Chief Operating Officer

American Board of Neurological Surgery

THE SEARCH

The American Board of Neurological Surgery (ABNS) seeks a dynamic, strategic, and operationally savvy leader to serve as its Chief Operating Officer (COO). Founded in 1940, the ABNS is an independent nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the science and practice of neurological surgery to serve the cause of public health. As one of 24 certifying boards of the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS), the ABNS is the nation’s leading accrediting body for neurosurgery certification, supporting over 6,300 active diplomates.

At a time of rapid clinical and technological innovation, the ABNS is uniquely positioned to elevate education, training, and certification standards for the next generation of neurosurgeons. The organization’s certification process, which includes rigorous written and oral examinations and an adaptive learning tool for continuing certification, reflects its commitment to excellence. Looking ahead, the ABNS aims to foster innovation by integrating research, real-world practice, and education, creating a comprehensive pipeline that spans residency, fellowship, board certification, and lifelong professional development. The COO will drive this mission forward, working closely with the ABNS’s Board of Directors, its Executive Committee, and its Executive Director to implement strategic priorities that foster innovation and professional excellence. The COO will report directly to the Executive Director and also have a “dotted line” reporting relationship to the Executive Committee of the Board of Directors.

As the operational leader of the ABNS, the COO will oversee the organization’s administrative, business, financial, and human resource functions, aligning internal processes with the organization’s mission and strategic priorities. They will bring a collaborative and results-driven mindset and a strategic focus on developing new as well as streamlining existing internal policies and operations to enhance efficiency and support the ABNS's growth. This will require assessing and strengthening internal systems, developing impactful partnerships with fellow medical boards and training organizations, and enhancing the ABNS’s reputation as the forefront of neurosurgical certification and education.

Through innovative strategies, operational excellence, and a commitment to continuous improvement, the COO will help ABNS set new benchmarks for excellence in neurosurgical education and certification. This is an exciting opportunity to join a mission-driven organization dedicated to creating a lasting impact on a field dedicated to advancing science, improving patient outcomes, and shaping the future of neurological surgery.

The ABNS has retained Isaacson, Miller to assist in this recruitment. All confidential applications, inquiries, and nominations should be directed in confidence to the firm as indicated below.

COMPENSATION & LOCATION

It is expected that the Chief Operating Officer will be based in Washington, DC when the organization moves its headquarters there in early 2025. Salary will be commensurate with related experience and qualifications. Hybrid arrangements involving working both at the ABNS office and from home or remote locations may be considered for highly qualified candidates.

TO APPLY

Screening of complete applications will begin immediately and continue until the search process is completed. Inquiries, nominations, referrals, and CVs with cover letters should be sent via the Isaacson, Miller website for the search: https://www.imsearch.com/open-searches/american-board-neurological-surgery/chief-operating-officer

Electronic submission of materials is strongly encouraged.

Stephanie Fidel, Partner

Damla Williams, Senior Associate

Maria Peña, Search Coordinator

ABNS is an equal opportunity employer. ABNS hires the most qualified individuals for each position and does so without regard to race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, religion, age, mental or physical disability, gender identity or expression, genetic information, citizenship status, military service, or any other protected status.