Director of Operations

Director Of OperationsFor over 33 years, LEAP has worked with children, teenagers, and young adults in New Haven, Connecticut, transforming lives in some of America's most underserved communities. As New Haven's largest youth agency with a growing national presence, we provide academic support, social enrichment, and leadership development through our innovative peer mentorship model. We empower older students (ages 16–24) with training, education, and resources to serve as counselors to younger students (ages 7–15). This approach builds a community with power and purpose while positioning LEAP as a national model for youth development.The Director of Operations oversees the day-to-day operational functions that enable LEAP to deliver high-quality youth programs across multiple sites. This position ensures organizational efficiency, facility management, compliance, and operational excellence to support LEAP's mission of empowering young people in New Haven's underserved communities.This is a full-time, exempt (salaried) position that is highly visible requiring effective interaction and communication with a wide range of internal staff and outside partner organizations, community leaders, educational institutions, and vendors. The position provides ample opportunities for professional development, including training, conference attendance, networking, and on-the-job learning experiences.Reports to: VP/Chief of StaffEssential DutiesFacilities & Property ManagementSupervise the Reception Coordinator and Building Management CoordinatorTrain new staff, and where necessary, existing staff on proper building management (including building opening and closing)Ensure that grounds and facilities are well maintainedProgram Operations SupportSupport transportation needs and field trip logisticsAssist with resource provider identification and onboardingOversee inventory management systemsProvide support to program trainingsSupport communication outreach via text and email regarding LEAP and Q House events and applications; and train other staff to take leadership on this as wellFacilitate Office of Early Childhood inspections and background check processesTechnology & SystemsManage organizational technology infrastructure and systemsIdentify and oversee technology vendorsIdentify and schedule necessary tech-oriented trainings for staffOversee database management for participant tracking and program evaluationEnsure data security and privacy complianceSupport staff with technology needs and trainingCompliance & Risk ManagementEnsure organizational compliance with state licensing requirements, insurance policies, and regulatory standardsMaintain safety protocols across all sitesManage organizational insurance policies and claimsOversee emergency preparedness and response proceduresProcess ImprovementIdentify and implement operational efficienciesDevelop and document standard operating proceduresAnalyze operational data to inform decision-makingVehicle Fleet ManagementOversee maintenance schedules, repairs, and safety inspections, ensuring all vehicles meet Connecticut DMV requirements and maintain current registration and insuranceManage vehicle reservation system for staff use across programs and sitesEnsure compliance with organizational vehicle use policies, driver qualification requirements, and coordinate vehicle replacement cycle planningCross-Departmental Projects & InitiativesLead and coordinate special projects that span multiple departmentsServe as project manager for selected strategic initiatives requiring cross-functional collaboration between programs, development, finance, and operations teamsSupport partnership initiatives with external organizations requiring operational coordination and resource allocationRequired QualificationsBachelor's degree from an accredited institution of higher educationMinimum of five years of progressive operations management experience, preferably in nonprofit or youth services sectorProven experience managing multi-site operationsValid driver's license and reliable transportation with ability and willingness to driveKnowledge of compliance requirements for youth-serving organizationsCultural competency-based experience working in African American and Latino communitiesAbility to physically complete on-site supervision and in-person meetingsPreferred QualificationsMaster's degree in relevant fieldExperience with facilities management including aquatics facilitiesKnowledge of Connecticut nonprofit regulations and youth program licensingExperience in organizations with similar scale ($6M+ budget)Bilingual (English/Spanish)Connection to New Haven communityTechnical SkillsProficient in computer software applications, including Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook), file sharing, databases, and research toolsExperience with Salesforce preferredExperience and comfort effectively and accurately using AI tools to assist with operations, research, and analysisAbility to organize and maintain digital records and filing systems for collecting and reporting dataEssential CompetenciesStrong organizational and systems management skills with strategic thinking abilitiesExcellent problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making capabilitiesExceptional attention to detail with ability to manage time effectively, prioritize work, and meet deadlinesDemonstrated tact and discretion in handling sensitive informationExcellent verbal and written communication skillsAbility to work successfully both independently and collaborativelyAdaptability and flexibility in a dynamic environmentCommitment to LEAP's mission and the communities we serveFlexibility to work some evenings and weekends as needed for events and organizational activities.LEAP is an equal opportunity employer.