Director of Operations

How to apply

To apply, please send a cover letter and resume to Kate Gorman at kgorman@fieldandforknetwork.com.

If you are passionate about making a difference and have the skills to drive operational excellence in a non-profit setting, we invite you to apply and join us in advancing our mission. As an equal opportunity employer, Field & Fork Network considers applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, national origin, age, disability, marital or veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other legally protected status.

What’s the job?

We are seeking an experienced Director of Operations to lead day-to-day operations as an integral member of our team at Field & Fork Network. The Director of Operations plays a crucial role in the success and operating efficiency of Field & Fork Network. Reporting directly to the CEO, the Director of Operations oversees all aspects of the organization's operational functions to ensure smooth day-to-day operations and strategic long-term growth.

The ideal candidate will possess effective leadership abilities with a proven track record in operational management within the non-profit sector. You should have exceptional organizational skills, keen analytical capabilities, and the ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders. A strategic mindset and a commitment to our mission are essential, along with demonstrated experience in non-profit financial management, resource allocation, and developing high-performing dynamic teams.

About Field & Fork Network

Field & Fork Network is a fast-growing New York State food and farming non-profit organization that connects communities to innovative solutions that foster a sustainable food system. Our work focuses on four important areas: agriculture economic development, food access, youth development, and healthy neighborhoods.

We strive to live and advance Field & Fork Network’s Core Values of:

·      Equity Minded – We honor unique identities and perspectives with dignity

·      Forward thinking – We turn ideas into long-lasting solutions

·      Collaborative – We incorporate diverse voices and ideas

We are deeply committed to fostering an environment where people feel supported, listened to and able to do their personal best.

What am I going to do?

In this pivotal role, you will lead and streamline our organizational operations to ensure efficiency and effectiveness in delivering our mission, vision, values, strategy, and business goals. Your responsibilities will include overseeing activities including supervising the senior team, managing grants and resources, optimizing processes, implementing strategic initiatives to support our growth and impact, and monitoring and evaluating performance.

• Strategic Planning: Collaborate with the senior team to develop and implement strategic plans that align with the organization's mission and goals.
• Operational Oversight: Provide leadership and direction to all operational departments, including but not limited to finance, human resources, office management, and technology.
• Financial Management: Oversee budgeting, grants management and reporting, financial planning, and reporting processes, ensuring fiscal responsibility and sustainability.
• Process Improvement: Identify opportunities for operational efficiency and process improvement, implementing best practices to streamline workflows and maximize resources.
• Risk Management: Develop and implement risk management policies and procedures to mitigate organizational risks and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Team Leadership: Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and professional development within the senior team, providing guidance and support to team members.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Collaborate with other departments to support programmatic initiatives, fundraising efforts, and organizational growth.
• Vendor and Partner Management: Manage relationships with vendors, contractors, and external partners to ensure compliance and cost-effective solutions.
• Compliance and Governance: Ensure compliance with relevant laws, regulations, and internal policies, maintaining transparency and integrity in all operations.
• Reporting and Analysis: Prepare regular reports and analysis on operational performance, providing insights and recommendations to inform decision-making.

The Skill Set

Ideally, all skills listed below would be within the context of the nonprofit sector or a related field such as public health but we encourage you to consider any relevant transferable skills.

• 7-10 years of work experience with a minimum of 5 years of proven experience in a senior leadership role
• Bachelor's degree in business administration, nonprofit management, or a related field (master’s degree preferred)
• Strong strategic planning and analytical skills, with the ability to translate vision into actionable plans
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively engage and influence stakeholders at all levels
• Demonstrated experience in grants management, financial management, budgeting, and resource allocation
• Proficiency in project management methodologies and tools such as Salesforce and Monday
• Knowledge of relevant laws, regulations, and best practices in nonprofit governance and compliance
• Commitment to the organization's mission and values, with a passion for making a difference in the community

Bonus Points

•  Experience in nonprofit fundraising communications
•  Proficiency in graphic design software such as Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) or Canva
•  Experience with WordPress

What we offer

• Field & Fork Network operates a hybrid model, combining remote and on-site work
• Your salary is supplemented with a competitive benefits package including health benefits, paid time off, and 401(k) employer match
• Compensation of $95,000 - $110,000, commensurate with experience