Join Discover Durham as our Director of Operations, where your leadership will drive innovation, efficiency, and impact. In this leadership role, you’ll oversee key functions that make our organization thrive, from Human Resources to Operations and Visitor Center Management. If you’re a dynamic leader ready to make a meaningful difference in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment, we’d love to hear from you!

Job Summary: 

The Director of Operations is a crucial senior leadership role responsible for overseeing the organization's Human Resources, Operations, Visitor Info Center management. This position requires a dynamic leader with extensive experience in operational management, human resources, and strategic planning within a fast-paced, technology-driven environment. The Director of Operations will ensure the seamless integration of various functions, fostering efficiency, compliance, and a culture of excellence across the organization. This position reports to the CFO/VP of HR and Operations. 

Transferable Skills:

 We value diverse experiences and the ability to adapt. If you bring strong operational management, HR, or strategic planning expertise from any industry, we encourage you to apply. Skills like project management, team leadership, and problem-solving are critical to success in this role. Whether your background is in nonprofit work, corporate operations, or community engagement, your unique perspective can make an impact here.

Leadership Development:

At Discover Durham, we invest in leaders. As the Director of Operations, you’ll have access to professional development opportunities designed to enhance your skills, expand your leadership capacity, and position you as a key driver of organizational success. From advanced training to strategic initiatives, you’ll play a central role in shaping the future of our organization while growing as a professional.

Key Responsibilities:

Leadership & Management 

• Lead, mentor, and manage the Human Resource Manager, Operations Manager, and Visitor Info Center staff, ensuring cohesive, efficient, and high-performing teams. 
• Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and results-driven culture across all operational areas. 
• Develop and implement operational strategies that align with the organization's mission, values, and goals. 
• Act as a senior advisor to the CFO/VP of HR and Operations, providing insights and recommendations on operational matters, and serve as a member of the leadership team. 
• Will be a leader in change management for the organization.

Human Resources 

• Provide oversight for all administrative Human Resource activities, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and legal requirements. 
• Manage the strategy for employee incentive and benefit programs, ensuring competitive and attractive offerings. 
• Ensure compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and organizational policies, minimizing risk and maintaining best practices. 
• Lead the focus on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) training as an integral part of the organizational culture. 
• Develop and implement training programs and professional development for all levels of the organization, fostering a culture of continuous learning. 

Operations & IT Management 

• Provide oversight for all operations management, ensuring the efficiency and effectiveness of the organization's operational functions. 
• Manage all physical plant assets, with an emphasis on the efficiency of workspaces and the comfort and safety of team members. 
• Develop and implement a strategy for an in-house system to deliver collateral to hotel and community partners. 
• Oversee the management of existing organizational technology and investigate innovative new platforms, ensuring optimal functionality, security, and scalability while pursuing the most efficient and effective use of technology as an organization  
• Develop and implement operational policies, procedures, and systems to drive efficiency and support organizational growth. 
• Manage strategic initiatives related to the ordering and storage of printed materials, ensuring cost-effectiveness and accessibility. 

Contracts and Risk Management 

• Manage relationships with all insurance providers, ensuring adequate coverage and cost-effective policies. 
• Develop and implement a strategy for the organization and management of contracts and insurance policies, minimizing risk and ensuring compliance. 
• Assist with the negotiation, execution, and renewal of insurance policies, ensuring favorable terms and alignment with organizational needs. 

Visitor Info Center Management 

• Provide oversight for all Visitor Info Center (VIC) management, ensuring a high level of service and engagement with visitors. 
• Provide guidance and support for the use of the VIC by both internal and external partners, maximizing its value and impact. 
• Collaborate with other teams to provide leadership and support for future VIC use initiatives, aligning with the organization's strategic goals. 
• Participate in inter-departmental work on the Visitor Experience initiative and the future of VIC/MVIC operations. 
• Support and guide the recruitment, training, and management of volunteer staff, ensuring a well-supported and motivated team.

Benefits:

We believe in taking care of our team. As a valued member of Discover Durham, you’ll enjoy:

• Employer-paid medical, dental, and vision insurance
• $1,000 annual employer HSA contribution
• Paid parental leave
• Wellness stipend
• Pension plan and 401(k)/457(b) options
• Remote work opportunities
• Free parking in downtown Durham
• Phone stipend
• Paid time off
• A great company culture, including a Fun Committee and Staff FAM Trips to foster engagement and collaboration

Desired Skills and Abilities 

• Minimum of 5 years of management experience, preferably in operations, human resources, or a related field. 
• Experience in developing and managing training and professional development programs. 
• Experience with organizational technology platforms, such as Office365, Dropbox, Asana, Slack, and CRM platforms, with both Windows and Apple platforms. 
• Experience and understanding in facilities asset management, including office space, vehicles, furniture, and IT equipment. 
• Experience managing insurance policies, including employee benefits and liability policies. 
• Expertise in electronic document storage organization and management, ensuring easy access and compliance with legal requirements. 
• Proficiency in managing multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced environment. 
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills, with a focus on continuous improvement and change management. 
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact effectively with staff, stakeholders, and visitors. 

Preferred Qualifications 

• IT certifications, demonstrating proficiency in managing and optimizing technology platforms. 
• Human Resource Certification, such as PHR, SPHR, or SHRM-CP, indicating advanced knowledge and skills in HR management.