Confidential Director of Operations Wilmington, DE · Full time

The Operations Director ensures the effective functioning of our internal systems, processes, and organizational infrastructure. This role builds and maintains the operational backbone that allows programs, staff, and partners to thrive — overseeing operational efficiency, resource management, compliance, and risk mitigation. The Operations Director serves as a central connector across departments, ensuring staff have the tools, information, and systems needed to perform effectively and sustainably. By promoting operational excellence and anticipating organizational needs, this leader enhances our organization’s capacity to grow responsibly and deliver high-quality services to the communities we serve.

Description

Reports to: Executive Director | Supervises: HR Manager & Operational Staff


Position Overview

The Operations Director ensures the effective functioning of our internal systems, processes, and organizational infrastructure. This role builds and maintains the operational backbone that allows programs, staff, and partners to thrive — overseeing operational efficiency, resource management, compliance, and risk mitigation. The Operations Director serves as a central connector across departments, ensuring staff have the tools, information, and systems needed to perform effectively and sustainably. By promoting operational excellence and anticipating organizational needs, this leader enhances our organization’s capacity to grow responsibly and deliver high-quality services to the communities we serve.


Core Responsibilities

Operational Leadership

·        Oversee organizational operations to ensure smooth, efficient, and compliant workflows

·        Develop and implement operational policies, procedures, and systems in collaboration with HR

·        Support cross-program coordination to maximize efficiency and resource sharing

·        Lead continuous improvement of internal workflows, data systems, and administrative procedures


Resource & Budget Management

·        Manage operational budgets and ensure fiscal responsibility across departments

·        Allocate human, financial, and material resources to support program and organizational needs

·        Monitor compliance with funder requirements, legal standards, and internal policies


Risk Management & Compliance

·        Identify and mitigate operational, compliance, and reputational risks

·        Ensure adherence to organizational policies, safety standards, and regulatory requirements

·        Maintain complete, accurate, and audit-ready documentation at all times


Performance Monitoring & Reporting

·        Track organizational operational performance metrics

·        Produce reports for executive leadership, board members, and funders

·        Use data and feedback to refine systems for long-term sustainability and continuous improvement


Staff Support & Development

·        Support program managers and staff with operational needs, tools, and systems

·        Provide training on operational processes, data systems, and compliance requirements

·        Facilitate cross-departmental communication and ensure alignment across teams


Stakeholder & Partner Coordination

·        Serve as operational point of contact for partners, vendors, and contractors

·        Coordinate logistics for events, trainings, and organizational initiatives

·        Stay informed about best practices in nonprofit operations and lead technology adoption efforts


Key Qualifications

Required

·        Bachelor’s degree in business, Public Administration, Nonprofit Management, or related field

·        3–5 years of experience in operations, administration, or organizational management

·        Experience managing budgets, systems, and cross-functional teams

·        Strong analytical, problem-solving, and systems-thinking skills

·        Proficiency with data systems, Microsoft Office, and Google applications


Preferred

·        Master's degree or professional certification in operations or nonprofit management

·        Experience in a nonprofit or mission-driven organizational environment

 


Core Competencies

·        Strategic Thinking — Sets and articulates a vision, anticipates challenges, and develops effective solutions aligned with organizational goals

·        Leadership — Inspires and motivates teams, manages change, and drives results across departments

·        Organizational Skills — Exceptional at prioritizing, multitasking, and managing competing demands with precision

·        Collaboration — Builds trust with colleagues and external partners; fosters teamwork and productive dialogue

·        Accountability — Holds self and others to high standards; ensures transparency in actions and outcomes

·        Resilience — Maintains composure under pressure, adapts to change, and remains solutions-focused


Success Metrics

·        Efficient, compliant daily operations with minimal delays, errors, or compliance gaps

·        Clear, well-documented workflows and systems that are accessible and regularly updated

·        High staff satisfaction with operational support and internal communication

·        Effective, transparent resource allocation aligned with organizational priorities

·        Positive audit outcomes with complete, accurate, and audit-ready documentation

 

Professional Development

The Operations Director is encouraged to pursue ongoing training in nonprofit leadership, financial stewardship, and program evaluation. Participation in professional associations, sector conferences, and peer learning events ensures this leader remains informed, effective, and positioned to drive continuous organizational improvement.


Salary

$85,000 - $87,000 per year