Job Description
New Horizons | Abilene & Brownwood, TX
Since 1971, New Horizons has been committed to Keeping Kids First by providing safe, therapeutic, and loving environments where children and families can heal, grow, and succeed. We serve children and adolescents impacted by abuse, neglect, and exploitation through our Child Placing Agency, Family Programs, and two Residential Treatment Programs: Audrey Grace House in Abilene and The Ranch near Brownwood.
We are seeking a mission-driven, strategic, and hands-on Chief Operating Officer (COO) to lead the operations of all programs and ensure excellence in care, compliance, and organizational performance. This executive leader works closely with Program Administrators and Directors to ensure services reflect our philosophy, meet the highest standards of safety and quality, and operate effectively across multiple sites.
This role requires a leader who can balance big-picture strategy with daily operational leadership while fostering a culture where safety, accountability, and child-centered care guide every decision.
What You’ll Do
Provide operational oversight of all New Horizons programs
Lead, support, and develop Program Administrators and Directors
Ensure compliance with state regulations, licensing standards, and internal policies
Oversee organization-wide quality improvement and performance management systems
Collaborate with the CFO to support budget planning, monitor financial performance, and ensure operational decisions align with the organization’s fiscal health
Strengthen systems, processes, and cross-program collaboration
Promote a culture of safety, accountability, and trauma-informed, child-centered care
Partner with executive leadership on strategy, growth, and financial sustainability
Support workforce planning, hiring, and leadership development efforts
Monitor program performance, risk trends, and corrective action efforts
Represent New Horizons with community, professional, and state partners
What We’re Looking For
Master’s degree in social work, psychology, or related human services field
5–7+ years of progressive leadership experience in child welfare, residential care, behavioral health, or related services
Licensed Child-Care Administrator in Texas (or ability to obtain)
Experience overseeing multi-program or multi-site operations preferred
Strong knowledge of trauma-informed care and child welfare regulations
Experience leading quality improvement initiatives using data
Exceptional leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills
Strong emotional intelligence, sound judgment, and commitment to child safety
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and data systems
Working Conditions
Work is performed in a combination of office, residential, and community-based environments across multiple program locations. Regular travel between Audrey Grace House in Abilene and The Ranch near Brownwood is required. The role may involve evening or weekend availability to respond to operational needs, critical incidents, or regulatory matters. The position requires frequent interaction with children and adolescents who have experienced trauma, as well as families, staff, and community partners. The environment may include emotionally sensitive situations, behavioral crises, and high-stress circumstances requiring calm, professional leadership. This role carries significant responsibility, involves independent decision-making, and includes representing the organization in community and professional settings.
Physical Requirements
The role requires the ability to sit, stand, and move throughout office and residential program environments for extended periods. Frequent walking within facilities and travel between sites is required. The position involves regular use of a computer and standard office equipment, as well as effective communication in person, virtually, and by phone. The individual must be able to respond promptly in emergency situations, which may require moving quickly within program environments. Occasional lifting of up to 20 pounds may be required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: $120,000 – $140,000 annually
Compensation is based on experience, education, and leadership background.
Why Join New Horizons?
At New Horizons, you become part of a mission-driven organization committed to protecting and empowering children. Our leadership team values expertise, encourages innovation, and ensures every voice is heard. We believe that when we care well for our team, they can care exceptionally for kids.
What You Get When You Work for New Horizons
A generous benefits package currently above industry standards including
Health Insurance
Paid Time Off starting on your first day
401(k) retirement match after 1 year of employment
Flexible Spending Account contribution after 2 years of employment
Paid work anniversary trips beginning at 5 years of service
The systems you build, the leaders you support, and the decisions you make here will directly shape the lives of children who need safety the most. If you’re ready to lead with purpose and keep kids first in every decision, we’d be honored to meet you.
To learn more about New Horizons and other positions that may be available please visit our website: https://www.newhorizonsinc.com/
9uwaw0Ko42
Since 1971, New Horizons has been committed to Keeping Kids First by providing safe, therapeutic, and loving environments where children and families can heal, grow, and succeed. We serve children and adolescents impacted by abuse, neglect, and exploitation through our Child Placing Agency, Family Programs, and two Residential Treatment Programs: Audrey Grace House in Abilene and The Ranch near Brownwood.
