Chief Operating Officer

Description

Join St. Francis–Emory Healthcare , a 376-bed community-connected hospital in Columbus, GA, that blends cutting-edge care with hometown purpose. As part of the ScionHealth network, St. Francis has been recognized and awarded multiple high-performing honors by U.S. News & World Report, and received multiple disease-specific certifications from the Joint Commission, and was a rated Top Large Hospital in Georgia. St. Francis also delivers advanced heart, orthopedic, and women’s care services. At St. Francis, you will experience a culture of excellence where your work directly shapes the health of our community.

Job Summary

The Chief Operating Officer (COO) is responsible for the overall operational leadership and direction of hospital services, supporting the strategic goals of the organization. The COO ensures efficient delivery of quality patient care and oversees administrative functions, financial performance, compliance, and alignment with organizational policies. This role partners with the Market CEO and executive leadership team to drive operational excellence, staff engagement, and patient satisfaction.

Essential Functions

Lead all operational aspects of the hospital, including clinical and support departments

Implement policies established by the hospital’s Governing Body

Partner with the Market CEO in strategic planning and development of organizational objectives

Oversee budget development and financial performance, ensuring alignment with hospital goals

Ensure regulatory compliance with local, state, and federal guidelines, including The Joint Commission

Monitor hospital operations to assess patient population, risk factors, service needs, and efficiency

Supervise finance and business office functions to ensure accurate financial practices

Support department leaders in staffing plans and operational performance

Collaborate with the medical staff, board, and community to meet patient care needs

Attend executive committee, board, and administrative meetings

Serve as the hospital’s Privacy Officer, managing privacy-related policies and investigations

Promote compliance, ethical standards, and adherence to the hospital's Code of Conduct

Ensure safe, well-maintained facilities and a positive work environment

Encourage employee engagement and high morale across the organization

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities/Expectations

Strong leadership and organizational skills

Strategic thinking and planning capabilities

Knowledge of hospital operations, budgeting, and regulatory compliance

Understanding of cost reporting, profit/loss, and productivity metrics

Excellent interpersonal, communication, and team-building skills

Proficient in Microsoft Office and healthcare-related software

Ability to work effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders

Maintains confidentiality of sensitive information

Frequent sitting, walking, and computer use

Occasional standing, reaching, and lifting up to 20 lbs

Visual and auditory acuity required

Office and hospital campus settings

Occasional exposure to hospital hazards such as noise, environmental conditions, or biohazards

Use of standard PPE when in clinical areas as required

Qualifications

Education

Bachelor’s degree in healthcare administration, business administration, finance, or clinical specialty required

Master’s degree in healthcare administration, business administration, or related field preferred

Licenses/Certifications

None required

Experience

Minimum of 5 years of healthcare administration or management experience, preferably in a hospital setting

Prior experience as COO or CEO in a healthcare organization preferred