Executive Director Of Operations

Warren Wilson College is pleased to announce a call for applicants for an Executive Director of Operations. This is an exciting, new position that will focus explicitly on directing the organization's day to day operations, optimizing processes to ensure efficient utilization of resources to fulfill the mission of the college. Under the direction of the President, and in close collaboration with senior leaders of the college, this role involves providing strategic planning, leadership and guidance to Facilities, Public Safety, and Human Resources.

Candidates who possess a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Operations Management or related field, and have professional experience in a senior managerial or executive role in operations and facilities management, maintenance or construction are encouraged to apply. Ideal applicants will have demonstrated knowledge and experience with Public Safety and Risk Management protocols, employment law and HR functions. Previous professional experience in higher education is preferred. This is an exempt, full-time, benefit eligible, 12-month position. The individual in this role will be expected to work occasional weekend and/or evening hours.

Interested individuals should read further to learn more about the qualifications and job responsibilities for this salaried position. Applicants are required to submit a resume and cover letter, which includes experience working with a diverse range of identities and experiences including, but not limited to, previous DEI training or initiatives. All applications must be received electronically.

First consideration will be given to candidates who apply by Monday, January 8, 2024. All applications must be submitted electronically.

The mission:

Warren Wilson College's distinctive approach to education intentionally integrates academics, work, and community engagement to cultivate curiosity, empathy, and integrity. We empower graduates to pursue meaningful careers and lead purposeful lives dedicated to a just, equitable, and sustainable world.

To fulfill this mission, the College, through its Strategic Imperative for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) is unwavering in our commitment to the dignity of all peopleparticularly those populations who have been both historically oppressed and continue to experience systemic oppression. As we value the breadth of diversity necessary for a rich campus culture, we also recognize the particular challenge and opportunity for growth and leadership around race, noting that such a focus necessarily intersects with deepening efforts around other aspects of identity (such as ethnicity, nationality, religion, gender, sexuality, class, and worldview). We are committed to a culture of educational access and to ensuring that students and employees from a diverse range of identities and experiences will thrive in this community. We seek and support a culturally diverse faculty and staff with a genuine interest in our innovative approach to education and focus on inclusive excellence, as well as a willingness to fully participate in the life of the College. We welcome applications from members of historically underrepresented racial/ethnic groups (e.g., people of African, Latin, Indigenous, and/or Asian descent) and individuals who have experience working with diverse student populations.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Operations Management, or related field.
• Demonstrated experience in a senior managerial or executive role, demonstrating leadership in operations.
• Three to five years work experience in institutional facilities management, maintenance or construction.
• One to three years work experience in human resources, with a focus on employee relations, recruitment, and benefit plan administration.
• Demonstrated knowledge of Public Safety/Risk Management protocols.
• Demonstrated knowledge of employment law and HR functions.
• Demonstrated ability to understand operational principles, process improvement methodologies, and strategic planning.
• Evidence of strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated analytical mindset with the ability to make data-driven decisions.
• Evidence of proficiency in budget management and resource allocation.
• Demonstrated ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and adapt to changing priorities.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with people from a diverse range of identities and experiences.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in Business Administration, Operations Management, or related field.
• SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP certification.
• Prior experience working with facilities in higher education.
• Prior exposure to Print and Mail Services on a college campus.
• Prior exposure to Title IX and Clery Act reporting.

Position Summary

The Executive Director of Operations oversees and directs the organization's operational policies, objectives, and initiatives. This role involves providing strategic leadership, managing day-to-day operations, optimizing processes, and ensuring efficient utilization of resources to meet organizational goals, while working under the direction of the President, and in collaboration with senior leaders of the college. This position will supervise the Director of Facilities, the Chief of Public Safety, and the Director of Human Resources.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Planning: Develop and implement operational strategies aligned with college goals and objectives.
• Team Leadership: Provide leadership, supervision, performance evaluation and guidance to leaders of Facilities, Human Resources and Public Safety fostering a collaborative and productive work environment.
• This position would also have oversight of the College fleet vehicles including but not limited to scheduling, maintenance, insurance, etc.
• The position would have oversight of mailroom and print services functions for the college.
• Operational Oversight: Oversee daily operations of the noted units to ensure efficiency, quality, safety and compliance with regulations and college standards with a focus on inventory management and property control.
• Resource Management: Optimize resource allocation, including budgeting, staffing, and technology, to enhance operational effectiveness. This includes but is not limited to management of space in the dorms and campus buildings.
• Process Improvement: Identify opportunities for streamlining processes and implementing best practices to maximize efficiency and reduce costs.
• Customer Service: Ensuring the highest level of service to enhance the student experience as well as the overall community experience..
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Collaborate with other departments to align operational processes with overall business objectives and enhance interdepartmental coordination.
• Risk Management: Identify potential risks and develop strategies to mitigate them, ensuring business continuity and resilience.
• Vendor and Partner Management: Manage relationships with external partners, vendors, and contractors to ensure quality services and products. Negotiate contracts to reasonable pricing.
• Compliance and Regulations: Ensure compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, and industry standards.
• The work environment is an office setting, with frequent walking around campus to various buildings. This position may perform basic facility maintenance work.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Warren Wilson College is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.