Design Operations Manager

Society for Science•Washington, DC

3d•$78,503 - $88,316•Hybrid

About The Position

The Design Operations Manager supports the Chief Design Officer by managing day-to-day operations, coordinating design projects and maintaining transparent workflows across the Design Department. This role ensures projects move smoothly from concept to completion while reinforcing process consistency and brand standards. This is an exempt position.

Requirements

Excellent written, analytical, problem-solving and verbal communication skills
Ability to set priorities, meet deadlines and work independently
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and handle multiple priorities
Ability to work in a team environment
Motivated, self-directed, results-oriented, and customer-focused
Detail-oriented and possesses a desire for quality
Experience in working on distributed or remote teams
Affinity for the mission of the Society for Science
Exceptional communications skills, both written and verbal
Ability to develop rapport with colleagues and external clients
Bachelor's degree required; degree in design, communications or a related field preferred
4–6 years of experience in design operations, creative project management or a related role
Experience with Asana or similar project management platforms
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and working knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite
Familiarity with SAP Concur Solutions or similar accounts payable system
Strong organizational, communication, and writing skills with attention to detail
Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities and vendor relationships
Financial acumen for tracking budgets, invoices and cost allocations
Ability to copy edit and proof materials for accuracy

Responsibilities

Manage the Design team's overall project calendar, milestones and task assignments using the department's project management system.
Coordinate daily workflows, monitor project status, manage stakeholder expectations and address resource needs or roadblocks.
Maintain transparent documentation and recordkeeping for all projects, ensuring consistent application of organizational policies and brand standards.
Provide responsive support to Society departments, helping plan and prioritize design projects to balance team workload and meet all milestones.
Serve as the first point of contact for project-related communication between the Design Department, internal stakeholders and external vendors.
Track and report on project progress, costs and timelines.
Maintain department credit card charges and produce monthly credit card report statements.
Work closely with vendors for estimates, invoicing, contracts and transferring files
Submit requests for payment for vendors, contractors and freelancers via SAP Concur Solutions.
Support the Chief Design Officer in optimizing team efficiency and improving operational systems.
Train internal and external stakeholders in the use of the Design Department's project management tools and processes.
Obtain vendor quotes, process check requests and invoices and maintain accurate financial records.
Assist in coordinating photo shoots and live event support in partnership with the Art Director.
Maintain confidentiality of all records and correspondence.
Contribute to departmental documentation and continuous improvement of workflows and procedures.
Perform other duties as assigned.