Strategic Operations Manager

Interm - Strategic Operations Manager (12-Month Contract)

Nonprofit Organization

Hybrid | Northwest Suburbs of Chicago | $105,000$115,000

About the Organization

Our client is a mission-driven nonprofit dedicated to ending the cycle of abuse and neglect by creating safe, healthy, and stable futures for children and families. They provide emergency housing, community-based programs, and support services for youth and families in crisis, and are a recognized leader in child welfare, trauma-informed care, and community advocacy.

With a strong history of impact and a current budget of $10M (growing to $15M), this organization is entering an exciting phase of growth and transformation.

About the Role

We are seeking a Strategic Operations Manager to work closely with the CEO and senior leadership during a 12-month period of growth and organizational transition.

This role will be the operational and strategic partner to the CEO helping move high-priority initiatives forward, improve internal processes, enhance communication across teams, and ensure the organization remains aligned and effective as it expands.

It's ideal for a mission-focused professional who thrives in dynamic environments, can navigate ambiguity, and enjoys turning big-picture strategy into actionable results.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Support & Project Management

Serve as a trusted partner to the CEO in prioritizing, managing, and executing organizational initiatives.

Track progress on strategic goals, address execution gaps, and provide status updates.

Lead cross-functional projects, bringing clarity and alignment to complex efforts.

Prepare the CEO for internal and external meetings, ensuring materials and follow-ups are managed effectively.

Board & Governance

Plan and coordinate Board of Directors and committee meetings.

Support the onboarding and engagement of new Board members.

Provide accurate, timely information to support governance, fundraising, and outreach efforts.

Stakeholder & Donor Engagement

Assist in managing key relationships with donors, partners, and policymakers.

Organize logistics and materials for high-level meetings and presentations.

Maintain systems for consistent follow-up and engagement with stakeholders.

Internal Operations & Collaboration

Work with leadership to streamline workflows and improve communication.

Lead planning for retreats, staff engagement initiatives, and organization-wide priorities.

Monitor organizational culture and address barriers to alignment.

Marketing & Communications

Oversee marketing and communication strategies in partnership with internal staff and / or consultants.

Ensure consistent messaging that aligns with mission, brand, and fundraising goals.

Help raise the visibility of leadership and the organization's work.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required; Master's preferred.

Significant years in leadership, operations, strategy, or project management (nonprofit experience strongly preferred).

Solid understanding of nonprofit governance, fundraising, and communications.

Experience managing complex projects with multiple stakeholders.

Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.

Highly organized, adaptable, and proactive with strong problem-solving skills.

Compensation & Benefits

Salary : $105,000$115,000 (based on experience)

Health, dental, and vision insurance

403(b) retirement plan

Generous PTO and paid holidays

Flexible hybrid work schedule

Professional development support

Mileage reimbursement for work-related travel