Chief Operations and Program Officer

Meet Christian Legal Society

The Christian Legal Society (CLS) is a fellowship of Christians dedicated to serving Jesus Christ through the practice of law (Attorney Ministries), the defense of religious freedom and life (the Center for Law and Religious Freedom), by nurturing and encouraging Christian law students (Law Student Ministries), and provide Christian legal aid to the poor and needy (Christian Legal Aid).

About the Chief Operations and Program Officer

This Chief Operations & Program Officer (CPO) is responsible for the oversight of CLS programs including Attorney Ministries, Law Student Ministries, Christian Legal Aid and the Center for Law and Religious Freedom and the general operations of CLS. This oversight includes the supervision and support of the four Directors of these ministries in a manner that reflects the mission, vision and values of the organization, while working in collaboration with the CFO and Advancement Director. The success of this position will be demonstrated by the effective ministry of each program along with their collaboration together as a team to achieve the goals of CLS, and the effective operations of the ministry.

The position reports to the Chief Executive Officer of CLS. This person is a member of the Senior Leadership Team and collaborates closely with the other chief Officers to promote and support the mission, values and ministries of CLS.

The Chief Operations and Program Officer responsibilities include:

Ministry Leadership

• The CPO will lead and oversee operations of the four CLS ministries
• This will require a balance of overall Ministry Team leadership with the direct oversight of their assigned ministry and team members
• The CLS Strategic Plan will be a guidance tool for the CPO and Ministry Directors for goals and future plans.

Ministry Promotion

• The CPO will work with the CEO and Advancement Officer to help articulate the mission of CLS and represent this mission in meetings, conferences, donor development, written and verbal communications as requested.

Team Leadership and Development

• Work closely with the CEO and Administrative Officer to identify, recruit, onboard, and oversee the work of the Ministry Directors
•  Provide Team development in a support and regularly scheduled manger
• Oversee staff development for Ministry team members in collaboration with Human Resources

Ministry Director Supervision

• Orientation and training of Ministry Directors
• Regular and documented supervision of the Ministry Directors (including development plans)
•  Performance management including evaluations, performance improvement plans and peer supervision)

Administrative Oversight

• Collaborate with CEO and Ministry Directors on operational and hiring needs
• Collaborate with Administrative Officer/CFO, Advancement Officer, and Ministry Directors to plan and comply with the annual budget
• Collaborate with Administrative Officer/CFO, Advancement Officer to coordinate operations needs including but not limited to events, communications, office management, and other needs in the ministries.

What you bring

The following describes many of the characteristics of the ideal candidate for the Chief Operations and Program Officer:

Education and experience

• J.D. degree (required), preferably with a Bachelor’s Degree in business, management or related degree
• Five or more years experience in legal practice that includes successful management of other attorneys and/or ministries

Personal characteristics and qualifications

• Demonstrated ability to build and oversee a high performing team of passionate ministry leaders
• Prefer previous experience in a Christian ministry.
• Mature Christian faith. 
• Ability to work independently in planning and implementing processes
• Ability to articulate the scriptural basis of vocation and calling
• Excellent written and oral communication skills and relationship-building skills. 

What it’s like to live in Springfield, VA – Metro D.C.

Living in the Metro D.C. area offers a vibrant mix of urban excitement and suburban comfort. With diverse neighborhoods, excellent public transit, and abundant job opportunities, it’s a hub for culture, food, and career growth. The area is home to top schools, healthcare, and green spaces, making it ideal for families and professionals alike. You’ll also find a wealth of recreational activities, museums, and international cuisine. Overall, the Metro D.C. area provides a dynamic lifestyle with easy access to both work and play.