Senior Director of Operations

POSITION SUMMARY The American Paint Horse Association seeks a Sr. Director of Operations. The Senior Director of Operations will be responsible for ensuring that registry integrity, member experience, event excellence, and operational effectiveness support the Association's mission of promoting, preserving, and advancing the paint horse breed and the equine industry. The Sr. Director of Operations is responsible for the daily operations and administration of the Association and family of brands. Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), the Sr. Director of Operations leads the execution of organizational strategies and oversees the efficient delivery of services to members, exhibitors, breeders, owners, judges, sponsors, and industry stakeholders. Succession Role: The Sr. Director of Operations serves as the Association's primary operational leader and designated executive backup to the CEO, participating in leadership development and succession planning activities as directed by the Board of Directors. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND FUNCTIONS The Sr. Director of Operations provides leadership and oversight for the Association's operational departments, including membership services, registry operations, information technology, human resources, marketing, customer service, event operations, program services (Competition, Youth & Amateur, PBRIP, Racing, Breeders’ Trust, International) and administrative functions as assigned. As a key member of the Executive Leadership Team, the Sr. Director of Operations ensures organizational alignment, operational excellence, financial stewardship, and exceptional member experiences while fostering a culture of accountability, innovation, and service. General Duties Governance and Board Relations - Strategic Leadership and Execution. Partner with the CEO and Board of Directors to implement the Association's strategic plan Membership and Customer Experience - Develop initiatives to improve member retention, recruitment, and engagement. Registry and Records Management - Oversee registry operations and the integrity of official breed records. Events and Competition Operations - Provide executive oversight for the planning and execution of Association-sponsored events, national and world championship shows, youth competitions, educational programs, and conventions. Human Resources & People Operations - Oversee all HR systems, policies, and employee lifecycle practices, in partnership with the organization’s PEO and external vendors as needed. Lead, mentor and develop department directors and senior staff. Technology and Operational Innovation - Oversee the effective use of technology to improve member services and operational performance. Ensure cybersecurity and protection of organizational data assets. Specific Duties Partner with the CEO and Board of Directors to implement the Association's strategic plan. Translate strategic initiatives into measurable operational goals and departmental objectives. Lead organization-wide initiatives that improve member engagement, operational effectiveness, and revenue growth. Develop and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) aligned with strategic objectives. Oversee the day-to-day operations of the Association. Establish and maintain operational policies, procedures, and service standards. Ensure high-quality service delivery to members and stakeholders. Oversee membership services and customer support functions. Develop initiatives to improve member retention, recruitment, and engagement. Monitor member satisfaction metrics and implement service enhancements. Support growth in membership and participation across all programs. Oversee registry operations and the integrity of official breed records. Implement technology and process improvements that enhance registry services. Maintain compliance with Association rules, policies, and breed standards. Provide executive oversight for the planning and execution of Association-sponsored events, national and world championship shows, youth competitions, educational programs, and conventions. Work closely with event management staff to improve exhibitor, sponsor, and participant experiences. Develop strategies that increase participation and event profitability. Collaborate with the CFO and CEO to develop and manage the annual operating budget. Identify opportunities for improved efficiency, revenue diversification, and cost control. Support sponsorship, partnership, and business development initiatives. Oversee the effective use of technology to improve member services and operational performance. Support modernization of registry, membership, event management, and digital engagement systems. Champion data-driven decision-making and organizational analytics. Ensure cybersecurity and protection of organizational data assets. Develop relationships with insurance carriers and apply for annual insurance coverage. Order new IT equipment and the lead software projects. Support the CEO and Board of Directors through operational reporting and strategic implementation. Attend Board and committee meetings as assigned. Present operational updates, performance metrics, and strategic initiatives. Serve as staff liaison to designated committees. Assist with implementation of Board-approved policies and initiatives. Represent the Association at industry events, conferences, competitions, and stakeholder meetings as assigned. Build productive relationships with members, exhibitors, trainers, judges, sponsors, and industry partners. Support efforts to advance the Association's mission and strengthen the equine industry. Promote collaboration with affiliate organizations and industry stakeholders. Qualifications Requirements Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Nonprofit Management, Agriculture, Animal Science, Equine Studies, or a related field is preferred. Minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible leadership experience. Minimum of 5 years of senior management experience overseeing multiple departments. Strong experience in organizational leadership, budgeting, strategic planning, and staff development. Preferred Qualifications Master's degree (MBA, MPA, or related field). Certified Association Executive (CAE) designation. Experience in breed associations, equine organizations, agricultural associations, or membership-based nonprofits. Familiarity with equine competition, registration systems, breeding programs, and member-driven organizations. Experience working with volunteer leadership and board of directors. Benefits 401K Health Insurance Vision Insurance Paid Vacation Paid Sick Days Company benefits are subject to change, depending on the position. #J-18808-Ljbffr