Job Description

Fractional Chief Operating Officer (COO) – Dermatology Practice (Santa Monica, CA)

Role Overview

The Fractional COO will work directly with the owner to optimize operations, improve profitability, reduce inefficiencies, reduce day-to-day owner involvement and strengthen team performance while maintaining a high-touch, "white-glove" patient experience.

Estimated commitment: ~20-25 hours per week

Key Responsibilities

1. Operational Leadership & Oversight

Oversee day-to-day operations of front and back office teams
Ensure smooth clinic flow, provider support, and patient experience
Identify inefficiencies and implement scalable systems and workflows
Maintain a high standard of professionalism and accountability across staff

2. Financial & Performance Management

Monitor key metrics
Identify revenue leakage (uncollected balances, underutilized schedules, etc.)
Partner with billing and accounting teams to improve collections and reduce A/R
Provide regular reporting and actionable insights to ownership
Use data-driven insights to make informed decisions and drive continuous improvement.

3. Staffing, Culture & Accountability

Oversee staffing structure, scheduling, and coverage
Address performance issues proactively and professionally
Implement clear expectations, KPIs, and accountability systems for team members
Support hiring, onboarding, and training processes
Foster a positive but high-performance culture

4. Systems & Process Optimization

Evaluate and improve existing systems (EMR, scheduling, patient communication tools)
Implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) across departments
Reduce waste (supplies, time, inefficiencies)
Improve coordination between front and back office teams

5. Vendor & Cost Management

Review vendor contracts and expenses (software, supplies, services)
Identify opportunities to reduce overhead without compromising quality
Negotiate and manage vendor relationships

6. Social Media and Marketing

Oversee and improve the practice's social media presence.

Qualifications

Proven experience as a Chief Operating Officer or similar role in a healthcare setting, preferably within dermatology or a related field.
Excellent financial acumen with a track record of improving revenue and reducing costs.
Demonstrated ability to lead and inspire a diverse team.
Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.
Strategic thinker with a track record of successful planning and execution.

Compensation