Chief Operating Officer Jobs in St. Louis, MO

Company Overview

Srote & Co Architects is an award-winning design firm, inspiring design that moves you™. We believe that no matter the size or intended use of a project, good design can produce exceptional results. Our experienced team is dedicated to creative, thoughtful, sustainable and budget focused solutions. Historically we have been a niche firm, focusing mainly on high-end residential projects. While residential architecture will continue to be our main emphasis, over the years we have diversified the firm’s offerings with an expanding commercial portfolio which includes retail, office, religious and emergency management facilities. Our firm’s growth has also allowed us to expand our comprehensive services to include structural engineering and interior design teams as well as construction management.

Position Summary

We are seeking a highly motivated, organized, and technology driven Director of Business Operations to take ownership of the firm’s day-to-day business functions, implement scalable systems, and help position the company for continued future growth.

This is a unique opportunity for an innovative business leader to make a meaningful impact on an established architectural and interior design firm. While our Founder and Principal Architect continues leading client relationships, architectural design and the creative vision of the firm, this new position will focus on the internal business operations of the firm, allowing our architects and designers to focus on what they do best.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee the firm’s day-to-day business operations
• Establish consistent processes, procedures, and accountability across the organization
• Lead the selection, implementation, and ongoing management of modern business software
• Develop an integrated approach to CRM, project management, time tracking, proposals, and financial reporting
• Build standardized workflows that can support future company growth
• Manage and coordinate the preparation, review, and execution of client proposals and contracts
• Coordinate recruiting, candidate screening, onboarding, and employee related administrative processes
• Support architectural and interior leadership with workforce planning and resource allocation
• Partner with firm leadership to identify new business opportunities and support strategic growth
• Manage CRM processes, prospect tracking, proposal follow-up, and business development reporting
• Develop scalable business systems that support extensions into new markets, services, or locations

Ideal Candidate:

• 5+ years of experience in business operations, professional services management, project operations, or a related leadership role
• Experience in architecture, engineering, construction, design, or another project based professional services business
• Strong financial aptitude, including understanding project budgets, labor costs, profitability, and operational KPIs
• Proven ability to implement software, improve processes, and manage organizational change
• Experience with CRM, project management, time tracking, accounting or ERP platforms
• Strong organizational, communication, and people management skills
• Comfortable working in a smaller organization where leaders are expected to be hands-on
• A proactive, problem-solving mindset with a passion for technology and continuous improvement

An architecture license is not required. We are seeking a strong business operator who can complement our architectural and design professionals.

compensation & benefits:

• Competitive salary based on experience
• Health benefits and paid time off
• 401k plan
• A supportive, creative environment where your voice matters
• Opportunities for growth as the firm continues to expand

Pay: $90,000.00 - $120,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person