ABOUT THE FUND FOR ARMENIAN RELIEF

FAR (www.farusa.org) is a dynamic and growing organization with a Board that is committed to giving hope, guidance, opportunity, and empowerment to the people of Armenia, Artsakh and Javakh. Our 25 programs and 200 in-country staff are focused on our five strategic pillars of education, child protection, economic development, healthcare, and social services.

FAR implements life-changing support through our projects, often multi-generational and geographically dispersed, through which FAR implements life changing support. This work is accomplished by: providing refuge and help to children who have suffered abuse and abandonment; empowering young adults to excel in school and access higher education; and transforming healthcare professionals into medical ambassadors in their communities. We are also a leader in transforming entire regions through our “save a generation” programs such as the over $10 million BCCP Tavush initiative. FAR helps the people fundamentally in a region by building infrastructure that supports a holistic view of life, from birth to education to a meaningful work life experience and beyond.

POSITION SUMMARY

Fund for Armenian Relief (FAR) is seeking an experienced Director of Operations to oversee our organization's administrative functions, bringing at least 10 years of managerial experience in the non-profit sector. This is a unique opportunity to play a pivotal role in driving the strategic growth of one of the most respected Diasporan organizations, with impactful projects in Armenia.

The Executive Director, Operations is responsible for the overall development, execution, and financial management of FAR's programs and operations. Located in the United States, this person will oversee the day-to-day operations of the organization ensuring that all its operational functions are running smoothly and efficiently.

This individual will oversee 25 programs and a staff of 200 in Armenia, ensuring their organized operation and continued success through effective establishment and employee training. They will hold overall responsibility for executing and managing the financial aspects of program implementation and growth, thus supporting the mission of the FAR Executive Director of Development and Marketing..

The successful candidate will be able to effectively develop and maintain broad based relationships throughout Armenia with the emphasis on developing the right framework to ensure the continued excellence and efficiency that FAR has developed over the years.

Board Members are fully committed to these efforts and willing to provide whatever assistance, at any time, as may be needed.

REPORTING STRUCTURE

Superior Relationship

• Designated Board Director and overall, to the full Board of Directors

Peer Relationship

• Executive Director, Marketing and Development

Subordinate Relationships

• ED Operations will manage:
• All Program Operations in Armenia
• Global Finance Organization

• ED, Marketing and Development will manage:
• All Program management staff
• All Marketing and Development Staff
• NYC HQ Office Staff and Administrative Functions

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Oversee the day-to-day programs of the organization in Armenia and ensure that the 25 programs and the 200 people that run them are functioning smoothly and efficiently.
• Manage the organization's financial resources, including budgeting, accounting, financial reporting, and ensuring compliance with financial regulations.
• Ensure that the organization complies with legal and regulatory requirements, as well as internal policies and procedures. This includes governance oversight by the Board of Directors.
• Support the ED, Marketing & Development to build and maintain partnerships with other diasporan Armenian organizations and stakeholders to enhance the organization's impact and reach.
• Within Armenia, build effective relationships at multiple levels within the Armenian government, Etchmiadzin, to build awareness of our capabilities.
• Maintain strong relations with the Catholicos and Etchmiadzin to coordinate where possible on strategic initiatives with shared goals.
• Effectively manage all internal and external resources to perform tasks according to plan and within budget; set expectations concerning performance.
• Estimate time frames, quality and quantity of resources required to successfully achieve each programs objectives
• In conjunction with the ED, M&D, and under the guidance of the Board designee, prepare and deliver status reports to the FAR Board members on all key activities and initiatives.
• Travel as necessary to support operations in Armenia.
• Periodic trips to Armenia and NYC HQ, frequency to be agreed upon

REQUIRED SKILLS/QUALIFICATIONS

• An individual who is passionate about Armenia and the mission of FAR and whose Armenian identity is foundational.
• 15 years of managerial experience as it relates to driving the programs and projects of an organization.
• An appreciation of the cultural nuances and the unique aspects of charity work in Armenia. Ideally, the candidate should have visited Armenia to experience the country firsthand. Having worked or volunteered for a Diaspora-based Armenian organization would be highly beneficial, demonstrating a deep connection and understanding of the Armenian community's needs and values.
• Financial management skills and the many drivers involved in producing results for an organization is necessary. This includes managing financial statements and operational budgets, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements, and implementing financial best practices to maintain fiscal responsibility. Financial in the context of non-governmental organizations would be a plus.
• Effective communication is essential, particularly in liaising with program directors in Armenia. The candidate should be able to clearly articulate funding priorities and ensure that program funds are utilized appropriately. This involves not only verbal and written communication but also the ability to listen actively and empathetically to the needs and concerns of stakeholders.
• Experience in managing teams and resources is essential: in the context of charitable work, desirable. The ED, Operations should demonstrate strong leadership skills, the ability to motivate and empower staff, and a commitment to fostering a positive work culture.
• The ED, Operations should approach the role with humility, respecting FAR's history and mission. This must be accomplished by building upon the existing foundation, in close collaboration with key FAR personnel thereby ensuring a smooth transition and sustainable growth.
• Ability to solve problems and present conceptual information to all levels of internal management and potential donors.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, and ability to confidently interact with individuals at all levels, including the Board of Directors, Armenian Government officials, and leaders of the Armenian Church.
• Organized, systematic and able to prioritize, schedule and perform complex tasks on time and with minimal supervision.
• Undergraduate degree is required, advanced degrees are helpful.

LEADERSHIP QUALITIES

• A collaborative, action-oriented team player who can operate successfully across formal and informal reporting structures
• Comfortable with ambiguity and able to perform effectively with limited detail while pursuing a specific business objective
• Takes responsibility and is accountable for their results
• A sense of urgency and the will to succeed
• A creative problem solver who can view a problem strategically and effectively align solutions with the goals of the organization
• Excellent business acumen, financial and analytical skills
• Excellent planning and communication skills
• Friendly, patient, and a good listener
• Contributor to the positive work environment of a multicultural organization
• Desire to learn, grow, and be coached
• A nice person that just wants to do something great for Armenia and the Armenian People

COMPENSATION

The compensation range for this position is $100,000- $150,000 per annum and is commensurate with experience. A benefits package is included.

FOR CONSIDERATION PLEASE FORWARD YOUR CV AND A LETTER OF INTENT TO:

Garnik Nanagoulian, Executive Director

gnanagoulian@farusa.org