Chief Operating Officer

XPRIZE Overview XPRIZE is an established global leader in designing and executing large-scale competitions to solve humanity’s greatest challenges. As a 501(c)3, our unique model democratizes innovation by incentivizing crowd-sourced, scientifically viable solutions to create a more equitable and abundant future for all. Since our founding in 1994, we’ve launched $519 million in prize competitions that are driving more than $31 billion in social and economic impact — a 60x return on philanthropic investment. These competitions not only de-risk early-stage breakthrough ideas but also mobilize capital, talent, and momentum to accelerate solutions from concept to real-world scale.We operate across 5 areas of impact,including:Deep Tech + ExplorationEnergy + Climate + NatureFood + Water + WasteHealthLearning + SocietyJoin XPRIZE to help create meaningful impact as we strive to empower humanity to achieve breakthroughs and architect a more equitable and abundant future for all.Position DescriptionThe Chief Operating Officer (COO) is a core member of XPRIZE’s executive leadership team and a strategic partner to the CEO. This role exists to ensure that XPRIZE’s internal operating systems, infrastructure, and governance are strong, scalable, and mission‑aligned, enabling the organization to deliver bold, audacious prizes at global scale. The COO oversees XPRIZE’s enterprise operations, including Information Technology, People & Culture (HR), Finance, and Legal/Business Affairs, ensuring that these functions operate as integrated enablers of impact rather than isolated support teams. The COO brings rigor, clarity, and accountability to how XPRIZE runs, while protecting the creativity, experimentation, and entrepreneurial spirit that define the organization. This is a builder‑leader role suited for an executive who thrives in complexity, can scale systems without bureaucracy, and knows how to balance innovation with operational discipline.Reporting & ScopeReports directly to the CEO Serves as a peer to Domain Leaders and other executive leaders Oversees senior leaders responsible for IT, People & Culture (HR), Finance, and Legal/Business Affairs Acts as a key liaison to the Board and relevant committees (e.g., Audit, Finance, Risk) ResponsibilitiesEnterprise Operations Leadership Own the design, integration, and continuous improvement of XPRIZE’s operating model across IT, HR, Finance, and Legal Ensure systems, policies, and processes scale effectively as XPRIZE grows in size, complexity, and global reach Establish clear decision rights, accountability, and performance expectations across operational functions Ensure clear and efficient cross functional alignment across the organization Translate strategy into executable operating plans, metrics, and rhythms Finance & Business Operations Provide executive oversight of financial strategy, planning, and performance Partner with Finance leadership on budgeting, forecasting, cash‑flow management, and long‑range financial modeling, monthly and quarterly reporting for the board, sponsors, and internal programsEnsure strong internal controls, audit readiness, and compliance with nonprofit and regulatory requirements Support the CEO and Board with clear, decision‑ready financial insights Oversee enterprise performance metrics and dashboards, insight driven reporting tied to organizational priorities People & Culture (HR) Oversee the People & Culture function to ensure XPRIZE attracts, develops, and retains world‑class talent Ensure compensation, performance management, talent development, and succession planning are aligned with strategy Champion a high‑performance, values‑driven culture with clear expectations and accountability Ensure compliance with employment laws and best practices across jurisdictions Serve as a thought partner to the CEO and executive team on organizational design, leadership effectiveness, and culture evolution Legal, Risk & Governance Oversee legal and business affairs, including contracts, leases, intellectual property considerations, and regulatory compliance Ensure appropriate risk management practices, insurance coverage, and vendor oversight Partner with external counsel as needed while maintaining internal discipline and efficiency Support Board operations, governance processes, and committee work in partnership with the CEO Information Technology & Systems Oversee enterprise IT strategy, infrastructure, cybersecurity, and data governance Ensure technology systems enable collaboration, scalability, security, and operational efficiency Champion thoughtful adoption of new tools, automation, and AI‑enabled systems where they meaningfully enhance performance Strategic Planning & Execution Partner with the CEO and executive team to shape and operationalize XPRIZE’s strategic priorities Build systems for tracking execution, progress, and organizational health Ensure cross‑functional alignment and remove operational friction that slows impact Leaders