Programs / Operations Director

Position Summary

The Programs Director (or Operations Director) plays a critical leadership role in advancing the mission of the organization. Reporting to the Executive Director, this position provides strategic oversight and operational leadership for all programs and initiatives. The Director ensures that programs are designed and delivered with excellence, accountability, and measurable impact, while fostering a culture of equity, collaboration, and continuous improvement. This role requires a visionary leader with strong operational skills who is committed to serving diverse communities and advancing social change through nonprofit programming.

Key Responsibilities

Program Leadership & Oversight

• Lead the design, implementation, and evaluation of community-based programs that align with the organization’s mission and funder requirements.

• Develop and oversee a Program Quality Management Framework that ensures services are effective, equitable, and responsive to community needs.

• Ensure all programs are delivered within scope, budget, and timelines while maintaining compliance with contracts, grants, and nonprofit best practices.

• Strengthen service delivery models to maximize community impact and long-term sustainability.

Operational & Project Management

• Develop comprehensive project and program plans with measurable goals and outcomes.

• Manage budgets, timelines, risks, and reporting requirements for multiple programs simultaneously.

• Coordinate internal teams, subcontractors, and external partners to ensure seamless program operations.

• Oversee compliance with organizational policies, funding requirements, and applicable regulations.

Team Leadership & Capacity Building

• Supervise, mentor, and inspire program managers and staff, promoting professional development and accountability.

• Foster a supportive, inclusive, and mission-driven work environment rooted in collaboration and respect.

• Recruit, onboard, and train staff, volunteers, and consultants to build organizational capacity.

• Encourage innovation, problem-solving, and staff-led initiatives that strengthen program effectiveness.

Community & Stakeholder Engagement

• Cultivate and maintain strong partnerships with funders, community organizations, coalitions, and public agencies.

• Represent the organization at local, regional, and national forums to strengthen advocacy and visibility.

• Engage community members in the design and evaluation of programs to ensure cultural relevance and accessibility.

• Communicate program successes and challenges to the Executive Director, Board of Directors, and key stakeholders.

Monitoring, Evaluation & Reporting

• Implement systems for data collection, program evaluation, and impact measurement.

• Prepare high-quality reports and presentations for funders, community stakeholders, and leadership.

• Use data and community feedback to inform program design, strengthen outcomes, and guide decision-making.

Qualifications & Requirements

Education & Experience

• Master’s degree in Public Health, Social Work, Nonprofit Management, Business Administration, or related field preferred (Bachelor’s degree with significant leadership experience considered).

• At least 5–7 years of nonprofit program management or operations leadership experience, including oversight of complex projects and diverse teams.

• Proven experience working with grant-funded programs, government contracts, or community-based initiatives.

• Demonstrated ability to manage budgets, compliance, and performance outcomes in a nonprofit context.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong commitment to equity, inclusion, and community empowerment.

• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.

• Skilled in supervision, coaching, and building effective teams.

• Strong organizational and problem-solving abilities, with attention to detail.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and project management software.

• Project Management certification (PMP/PRINCE II) a plus, though not required.

Core Competencies

• Mission-Driven Leadership & Vision

• Program Design & Evaluation

• Financial Stewardship & Budget Oversight

• Community Engagement & Partnership Building

• Equity & Inclusion Practices

• Staff Development & Team Building

• Strategic Thinking & Problem Solving

Work Environment & Schedule

• Full-time, exempt position based in a nonprofit setting.

• Standard Monday–Friday schedule, with occasional evenings and weekends to meet program and community needs.

• Benefits include health insurance and other organizational offerings.

• Travel between program sites and community partner locations may be required.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $80,000.00 - $100,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Paid time off

Work Location: In person

Salary : $80,000 - $100,000