Chief Operating Officer

Search for the Chief Operating Officer Woodwell Climate Research Center Woods Hole, Massachusetts

The Woodwell Climate Research Center (Woodwell) seeks a strategic and visionary leader to serve as its next Chief Operating Officer (COO). Woodwell is a non‑profit climate science research center internationally recognized as a leading authority in shaping climate policy and pioneering innovative research collaborations across the globe. The center is home to renowned scientific minds leading the charge for transformative research and the translation of knowledge into meaningful action.

As Woodwell increases its reach and impact, the next COO will be a transformational leader, driving operational excellence across a rapidly growing organization.

Founded in 1985 by ecologist Dr. George Woodwell, the center has grown into a leading nonprofit focused on climate science and policy. Part of the Woods Hole scientific community in Massachusetts, it bridges research and actionable solutions. Over time, it expanded globally, conducting work in ecosystems like the Arctic, Amazon, and Congo Basin. Renamed in 2020 to honor its founder, Woodwell partners with over 20 countries, governments, Indigenous peoples, and local communities to advance science‑based strategies for a sustainable, equitable future.

Woodwell has been in a phase of rapid expansion in both its staff and operations to meet the increased challenges of the climate crisis. The organization is in the early phase of implementing a new scientific impact framework, including an organizational restructuring of its senior leadership team, to position the COO to lead Woodwell’s strategic business decisions and manage the day‑to‑day operations of the center.

The COO will ensure accountability across teams and collaborate with leadership on exploring new high‑impact opportunities. Reporting to the President & CEO, the incoming COO will be instrumental in the effort to scale operations, diversify revenue streams, and strengthen Woodwell’s reputation as a leader in climate research and policy impact.

The outstanding candidate will have a proven track record in driving strategic planning and change management, translating vision to operational reality, ensuring operational excellence and oversight, and demonstrated experience in exercising financial leadership, and expanding new revenue streams. They will have excellent communication skills with the ability to build relationships with diverse stakeholders and partners, and they will bring a passion for environmental issues, and an appreciation for scientific research and mission‑driven organizations.

Woodwell Climate Research Center has retained Isaacson, Miller, a national executive search firm, to assist with this important search. Confidential applications, inquiries, and nominations should be directed to the search firm via their website or electronic submission addressed to:

Pam Pezzoli, Partner

Miguel Santiago, Senior Associate

Melissa Barravecchio, Senior Search Coordinator

Isaacson, Miller