What are the responsibilities and job description for the Manager of Program Operations position at Philadelphia Youth Basketball (PYB)?
Organizational Overview
Philadelphia Youth Basketball (PYB) leverages the iconic game of basketball to deliver life-changing opportunities and experiences for young people, particularly those from under-resourced families and communities. Built of, by, for, and with the communities we serve, PYB provides a safe, nurturing environment where young people can develop the skill-sets and mindsets they need to succeed on the court, in the classroom, in their careers, and throughout their lives.
We envision a Philadelphia in which all youth are supported, empowered, uplifted, and thriving. As a leader in youth self-determination and workforce development, PYB seeks to drive sustained, positive, generational change in the lives of young people and our communities.
Guiding this work are six key tenets of our Community Agreement, which are deeply embedded into our culture and programs:
- Trust – We believe in each other and work to form positive relationships.
- Safe Space – We take responsibility for creating judgment-free environments where everyone feels welcome.
- Teamwork – We find strength in our peers and honor every role on the team.
- Integrity – We value honesty and equity, and we take responsibility to repair relationships when necessary.
- Care – We show empathy by protecting the health and well-being of each other and our space.
- Respect – We honor each person and treat them with dignity, striving to treat others how they wish to be treated.
Together, these principles shape PYB’s “bigger than basketball” culture, ensuring that every program advances both athletic and personal growth.
Core Work Scope & Responsibilities
The Manager of Program Operations works hand in hand with the Vice President of Programs and plays a critical role in ensuring the smooth and effective execution of programmatic activities. This position is responsible for supporting daily program operations, coordinating logistics, managing program data systems, and supporting staff in the delivery of high-quality youth development programming. The Manager of Program Operations works closely with program leadership to implement processes that improve efficiency, compliance, and impact across all program areas. This position will report to the Vice President of Programs.
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
Program Operations
- Develop, manage, and support the execution of program schedules, calendars, and operational plans.
- Coordinate space and facility usage, transportation, meals, inventory, and equipment needs.
- Work with families to evaluate scholarship needs and coordinate appropriate services as needed.
- Ensure all programmatic compliance and safety standards are consistently met, and documented where applicable (including waivers, risk management, child protection policies, program certifications, and grant compliance).
- Support the identification and effectiveness of systems to simplify and improve program operations.
- Develop a Program Operations playbook in support with the VP of Program and other braided departments, including drafting, maintaining, and enforcing appropriate standard operating procedures (SOPs) for program operations.
- Build a transportation initiative that supports the execution of our programs.
- Collaborate with the Guest Experience team to support outstanding program receivable collection efforts.
Staff & Partner Support
- Provide training and guidance to both full- and part-time staff on operational procedures and best practices.
- Serve as a liaison between program leadership and community partners/vendors to ensure smooth coordination.
- Collaborate with program support staff, interns, and volunteers as assigned.
Data & Reporting
- Collaborate with Impact & Evaluation staff to support the management of systems for tracking program KPIs, program data, quantitative and qualitative outcomes, and evaluation.
- Support continuous improvement by analyzing data and recommending operational changes.
- Support the generating of reports to support grant compliance, funder requirements, and internal learning.
Budget & Resource Management
- Assist in managing program operations budget, including procurement, contracts, and expense tracking.
- Monitor inventory and manage purchasing of program supplies and equipment.
- Identify cost efficiencies while maintaining program quality.
Strategic & Organizational Support
- Collaborate with leadership on long-term program planning and growth strategies.
- Contribute to cross-departmental initiatives, including development, marketing, finance, guest experience, earned revenue, facilities, and culture keepers.
- Represent the organization at community & tabling events, stakeholder meetings, and partner convenings as needed.
Position Requirements
- Education – Bachelor’s degree in a related field (education, nonprofit management, public administration, sports management) or equivalent experience.
- Experience – 3–5 years of experience in program operations, project management, or nonprofit program coordination.
- Organizational Skills – Strong organizational, planning, and problem-solving abilities to manage complex tasks and priorities effectively.
- Flexibility & Prioritization – Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Communication Skills – Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with strong interpersonal abilities and experience working across diverse communities.
- Technical Skills – Proficiency with program data systems, Microsoft Office/Google Workspace, and scheduling tools.
Preferred Qualifications
- Systems & Processes – Skillset in system building, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and workflow design.
- Youth Development – Experience in youth development, education, or sports-based nonprofit organizations.
- Supervision – Supervisory experience managing staff or volunteers.
- Grant Compliance – Knowledge of grant compliance and reporting requirements.
- Local Knowledge – Familiarity with Philadelphia’s youth-serving ecosystem.
Clearances
All staff members must possess or obtain the following state and federal clearances prior to training and before engaging in any hands-on activities with young people participating in Philadelphia Youth Basketball programs:
- Pennsylvania State Police Criminal Background Check (SP4 164)
- Pennsylvania Child Abuse History Clearance Form (CY113)
- Federal (FBI) Fingerprint Background Check (Criminal History Report), if applicable
- Mandated Reporter Certificate
- National Sex Offender Registry Verification
- CPR/AED Certificate