Senior Director of Operations

About AEO

AEO is the leading voice of innovation for entrepreneurship and small business. Our mission is to create economic opportunity for underserved entrepreneurs by supporting the development of strong and effective initiatives to assist them in starting, stabilizing and expanding businesses. Our research, initiatives, convenings and advocacy shape policy and practice toward opportunity, industry transformation and inclusive entrepreneurship.

Position Summary

AEO is seeking a dynamic and experienced Senior Operations Director to lead and oversee the organization’s finance, operations, technology, project management, and grant reporting functions. The Senior Operations Director will play a critical role in ensuring the efficient and effective functioning of AEO’s internal processes, systems, and infrastructure, thereby enabling the organization to achieve its mission and strategic objectives.

Key Responsibilities:

Finance Management:

Develop and manage annual budgets in collaboration with the executive team, ensuring alignment with programmatic and operational goals.

Oversee grant financial reporting and reconciliation, ensuring compliance with funder guidelines and timely submissions.

Conduct financial forecasting and scenario planning to ensure organizational sustainability and strategic growth.

Manage accounts payable/receivable, payroll processing, and compliance with all financial regulations.

Operations Oversight:

Streamline and enhance operational policies, procedures, and systems to improve organizational efficiency.

Monitor and manage organizational risk, ensuring compliance with laws, regulations, and best practices.

Oversee office administration, procurement, vendor management, and facilities to ensure seamless operational support for all programs.

Integrate operational processes with program delivery to ensure consistent execution across departments.

Technology Management:

Develop and execute a technology strategy that aligns with organizational goals, leveraging software and tools to enhance efficiency.

Oversee IT infrastructure, vendor management, and the integration of systems for grant reporting and operational analytics.

Evaluate emerging technologies and recommend solutions to improve organizational capacity and program delivery.

Project Management:

Lead and oversee cross-functional project teams in planning, executing, and monitoring strategic initiatives and grant-funded projects.

Define project goals, KPIs, and deliverables in collaboration with internal and external stakeholders.

Implement project management frameworks and tools to ensure successful delivery within scope, budget, and timeline.

Grant Reporting and Management:

Manage and oversee all grant reporting activities, ensuring compliance with funder requirements and alignment with organizational goals.

Collaborate with program and finance teams to gather data, analyze outcomes, and track progress against grant objectives.

Ensure timely preparation, review, and submission of detailed grant reports, fostering transparency and trust with funders.

Monitor grant deliverables, addressing challenges proactively to maintain compliance and achieve organizational impact.

Human Resource Management:

Oversee recruitment, onboarding, and support performance management processes, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and culture with employer of record.

Manage HR policies and procedures, including benefits administration, compliance with employment laws, and internal communications.

Support staff development initiatives, including training, mentorship, and career advancement opportunities.

Promote a positive workplace culture by coordinating employee engagement activities, including team-building events, celebrations, and recognition programs.

Address HR issues and provide guidance to staff on workplace policies and conflict resolution.

Monitor and manage employee leave policies, including vacation, sick days, and personal leave, ensuring accurate record-keeping and equitable application.

Qualifications for Senior Director of Operations

Education:

Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Finance, Operations Management, Human Resources, or a related field; MBA or relevant advanced degree preferred.

Experience:

Minimum 10 years of progressive experience in operations management, finance, human resources, technology, project management, and/or grant management, preferably in the nonprofit sector or a related industry.

Proven track record of managing cross-functional teams and delivering successful outcomes for large-scale projects and initiatives.

Experience overseeing grant reporting and compliance, including financial management of grant-funded programs.

Skills and Expertise:

Strong financial acumen, with demonstrated expertise in budgeting, financial analysis, compliance, and forecasting.

Advanced knowledge of operational best practices, including process optimization, risk management, and organizational development.

Proficiency in leveraging technology to enhance operational efficiency, data management, and reporting.

Skilled in project management methodologies and tools, with the ability to define KPIs, allocate resources, and ensure timely delivery.

Expertise in human resource management, including recruitment, policy implementation, employee engagement, and workplace compliance.

Leadership and Communication:

Exceptional leadership and team-building skills, with the ability to mentor and manage staff effectively.

Strong interpersonal and communication skills, including the ability to collaborate across departments and represent the organization to external stakeholders.