Operations Director

PURPOSE OF POSITION:

The Operations Director at the Nebraska Writers Collective plays a critical role in sustaining and strengthening the organization's infrastructure to support its mission of empowering communities through creative writing and performance poetry. This position ensures operational excellence by managing financial systems, driving budget conversations, and maintaining compliance across vendor and contractor relationships. With a strong background in nonprofit administration and a process-driven mindset, the Operations Director serves as the primary contact for payroll, oversees multi-funder budget management, and ensures all external partnerships are properly documented and insured. Operating in a hybrid environment, this independent and detail-oriented leader enables the NWC to remain stable, transparent, and responsive to the evolving needs of its vibrant artistic community.

ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Financial Stewardship & Budget Management _ 45 _ %

1. Develop and manage the annual operating budget, ensuring alignment with program goals and funder requirements. Track income and expenses across multiple funding streams to maintain financial health and transparency.

2. Lead monthly budget review sessions with program leads and leadership to assess financial performance and adjust forecasts. Use data to inform strategic decisions and resource allocation.

3. Prepare and submit financial reports for grants, board meetings, and audits. Ensure all documentation meets compliance standards and clearly communicates impact.

4. Monitor cash flow and reserves to support timely artist payments and program expansion. Anticipate financial needs and propose solutions to maintain stability.

5. Collaborate with leadership to evaluate new initiatives like The Generator and North Omaha Writers Workshop. Provide cost projections and funding strategies to support sustainable growth.

6. Maintain accurate records of all financial transactions, including vendor payments and reimbursements. Ensure systems are in place for timely reconciliation and reporting.

Operational Leadership & Vendor Coordination _ 35 _ %

1. Serve as the primary point of contact for all vendors and contractors, ensuring clear communication and timely execution of agreements. Maintain a centralized record of contracts and service terms.

2. Collect and manage certificates of insurance for all external partners. Ensure compliance with organizational policies and legal standards.

3. Negotiate service contracts and vendor agreements that support hybrid programming and virtual workshops. Balance cost-effectiveness with quality and mission alignment.

4. Coordinate logistics for in-person and virtual events, including venue booking, tech setup, and supply procurement. Ensure all operational elements run smoothly and reflect NWC's values.

5. Implement systems to track vendor performance and satisfaction, using feedback to improve future collaborations. Foster relationships built on trust, integrity, and shared purpose

6. Support onboarding of new contractors and vendors, providing orientation materials and expectations aligned with NWC's culture. Ensure smooth integration into ongoing projects.

Independent Execution & Mission Alignment _ 20 _ %

1. Work independently to manage daily operations, balancing administrative responsibilities with strategic priorities. Maintain consistent communication with leadership while driving tasks forward.

2. Initiate and lead budget conversations that center the needs of artists and community programs. Use financial insights to advocate for equitable resource distribution.

3. Adapt workflows to support work environments, ensuring productivity and responsiveness across virtual and in-person formats. Leverage digital tools to streamline collaboration.

4. Model NWC's values in all professional interactions, fostering inclusiveness, curiosity, and integrity. Represent the organization with professionalism and empathy.

5. Identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency, proposing solutions that enhance impact without compromising mission. Document changes and outcomes for future reference.

6. Maintain clear and organized documentation of procedures, contracts, and communications. Ensure continuity and transparency across staff transitions and program growth.

7. Expected to perform back-up duties as assigned on behalf of the Executive Director in the ED's absence.

*Every position at Nebraska Writers Collective is designed to accept and perform additional duties as needed for the success and sustainability of the organization, even when the duties are temporary or non-essential to the employee's main role.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

TheOperations Director currently holds no supervisory responsibilities.

FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY:

The Executive Director authorizes all expenditures of funds based on proper documentation, contract compliance, and Nebraska Writers Collective disbursement procedures.

EDUCATION

Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, Nonprofit Management, or a related field preferred.

Master's degree in a related field (e.g., MBA, MPA, or MFA with nonprofit operations experience) are highly valued.

CERTIFICATIONS and LICENSES

Valid Driver's License and proof of adequate liability insurance coverage for personal vehicle required.

OTHER SKILLS and QUALIFICATIONS

Ideal candidates will have demonstrated experience in the nonprofit sector and a keen understanding of the multifaceted roles that a small organization's team members often assume. To perform this job successfully, the individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed should be representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

• Nonprofit operations experience
• Budget tracking proficiency
• Contract negotiation skills
• Vendor relationship management
• Event planning coordination
• Hybrid work adaptability
• Excellent time management
• Detail-oriented mindset
• Clear written communication
• Confidentiality and discretion
• Independent problem solving
• Mission-driven perspective
• Grant reporting familiarity
• QuickBooks or Excel proficiency

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

1. Hybrid work environment and may require extended periods of sitting, occasional standing, walking, and light lifting.

2. Upper body strength will be required to lift, pull, and push up to 20 pounds on occasion.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• Peak hours March/April hours increase during tournament (evenings may apply)
• Low Travel, 15%
• Company-paid cellphone provided
• Candidate location must be local to Omaha, NE
• Flexible Time Off (no PTO accrual required for time off)

EEO STATEMENT

Nebraska Writers Collective is dedicated to fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment for all. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we are committed to maintaining a workplace free from discrimination and harassment of any kind. We actively promote equality and prohibit any form of discrimination or harassment based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, veteran status, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected class or characteristic as defined by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all aspects of employment, including hiring, recruitment, promotion, termination, layoffs, compensation, benefits, training, and internships. Nebraska Writers Collective makes employment decisions based solely on qualifications, merit, and organizational needs.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $60, $65,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Flexible schedule

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Omaha, NE 68182