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