Chief Operating Officer

Crazy Horse Memorial Foundation

Crazy Horse, South Dakota

The Moran Company is pleased to partner with Crazy Horse Memorial Foundation to recruit the organization's Chief Operating Officer.

Crazy Horse Memorial Foundation (CHMF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting and preserving the cultures, traditions, and living heritage of the North American Indians. The Foundation’s work is rooted in a remarkable vision first articulated by Lakota elder Chief Henry Standing Bear, who believed that the world should know that Native American people have great heroes of their own.

While the Mountain Carving remains the most visible symbol of the Foundation’s work, visitors who come to see the monument discover a broader story—the history, cultures, and contemporary lives of Native American people. CHMF operates the Indian Museum of North America®, which houses a world-class collection of Native American art and artifacts representing tribes from across the continent. The Foundation also hosts the Native American Educational and Cultural Center®, where visitors engage with Native artists, performers, and cultural programs that celebrate the richness and diversity of Indigenous traditions. In addition, the Foundation operates Crazy Horse Memorial University®, which provides educational opportunities and leadership development for Native American students in partnership with Black Hills State University.

Located in the Black Hills of southwestern South Dakota, approximately 40 miles from Rapid City, the Crazy Horse Memorial® campus welcomes hundreds of thousands of visitors annually. The Foundation employs approximately 110 year-round staff members and an additional 50+ seasonal employees. Its annual operating budget is over $13 million and is funded entirely through earned revenue and private philanthropy, as the organization does not accept federal or state government funding. 

Crazy Horse Memorial Foundation seeks a Chief Operating Officer who will partner with the CEO and Senior Executive Team to lead day-to-day operations and translate the Foundation’s vision into operational excellence across a complex, mission-driven organization. The COO will help align strategy, resources, and systems across the institution while strengthening leadership capacity and operational infrastructure to support the continued progress, cultural impact, and long-term sustainability of Crazy Horse Memorial®. 

The Chief Operating Officer oversees day-to-day operations across all departments, ensuring organizational activities align with the Foundation’s mission, strategic priorities, and financial objectives while establishing clear operational plans and performance metrics. The role partners closely with the CEO, CFO, CMO (Senior Executive Team), and Board of Directors to advance long-term strategy, manage financial and operational performance, and develop scalable systems that support organizational growth and visitor experience. The COO also mentors departmental leaders, strengthens organizational culture and leadership capacity, engages key stakeholders, and oversees capital projects and facilities planning to support the Foundation’s long-term sustainability.

The ideal candidate will bring extensive operational leadership experience, including a bachelor’s degree (MBA or related graduate degree preferred) and 10–15 years of progressive leadership with significant operational management responsibilities, including 7–10 years in executive or senior leadership roles overseeing multiple departments or complex organizational functions. The candidate should demonstrate strong expertise in strategic planning, operational management, financial oversight, and performance measurement, with experience in nonprofit, cultural, or mission-driven institutions highly desirable. Successful candidates will also exhibit exceptional interpersonal skills, cultural humility, and a collaborative leadership style, with the ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders while advancing the Foundation’s mission and long-term growth. The expected salary range for the Chief Operating Officer is approximately $175,000, commensurate with experience and offers a competitive benefits package. 

The search for the Chief Operating Officer is being conducted by The Moran Company on behalf of Crazy Horse Memorial Foundation. To apply, candidates should submit a cover letter and resume through the secure application portal. Resume should include a complete employment history, including months and years of service.

For the best opportunity of being considered, please apply by April 30, 2026. Questions may be directed to Steven Byers via Steve.Byers (at) MoranCompany.com. 

To view the full Position Profile and/or APPLY, click HERE