We are seeking a mission-driven, strategic, and hands-on Chief Operating Officer (COO) to lead the operations of all programs and ensure excellence in care, compliance, and organizational performance. This executive leader works closely with Program Administrators and Directors to ensure services reflect our philosophy, meet the highest standards of safety and quality, and operate effectively across multiple sites.
This role requires a leader who can balance big-picture strategy with daily operational leadership while fostering a culture where safety, accountability, and child-centered care guide every decision.
What You’ll Do
Provide operational oversight of all New Horizons programs
Lead, support, and develop Program Administrators and Directors
Ensure compliance with state regulations, licensing standards, and internal policies
Oversee organization-wide quality improvement and performance management systems
Collaborate with the CFO to support budget planning, monitor financial performance, and ensure operational decisions align with the organization’s fiscal health
Strengthen systems, processes, and cross-program collaboration
Promote a culture of safety, accountability, and trauma-informed, child-centered care
Partner with executive leadership on strategy, growth, and financial sustainability
Support workforce planning, hiring, and leadership development efforts
Monitor program performance, risk trends, and corrective action efforts
Represent New Horizons with community, professional, and state partners
What We’re Looking For
Master’s degree in social work, psychology, or related human services field
5–7+ years of progressive leadership experience in child welfare, residential care, behavioral health, or related services
Licensed Child-Care Administrator in Texas (or ability to obtain)
Experience overseeing multi-program or multi-site operations preferred
Strong knowledge of trauma-informed care and child welfare regulations
Experience leading quality improvement initiatives using data
Exceptional leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills
Strong emotional intelligence, sound judgment, and commitment to child safety
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and data systems
Working Conditions
Work is performed in a combination of office, residential, and community-based environments across multiple program locations. Regular travel between Audrey Grace House in Abilene and The Ranch near Brownwood is required. The role may involve evening or weekend availability to respond to operational needs, critical incidents, or regulatory matters. The position requires frequent interaction with children and adolescents who have experienced trauma, as well as families, staff, and community partners. The environment may include emotionally sensitive situations, behavioral crises, and high-stress circumstances requiring calm, professional leadership. This role carries significant responsibility, involves independent decision-making, and includes representing the organization in community and professional settings.
Physical Requirements
The role requires the ability to sit, stand, and move throughout office and residential program environments for extended periods. Frequent walking within facilities and travel between sites is required. The position involves regular use of a computer and standard office equipment, as well as effective communication in person, virtually, and by phone. The individual must be able to respond promptly in emergency situations, which may require moving quickly within program environments. Occasional lifting of up to 20 pounds may be required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: $120,000 – $140,000 annually
Compensation is based on experience, education, and leadership background.
Why Join New Horizons?
At New Horizons, you become part of a mission-driven organization committed to protecting and empowering children. Our leadership team values expertise, encourages innovation, and ensures every voice is heard. We believe that when we care well for our team, they can care exceptionally for kids.
What You Get When You Work for New Horizons
A generous benefits package currently above industry standards including
Health Insurance
Paid Time Off starting on your first day
401(k) retirement match after 1 year of employment
Flexible Spending Account contribution after 2 years of employment
Paid work anniversary trips beginning at 5 years of service
The systems you build, the leaders you support, and the decisions you make here will directly shape the lives of children who need safety the most. If you’re ready to lead with purpose and keep kids first in every decision, we’d be honored to meet you.
To learn more about New Horizons and other positions that may be available please visit our website: https://www.newhorizonsinc.com/
9uwaw0Ko42
💡 Quick Summary
Seeking a career-building opportunity? The Chief Operating Officer position is now open for candidates interested in the Operations Executive Jobs sector. This role in Abilene offers a professional environment and growth potential.
Requirement Snapshot: Candidates should possess basic communication skills, a proactive attitude, and the ability to work in a team. Experience in Operations Executive Jobs is a plus.
