people from historically disadvantaged or underrepresented groups to apply.

• Ensure that the Foundation operates with the highest standards of governance, transparency, and ethical integrity in close collaboration with our General Counsel.
• Collaborate with our Director of Impact and Evaluation and CEO to implement systems for monitoring, evaluation, and reporting—providing insights that drive continual improvement.Champion a culture of accountability and excellence across all levels of the organization.