Senior Management

King Baudouin Foundation Hiring Chief Operations Officer to Lead Operational Excellence in Brussels

The King Baudouin Foundation contributes to a better society in Belgium, Europe and around the world. The Foundation supports organizations, individuals, philanthropists and donors working toward the common good, social cohesion and positive societal change.

By The Sustainability Grid Desk

Location Brussels, Belgium

Type Full-time, Permanent

Salary Attractive salary + benefits

Experience Senior Management, 10+ years

Deadline October 19, 2026

The Opportunity

The King Baudouin Foundation is hiring a Chief Operations Officer (COO) to join its Executive Committee and lead the strategy, policy and performance of its operational services.

The COO will oversee approximately 40 employees across the Tech, Digital & Data, Accounting, Property Management, and Grants & Donations teams. The role combines strategic leadership with operational oversight, transformation, digitalization and organizational growth.

What You’ll Do

• Lead the strategy and policy of the Foundation's operational services and teams.
• Manage the Tech, Digital & Data, Accounting, Property Management, and Grants & Donations teams through their respective Heads.
• Translate the Foundation's Horizon 37 strategic vision into operational policies and daily operations.
• Optimize processes, strengthen cooperation and improve organizational performance.
• Coordinate complex cross-functional transformation and operational projects.
• Identify opportunities for AI implementation across the organization while monitoring security considerations.
• Ensure the smooth running of end-to-end operational processes.
• Identify operational opportunities, risks and bottlenecks.
• Provide strategic analysis, policy advice and operational insights.
• Advise the CEO, Board of Directors and Audit Committee on the operational implications of strategic choices.
• Represent the Foundation in relevant networks and partnerships.

Core Qualifications

• At least 10 years of management experience in complex environments at Belgian and international levels.
• Master’s degree or equivalent based on professional experience.
• Experience managing multiple teams.
• Strong understanding of operational management and organizational transformation.
• Fluency in French, Dutch and English, both written and spoken.

Technical Expertise

• Strong interest and understanding of technology, data, digitalization and AI.
• Financial and managerial knowledge sufficient to assess operational choices, investments and priorities.
• In-depth knowledge of areas including IT, accounting and property management.
• Proficiency in Word, Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint, SharePoint and Teams.
• Knowledge of Salesforce is an advantage.

Professional Strengths

• Strong operational excellence and process improvement capabilities.
• Strategic vision and change management experience.
• Cross-functional project management skills.
• Highly developed people management skills.
• Ability to analyze complex challenges from multiple perspectives.
• Strong risk and opportunity assessment capabilities.
• Excellent decision-making and organizational skills.

Mindset Fit

• Entrepreneurial and proactive approach.
• Inspiring leadership style.
• Strong emotional and social intelligence.
• Ability to understand different perspectives and build relationships.
• Comfortable working across strategic, operational and cross-functional responsibilities.
• Permanent, full-time contract.
• Meaningful work with strong societal value.
• High degree of autonomy.
• Open, dynamic and people-oriented working environment.
• Attractive salary and benefits package.
• Group and hospitalization insurance.
• Teleworking allowance.
• Laptop and mobile phone.
• Public transport subscription.
• Ergonomic equipment.
• Teleworking opportunities.
• Workplace in the heart of Brussels with easy public transport access.

Why This Role Matters

The COO will help strengthen the Foundation's operational capacity as it enters a period of growth. The role connects strategy with technology, finance, people, processes and organizational performance, helping ensure that the Foundation's societal mission can be delivered effectively in an increasingly complex environment.